One of the least known treatments for skin aging is called micro-needling.
I was happy to hear during my training at Harvard in October, that microneedling was listed as one of procedures that had clinically proven results. Its results even surpassed one the leading lasers for skin rejuvenation. Although both had good initial results, the microneedling proved to have longlasting effects and the laser did not. At Clarite, we take this one step further and use topical vitamin A creams in conjunction with this treatment for enhanced effects.
Microneedling is a natural way to stimulate normal collagen and helps for smoothing the skin and treating fine wrinkles. It is also effective for lax skin, upper lip lines , shallow acne scars and stretch marks. Any scarring such as acne or stretch marks cannot be completely removed, but the scarring may be minimized.
Principle of Micro-needling
The needles cause microscopic breaks in the blood vessels below the skin (epidermis). This then releases growth factors and blood platelets. Different factors are released which then promote the production of collagen and elastin. The end result is smoother, tighter skin. Immediately after the micro-needling, at Clarite, we apply a strong form of Vitamin A to penetrate through the micro-channels to enhance collagen production.
What to expect
Prior to the treatment, all make-up must be removed. Usually the patient arrives with topical anaesthetic applied 1 hr prior. We cleanse the skin and procede with the roller. We treat region by region of the face followed by the application of Vitamin A and a sunscreen.
Care after Micro-needling
It is expected that you may return to work the day after the treatment. Your skin may look a bit red as in a sun-burn. Lots of hydration and the application of Vitamin A and C after the procedure is important.
If you have had cold sores in the past, it is important to take your antiviral medicications the day before the procedure until 2 days after.
This procedure will not result in significant effect with deep lines or wrinkles. Botox or fillers would be more appropriate.