With more technology available than ever (both at home & professionally), it is so important the consumer is educated about what is available to them. Terms like: Derma-rolling, vampire facial, micro-needling, stamping, RF micro needling, are constantly swirling & they can all have a place in our skincare routine, with the right intention. Some major questions are answered below to get to the bottom of micro needling in 2020.
What is Micro needling?
Technically speaking the term Micro-needling is the insertion of very fine, small needles into the outer most layer of the skin, or the “epi-dermis.” Depending on the procedure being done will determine the depth, energy or even solution that is being used. The purpose of the treatment is to boost the skins natural collagen & elastin regeneration process to provide smoother, tighter rejuvenated skin. In the past year micro needling has advanced
Is derma-rolling at home the same as in-office micro needling?
The short answer to this is: No. Some patients swear by using derma-rollers at home. These tools can be okay, if they are being sterilized properly (spraying with 70% isopropyl alcohol after each use) & not treating too deep into the skin. Generally, these over the counter tools are 0.25- 0.5mm depth which can help with product absorption. Please remember if you are using these tools to be gentle with your skin after following with a hydrating mask or anti-inflammatory product. Example:
I recommend consulting with your dermatologist before using a micro needling device at home. It is not always best for skin conditions such as: Cystic acne, rosacea, dermatitis, eczema or psoriasis. We never want to make the skin irritated or throw it off balance. In- office micro needling will of course be administered by a licensed professional to treat skin concerns to not irritate anything. Professional micro needling can go deeper into the skin and even include laser energy for better results!
What is RF micro needling?
A recent study done by The American Academy of Dermatology stated that Micro needling alone could only give a temporary result, the improvement simply doesn’t last (this is referring to rolling or stamping), but when the micro needling is paired with energy like radio frequency can be more successful & provide long lasting results.
How does it work?
When the treatment pulses the skin, the needles will deliver the radio frequency into the dermis, causing new collagen production and tissue tightening. This technology advancement has been a true gamechanger in the world of non-invasive skin procedures. The elastin & collagen building typically takes place 4-6 weeks after the treatment with optimal results usually seen at 12 weeks after the last treatment.
What is a vampire facial?
A vampire facial, coined by some of our favorite celebs, is when a person’s own blood is applied to the skin immediately after a micro needling procedure. In a professional setting this is good for 2 reasons: 1. The depth of the needle in a professional dermatologist’s office is deeper, allowing the serum to get into the dermis. 2. The blood serum, more commonly known as PRP (platelet rich plasma) is extremely anti-inflammatory which helps push the healing process and shorten your downtime. Here at our office we would refer to this as micro needling with PRP.
Who is a candidate for micro-needling?
As far as at home micro needling goes, if you get the OK from your dermatologist and sanitize it properly, go for it. Anyone looking to improve the texture of their skin can benefit from professional micro-needling. Concerns like acne, acne scars, fine lines & wrinkles, or anyone looking for radiance improvement & rejuvenation! Another cool fact is that micro needling is safe for all skin types and can be done anywhere on the body!
Call our office to learn more & book your micro-needling consultation!
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