Microneedling (also known as Collagen Induction Therapy or CIT) treats the appearance of fine lines, hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, acne scars and improvement of the skin’s overall appearance. During this procedure, SkinPen (only FDA cleared medical devise on the market) is used to create controlled micro-injuries to the skin in order to produce collagen and elastin.
Microneedling can significantly reduce and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, traumatic scars and stretch marks – all by simply waking up your own bodies ability to heal & create new skin.
Many of our clients are surprised to discover you can see initial results immediately after treatment. As soon as the deepest layers of your skin are penetrated by the needles, “micro-wounds” are created. This triggers your body’s wound healing processes to heal your micro wounds immediately. However, the most dramatic results will not be visible until four to six weeks after treatment. It takes roughly this long for your body to create new, strong, healthy collagen.
During your initial consultation, we will advise you of when you can expect to see results based on the results you are trying to achieve. For treating burn scars, you may need to wait between six months and a year to achieve your desired results. For cellular turnover and tissue rejuvenation, you can see results in as little as two weeks.
The best candidate for collagen induction therapy is anyone who has not used isotretinoin (Accutane) in the past three months, does not have any open wounds, abrasions or cuts, has not had radiation skin treatment within the past 12 months and is not suffering from an active skin infection, herpes simplex at the treatment site or other skin condition. The best candidate also is neither pregnant nor nursing and does not have a history of hypertrophic or keloid scars or poor wound healing.
Unlike many other laser treatments for skin rejuvenation, microneedling is safe for all skin types and tones because the treatment does not damage the epidermis. It is safe for treating sensitive or fragile areas, such as the back of the hands, skin on the neck and around the eyes. When performed by a professional, the risk of hyperpigmentation is mitigated.
The current condition of your skin, as well as what condition you are trying to treat, determines how many treatments you will need to achieve your ideal aesthetic. For moderate acne scars, you will probably need between three and four treatments. For moderate-to-severe burn scars and stretch marks, you will need approximately five treatments. To treat wrinkles and other signs of aging, you should only need between one and two treatments per year to maintain your youthful appearance.