Microneedling and everything you need to know to achieve stunning results

By Deepa C. Lingam, MD

With various friends and colleagues flaunting their glowing skin, and countless beauty bloggers proclaiming its benefits, it’s no wonder you’re now a tiny bit curious to learn more about microneedling.

As a cosmetic dermatologist, I have to admit I have nothing but great things to say about this popular new procedure that offers a myriad of benefits with little to no downside. Not only can microneedling be used on all skin types from the fairest to the darkest skin, but there’s also no risk for serious side effects, making it perfect for just about anyone who’s interested in facial rejuvenation.

But first off, what exactly is microneedling?

For the microneedling procedure, also known as collagen induction therapy, we use a device that has small needles on the end of it that produce micro-injuries to the skin, which stimulate the immune system and cause an inflammatory reaction. Once this occurs, there’s a cascade of events, eventually leading up to the development and deposition of new collagen and elastic fibers.

Ok. That sounds nice, but what does that really mean for my skin?

Great question. Microneedling is used for overall skin rejuvenation of the face, and other parts of the body such as the neck and chest, and with a series of microneedling treatments, you’ll see improvement in:

• Skin Tone
• Skin Texture
• Dark Spots
• Mild Wrinkles
• Large Pores
• Acne Scars
• Skin Pigmentation
• Dyschromia
• Surgical Scars

It can really address a range of concerns that patients often come in with, and I will also mention that it’s even showing some promise with the treatment of stretch marks.

All those amazing benefits; there has to be some major downtime, right?

Wrong! There’s very minimal downtime, and that’s one of the great benefits of microneedling. After the procedure, there will be some minor swelling and redness to the face and a little bit of peeling anywhere from one to three days tops, but you’re going to be able to go about your normal activities right after. You can even wear makeup the next day so it’s very “friendly” to busy schedules.

As far as aftercare goes, we’ll apply a topical wound-healing application before you leave the office, and we’ll send you home with a kit containing everything you need to use until your skin is back to normal.

How many microneedling treatments do I need and when will I see results?

The number of treatments I recommend is very much dependent on the issue you’re looking to treat, and I typically tell patients that a series of treatments is ideal to get the maximum results. This is usually anywhere from 3-6 treatments spaced 2-4 weeks apart.  

On that same note, I have patients who just do microneedling on a maintenance basis, and they’ll come in once a quarter or twice a year to just give a healthy look and glow to their skin.

While you’re going to see improvement with each treatment, the end of the series is when you’re going to see the results you’re looking for.

Don’t wait to experience facial rejuvenation with microneedling

Before we go forward with microneedling, we’ll make sure you’re a good candidate based on the concerns you’d like to address, and if microneedling is a good option, we’ll go ahead and schedule your appointment.

When you come in for the procedure, we’ll cleanse and de-sanitize your face before applying a topic numbing agent for about 30 to 45 minutes. Once the time limit is up, we remove the topic numbing and the microneedling procedure begins, which takes anywhere from 20 to 25 minutes.

It’s really a quick and simple procedure, and trust me, you’re going to be amazed at the benefits!

Contact Center of Surgical Dermatology for Microneedling in Westerville, OH
Center of Surgical Dermatology is the largest medical and surgical skin treatment and wellness facility in Central Ohio. Since 2007, our board-certified Dermatologists, fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons, and caring professional staff have provided patients with treatment they can trust in an environment second to none. Learn more about our state-of-the-art Dermatology Center before booking your appointment today.