Micro needling is a cosmetic skincare treatment that can make the skin look tighter, healthier, and more youthful. Understanding the benefits and how it works can help patients determine whether this treatment is right for them and whether it can help them meet their personal aesthetic goals.
What Is Micro Needling?
Also known as collagen induction therapy, micro needling is a skin rejuvenation procedure that stimulates the skin’s production of elastin and collagen. Elastin and collagen are naturally occurring proteins in the skin that provide strength and elasticity. Low levels of these proteins can often contribute to dull, sagging skin and make fine lines and wrinkles more pronounced.
This minimally invasive treatment results in zero downtime. Treatment sessions typically last up to 60 minutes, and appointments can be conveniently scheduled during lunch hours and around usual activities.
What Does Micro Needling Do?
Micro needling produces a long list of skin rejuvenation effects that can make the skin look more youthful and refreshed. This cosmetic procedure has the ability to:
- Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduce brown spots and hyperpigmentation
- Reduce the appearance of acne
- Reduce the size of pores
- Reduce scarring, including acne scarring
- Make skin feel smoother
- Stimulate the skin’s production of collagen and elastin
- Reduce the appearance of stretch marks
- Promote the turnover of skin cells
How Does It Work?
Micro needling is performed using a handheld tool with a small roller at the end. On the roller are several tiny needles that create small puncture wounds in the skin. These puncture wounds, known as “microinjuries,” stimulate the skin’s healing process and the release of collagen and elastin. This promotes skin cell turnover, which means old, dead skin cells are replaced with new, healthy ones.
What Are the Benefits?
Smoother, tighter, and more youthful-looking skin are some of the many benefits of micro needling.
Other benefits include:
- It can reduce common signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles.
- It can improve discoloration and brown spots.
- It can plump the skin and make it look more hydrated.
- It can reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
- It is minimally invasive compared to cosmetic skincare treatments such as facelift surgery.
- Appointments are relatively short.
Who Can Try Micro Needling?
Any adult over the age of 18 can try micro needling, as this minimally invasive treatment works for all skin tones and skin types. However, this treatment is not recommended for people with open wounds on the face, as it may increase the risk of infection and delay the skin’s healing process.
This treatment is generally not recommended for people who have:
- Eczema
- Rosacea
- Rash
- Skin infection
- Any other type of open wound
When Can You See Results?
Most people need between three and five micro needling treatment sessions spaced four to six weeks apart before they achieve desired results. However, the results may be noticeable as early as four weeks after the first treatment.
Patients with fine lines and scarring may not see results for up to three months. Everyone responds differently to micro needling based on factors such as skin type and lifestyle—therefore, the results timeline will be different for everyone.
North Shore Med Spa offers a wide range of aesthetic services, including chemical peels, photofacials, and micro needling. Contact us today at (516) 441-5110 to request a consultation and to learn more about our many cosmetic services.