By Vanessa Smit (Skincare Therapist - CapeMAC)
What is micro-needling?
Micro-needling is also called collagen induction therapy (CIT).
This is a minimally-invasive non-surgical and non-ablative procedure for facial rejuvenation that involves the use of a micro-needling device to create a controlled skin injury. This will stimulate collagen and elastin production in the skin.
There are various skin needling devices available. The oldest technology would be Dermarollers and the more modern technology would be a Dermapen or Derma-stamps.
How does micro-needling work?
As the fine micro-needles puncture the skin, that creates channels or micro-tunnels in the skin. This triggers a controlled cascade of inflammation in the skin leading to the production of new collagen and elastin leading to a reduction of scars, firmness and hydration and improved skin texture.
What conditions can micro-needling treat?
Mild to moderate acne scarring
Surgical scarring
Fine lines and wrinkles
Stretch marks
Pore size and skin texture
Keloid scarring
Pigmentation and melasma
Tightening of sagging skin
What to expect during this procedure?
The skin will be cleaned and a numbing cream may be applied to help with discomfort. The numbing procedure lasts approximately 30 minutes. The cream is then removed and the treatment will commence.
A slip is used for better gliding over the skin. The most common would be a collagen-stimulating product such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C serum or a growth factor serum. At CapeMAC we make use of the Dermapen 4 device. This is a handheld pen-like device with a sterile, disposable tip made up of 12 tiny needles. The pen is then used to pierce the skin.
The Dermapen 4 is a multi-speed device and has adjustable needle depth which means it allows needles to pierce the skin’s layers at 90 degrees and increase the absorption of products. After the treatment, a soothing cream or serum is used to hydrate and protect the skin. This assists in the healing process.
How will I look after the treatment?
Most people experience mild redness, swelling and discomfort. It is most commonly described as ”feeling sunburnt.” The redness lasts between 2 - 4 days, depending on your skins healing abilities. The skin then begins to feel a bit rough to the touch. At CapeMAC we encourage our clients to come for an exfoliation a week after their Dermapen treatment. This helps to remove all the dead skin cells, leaving the skin soft and glowing.
How many treatments do I need and how often?
Micro-needling can safely be repeated every 4-6 weeks until you achieve your preferred desired results.
Below are some guidelines:
Rejuvenation: 3-6 treatments
Acne scarring: 4-6 treatments
Stretch marks: 4-8 treatments
Pigmentation: 4-6 treatments
Most people will begin to see results after the very first treatment. More significant and lasting results will become more visible after 3 to 6 treatments.
The condition of your skin will continue to improve over the next 6 – 12 months after a course of treatments and combining your treatments with the correct suggested home care, will give you optimal results.
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