Many of us know that collagen plays an important role in keeping our skin looking young. Collagen is a protein that supports the health of our skin by minimizing the look of pores, making wrinkles and lines less noticeable, and tightening our skin texture to create a smoother appearance. Unfortunately, our body’s natural collagen production begins to decrease in our 20’s. Great. So, how do we go about naturally boosting our collagen production as we age? The answer: Microneedling. We sat down with Ciara Bickline, RN-BSN, nurse injector at The Spa at MidAmerica, as she explained what a microneedling treatment entails and how it helps to restore lost collagen.
“Microneedling is a procedure that causes controlled micro-injury to the skin promoting regenerative healing. By puncturing the epidermis with fourteen tiny needles, the body goes into healing mode which in turn boosts collagen and elastin. By generating those products, microneedling can treat a wide variety of issues. It is indicated to treat fine lines and wrinkles, post-surgical scarring, sagging/aging skin, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, striae, and more. It is easy to see how microneedling can become a pillar of one’s skincare routine. There is little downtime associated with the procedure and most treatments can be completed within an hour! The process is found to show optimal results in a series of 3-6 sessions performed 4-6 weeks apart. A recent study found that after four treatments, the subjects showed a 400% increase in collagen and elastin!
Here at The Spa, we use SkinPen Precision Technology. This device is the first FDA-cleared microneedling tool that is clinically proven to be safe for all skin types, including those who may not qualify for heat or chemical-based treatments. Microneedling can be performed all year round. The SkinPen is manufactured and engineered in the US and is used in over twenty-nine countries around the globe. So, what does the procedure entail? First, the client is numbed with topical anesthetic which allows them to have a virtually painless experience. Once numb, the procedure can begin. The area being treated is cleansed and SkinFuse gliding gel is applied. This allows the SkinPen to glide across the skin easily and gently.
Each area is treated with three passes. The goal is to induce erythema, or light pinpoint bleeding. The microchannels will begin to close within four hours but can remain open for up to 24 hours; making aftercare vital. Patients should avoid RetinA, retinol, hydroquinone, and other harsh products for a minimum of 48 hours. Avoid sun exposure, working out, sweating, and makeup for 24-48 hours. The skin will be red at first, then pink as it begins to heal. It is comparable to a mild/moderate sunburn. Maximal downtime is 5-7 days, but some patients are back to normal within 3-5.”
Microneedling has become a popular treatment at our Glen Carbon, IL office. To schedule your consultation and microneedling appointment, contact us by calling or texting The Spa at MidAmerica Plastic Surgery at 618-307-6233.
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