• Fine lines
• Wrinkles
• Stretch marks
• Acne scarring
• Pigmentation Benefits
• Rejuvenates and firms the skin
• Delivers more youthful appearance
• Encourages production of collagen and elastin
Medical Micro-Needling, also referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy, is a break through remedy for the treatment of wrinkles and pigmentation, scars (including burn scars, acne scars and surgical scars) and stretch marks. This revolutionary celebrity treatment popular with Angelina Jolie and Demi Moore
Clinical studies have shown that micro needling produces channels in the dermis which sufficiently stimulate the body’s natural defenses to repair and produce concentrated amounts of collagen and proteins to the treated areas of skin. This results in the skins thickness being increased by up to 80% smoothing scars, visibly reducing stretch marks and erasing wrinkles.How does Micro-Needling work
The treatment introduces fine needles to the skin to create microscopic channels. In doing so the dermis is encouraged to produce new collagen and elastin which generates new skin cells. The skin then becomes thicker, plumper and more youthful. Serums that are applied to the skin afterwards are also up to 1000 times more effective as the pores are opened and the product is absorbed deep into the skin.
An instrument that is covered with 12 ultra-fine needles is run across the targeted areas to create small channels in the skin. As the device rolls along the skin, these needles penetrate the upper layers of skin to a depth of up to 2mm (depending on the needle length used) producing thousands of tiny puncture marks or micro-medical needle-channels in the skin. Each channel goes no deeper than the skin layer and will be approximately 0.1mm in width. An even pattern of petechiae (minute hemorrhagic spots, of pinpoint to pinhead size, in the skin) after the procedure is the best indication that the procedure has been done effectively.
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These microscopic wounds, which heal within a few hours, stimulate the skin’s healing process and increase collagen and elastin production. The effect is similar to fractional laser treatments, but not as deeply penetrating. Micro-needling is gentle enough to stimulate collagen production without producing scar tissue or increasing pigmentation.
Micro-needling is an effective way to naturally renew the appearance and texture of your skin while providing correction of concerns like stretch marks and acne scars. Also called “collagen induction therapy,” micro-needling gives our clients skin rejuvenation through enhanced skin tone and smoother texture, with no downtime.
What does micro-needling help?
Medical micro-needling can be used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face and body by treating:
• Wrinkles and fine lines
• Sagging, thin skin
• Scars from acne, chicken pox, burns, and surgery
• Stretch marks
• Cellulite
• Photo-damage
• Dilated Pores
To help our clients attain a naturally refreshed appearance, we also combine micro-needling with other non-invasive treatments through a practice called “combineese.” Popular micro-needling combination treatments include removing skin tags, moles and benign growths, neuromodulatores (Botox, Xeomine, Dysport) to smooth out dynamic wrinkles, fillers and volumizers to lift wrinkles, folds and laxity. This leaves our clients with a younger, more refreshed appearance.
For the most severe cases, we offer our exclusive micro-needling procedure that reduces scar appearance and stimulates new collagen growth at a dermal level. New collagen fibers can elevate the depressed scar tissue. An improved blood supply (neo-angiogenesis) into the previous fibrotic scar tissue acts to harmonize and blend the pigmentation with the periphery skin.
Post acne facial scarring can be psychologically devastating and patients frequently suffer from low self-esteem. Facial scarring has always been a challenge to treat. Microdermabrasion is ineffective for deep scarring and laser resurfacing can be expensive and associated with longer down time. In one study, 34 out of 36 patients showed significant reduction in their level of scarring. 80% of patients rated their treatment as excellent on a 10 point scale. No significant adverse effects were noted in any of the patients.
What can I expect?
We begin by applying a topical anesthetic to the treatment areas for enhanced comfort if the client choses. After about 30 minutes when the anesthetic has taken effect, we perform the treatments by running the roller back and forth over the skin. Make up can be applied four hours after treatment. Most people begin to notice improvements within soon after their first treatment.
Is there downtime after micro-needling treatments?
Most people experience no downtime after micro-needling treatments. Some people have initial redness similar to a mild sunburn for a day or two, which can easily be covered with makeup.
How many treatments will I need?
Most people require a series of 4 to 5 treatments, usually spaced at least 4 weeks apart.
How much does micro-needling cost?
Typical prices at local spas are $300-$350 for the face. $300-$450 for the chest. Packages of $475-$1000 for all 3 areas per session (face, neck, and chest). Call us at (818) 990-8008 for free consultation and package pricing
What is the principal behind Micro-Needling?
As mentioned previously, micro-needling is a form of Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT). The idea behind CIT is similar to that of many other non-surgical skin-tightening procedures in that it aims to create a controlled injury underneath the skin’s surface, thereby inducing the body to respond through the formation of new tissue layers of elastin- and collagen fibres (neo-collagenesis) as well as new capillaries for an improved blood supply (neo-angiogenesis) in the treated area. The skin plumps and thickens in response to this stimulus, ultimately reducing the appearance of scars, and fine lines and other skin texture changes. In addition to CIT, the channels made from the micro-needles allow topical gels and creams to be absorbed more effectively through the top layer of skin.
What are the effects of Micro-Needling on the skin?
It improves the thickness of the dermis as well as the epidermis. This in return improves skin texture and reduces wrinkles. It also has a positive effect on hyper-pigmentation as well as on hypo-pigmentation. Disfiguring scars, especially acne scars, can many times be improved. New collagen fibres can elevate the depressed scar tissue. An improved blood supply (neo-angiogenesis) into the previous fibrotic scar tissue harmonise and blends the pigmentation with the periphery skin.
How does it compare with other skin treatments?
As already mentioned, medical micro-needling is a non-ablative treatment does not remove the top layer of skin. Alternatives are the ablative skin treatments such as lasers, chemical peels and dermabrasion which do remove the top layer of skin and subsequently have more down time and associated side effects and possible risks. However, in situations where the top layer of skin is more obviously affected with more severe changes in color, wrinkles and quality of skin, then ablative treatments may be indicated and preferred over non ablative skin treatments.
Which areas of the body and face can I do?
Unlike ablative procedures which are mainly used for facial skin, the Medical Micro-needling can be used on all skin parts of the body (neck, décolleté, arms, leg, hands) and face.
How long does the treatment take?
In general the whole procedure takes between 20-30 minutes depending on the area treated.
What is the down time after a Microneedling treatment?
Recovery after this treatment depends on the length and density of the needles of the rollers used. The skin will be pink or red in appearance for 24-48 hours, much like a sunburn with some minor bleeding and very occasionally some mild bruising. The skin may also feel warm, tight and itchy for a short while. Generally the inflammatory reaction of the skin is overall usually short and fades significantly after a couple of days on average, depending on the skin color of the individual. Occasionally the patient might have peeling if a more aggressive treatment is performed. Patients with a more sensitive skin type or older patients may take upwards of one week to fully recover.
Are there any side effects or risks from this procedure?
Side effects and risks are minimal with this type of treatment and typically include minor flaking or dryness of the skin, with some mild scab formation in rare circumstances. Infections are extremely rare. Since the tiny pricking channels close within minutes, and provided the procedure is done under clinical conditions, post-op infections are very unlikely. As this is a non-ablative treatment hyperpigmentation or darkening of the skin area treated is highly unlikely but can very rarely occur. This is usually temporary and subsides after the first couple of months. Suitable make-up will be able to conceal this if necessary. If you have a history of cold sores, then this could possibly flare up after the treatment. Please advise us accordingly. We may need to prescribe appropriate anti-viral medication prior to treatment.
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What should I do after the treatment?
Post treatment advice may include:
Using tepid water to cleanse the face for the first 48 hours following treatment and drying the area gently without rubbing.
Ensuring that your hands are always clean when touching the area treated to avoid any infections.
Avoid applying make products for the first 12 hours following treatment although we will advise you when, what and how to apply some mineral based make up products
A mild hyaluronic acid moisturizer is recommended.
Optimally it would be good to use a home based cosmetic derma roller 2-3 times a week in conjunction with an appropriate regime of topical skin care products. We will advise you accordingly.
When will I see the results of the treatment?
It can take between 6- 8 weeks before visible signs of skin regeneration are seen and the process will continue to evolve over the ensuing 6-10 months providing a gradual improvement. Although a single treatment can provide a noticeable result, ideally however a series of 2-3 treatments spaced about 4-8 weeks apart, is recommended to achieve optimal results.
How often can I do treatments with Micro-needling?
As often as required, but with a minimum separation time of 4 to 8 weeks between treatments.
Who should not undergo this procedure?
It is not suitable for patients who:
Have used Accutane (isotretinoin) within the last 3 months.
Have open wounds, cuts or abrasions on the skin.
Have had radiation treatment to the skin within the last year.
Have any kind of current skin infection, condition, herpes simplex in the area to be treated.
Are pregnant or are breast feeding.
Have any history of keloid or hypertrophic scars or poor wound healing.
