Microneedling is a popular skincare treatment that is safe for almost all patients and can treat a wide variety of skin concerns. Microneedling treatment can be further customized with other procedures (for instance Botox in Kelowna) at Cerulean Medical Institute. Here is everything you need to know about how to combine other cosmetic treatments with microneedling.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a form of collagen induction therapy, or a treatment that stimulates collagen production to rejuvenate the skin. Collagen is one of two proteins in the skin that gives it firm texture and tone. Natural skin aging, sun exposure, and other environmental stressors gradually cause collagen production to slow and skin tissues to break down. This results in wrinkling, sagging, and the development of skin blemishes.
This treatment uses a device equipped with multiple tiny needles that create microchannels on the skinโs surface. The bodyโs natural healing response is triggered, and a key component of that wound healing is the production of new collagen. As new collagen grows and healthy skin is resurfaced, damaged skin cells and skin blemishes on the surface of the skin are covered up. The skin regains a smooth, even texture and tone.
The healing response also improves blood circulation which oxygenates the skin and allows nutrients to be more easily transported to the treatment area. Patients can expect both immediate and long-term improvements in their skin health and appearance. Although microneedling will not stop skin aging, it will slow it down with the addition of new collagen growth.
What is Microneedling Used to Treat?
Microneedling treatment can target almost any surface skin condition. Conditions treated include the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, and rough skin texture. It can also be used on other areas of the body for conditions like hair loss and stretch marks.
Who is a Candidate for Microneedling?
We generally recommend this treatment for patients who are above eighteen years old and in overall good health. Most skin types and skin tones can benefit from this cosmetic treatment. However, patients with active skin infections (including acne breakouts) or those with sensitive skin and conditions like eczema might not be candidates. At your consultation, Dr. Chetty will discuss these requirements in greater detail to ensure this is best for you.
Treatment Recovery
Microneedling technically creates microchannels in the skin, however these channels are microscopic and require minimal downtime. Patients can return to work or other activities the day after treatment. Mild skin redness and swelling may occur in the treatment area, but these effects will only last a few days at most. Makeup can be worn 3-4 days after a procedure, once the tiny puncture wounds have healed.
Results will gradually improve for a few weeks as collagen growth and tissue regeneration resurfaces the skin. You will see improved skin tone, complexion and an overall rejuvenated appearance. Results can be built upon with additional treatments scheduled a few weeks apart.
What Treatments Can be Combined with Microneedling?
Multiple other skin rejuvenation treatments often work well together to simultaneously target different skin conditions.
Radiofrequency Energy and Microneedling
RF microneedling (radiofrequency microneedling) is one of the most popular treatment combinations. RF energy generates heat to encourage additional tissue regeneration for an added skin-tightening effect. Itโs a great option for patients with mild to moderate skin sagging who want to rejuvenate a more youthful appearance.
Chemical Peels and Microneedling
Getting a chemical peel about 4-6 weeks before your treatment can better prepare the skin. Think of a chemical peel as the initial exfoliation that strips away the top layer of damaged skin cells. Following a skin peel with microneedling will allow deeper layers of skin to be regenerated.
Facials and Microneedling
Applying serums and topical skincare products after microneedling maximizes their effectiveness. Topical serums can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin through the microchannels created by the device. At Cerulean Medical Institute, we offer a variety of medical-grade, dermatologist-approved skincare products with quality ingredients that will maintain your skin health.
Lasers and Microneedling
Laser and light treatments, including IPL (intense pulsed light), can be used to boost the effects of your microneedling treatment. IPL is a great treatment to have in combination with the treamtnet because it targets sun damage and hyperpigmentation on the surface layer of the skin. However, you will have to wait up to four weeks to receive laser treatments since new skin takes time to resurface after microneedling. Everyoneโs skin heals differently so Dr. Chetty can give you a better idea about when it is safe to receive a laser treatment at your consultation.
Microneedling and Botox
Botox can be used after to target fine lines around the eyes (crowโs feet), frown lines and forehead wrinkles. Botox can also target other conditions like a gummy smile, jawline slimming, overactive mentalis chin muscle and migraines. Botox can be performed after microneedling for a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
Schedule a Consultation
At Cerulean Medical Institute, our goal is to help you achieve healthy skin and a beautifully rejuvenated appearance. Call our Kelowna office on (778)760-5050 to schedule your consultation today.