Facts About Medical Microneedling | by Kendra Clark
The application of topical tretinoin , platelet-rich plasma ( PRP ), or ascorbic acid ( Vitamin C ) during the microneedling procedure is a common adjunctive treatment for acne scarring and skin rejuvenation .
Understanding the potential for future modalities using microneedling offers an array of options that exceed the initial expectation of skin rejuvenation and scar remodeling .
Microneedling is relatively safe to use in darker skinned patients , especially with Fitzpatrick ’ s IV and V skin types . It rarely leads to hyperpigmentation , unlike other ablative and resurfacing procedures . Microneedling offers a more favorable safety profile with regard to the risk of dyspigmentation in all skin types .
The medical microneedling procedure is often performed under topical anesthesia for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour . After preparation of the area with antiseptic , the skin is stretched with one hand , while the other hand applies gentle pressure using the needles as a guide . The technique itself is unique to the device used and other considerations – electric versus manual , indications , skin integrity , past medical history of the patient , and area ( s ) treated .
Another important aspect of medical microneedling is the diversity of needle lengths . The length of needle selected for an individual patient depends upon the indication for microneedling . For treating acne and other scars , a needle length of 1.5 – 2 mm is often used . When microneedling is used as a procedure to treat skin laxity and wrinkles , a needle length of 0.5 mm or 1.0 mm is usually recommended . The treatment endpoint is identified as uniform pinpoint bleeding , which is easily controllable .
Post-procedure care includes keeping the treated area moist with saline , and ice packs can be used for patient comfort . Thereafter , patients should be advised to use sunscreen regularly and follow sun-protective measures .
Although post-procedure effects vary depending on the treatment performed , number of passes , needle length , etc ., the procedure is well-tolerated by most patients . There are usually no post-treatment sequelae except for slight erythema and edema lasting for approximately two to three days , followed by minimal peeling for two to five days . There is no formal downtime , and the patient most likely can resume work the following day . Often the practitioner will routinely provide a detailed protocol and summary of aftercare expectations .
Practicing Safe Post-Procedure Habits :
1 . A gentle cleanser and tepid water to cleanse the face for 72 hours post-treatment , and then gently drying the treated skin is recommended . Consider postponing the use of powered cleansing brushes for at least one week after treatment .
2 . Heal the skin by applying serum antioxidants post-treatment , as the properties are ideal for helping heal the skin via soothing and lessening irritation .
3 . Hydrate the treatment area . Hyaluronic acid is an exceptional hy-
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