What is Microneedling: Types, Cost, and FAQs

What is Microneedling: Types, Cost, and FAQs

Being that microneedling has the word “needle” in the same, you may be leery about giving it a try. The good news is that microneedling is not as scary as it seems. Not only does this minimally invasive procedure come with numbing cream, it is also more beneficial than your basic medical spa facial. Whether you are considering having a microneedling treatment done or simply have questions about what is involved, this article will go into everything you need to know.

What is Microneedling?

Did you know that microneedling or collagen induction therapy (also known as Rejuvapen or Dermapen) has been practiced for many years around the world? Though the form may have been different, microneedling is a long-standing technique that is seen in many skin care techniques. Essentially, a small tool with tiny needles is used to puncture the top layer of the skin.

There are different kinds of microneedling available, depending on the results you want and your skin type. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, microneedling jump starts the skin’s natural healing process, reducing the appearance of fine lines, dark spots, and cellulite. In a 2021 scientific review, it was also suggested that microneedling may assist with hair growth in patients with alopecia.

What Are The Benefits of Microneedling?

Microneedling has become a popular skin care treatment, as it can be adjusted to your individual needs.

Here are some benefits of microneedling:

  • Reduced appearance of scars, including scars from acne
  • Decreased pore size
  • Less visible fine lines and wrinkles
  • Improved skin elasticity
  • More even skin tone
  • Corrected hyperpigmentation
  • Increased hair growth

How Does Microneedling Work?

As mentioned earlier, microneedling involves micro-puncturing the skin with tiny sterilized stainless steel needles. The skin will react to these injuries the same way it would a major wound—by increasing collagen production. Essentially, the needles are stimulating your skin to develop collagen and elastin in the damaged areas. Once your skin has recovered, it will look smoother, brighter, and healthier than before.

What Are The Different Microneedling Treatments Available?

There are varying levels of microneedling that you can get, some more aggressive than others.

Original Microneedling

A general collagen induction treatment that includes the roller with tiny needles attached. The device is rolled over the skin, opening small punctures that will bleed slightly. These punctures are not cleaned right away, as the blood contains growth factors necessary for healing.

Microneedling and PRP (Vampire Treatments)

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) has been nicknamed the “vampire treatment,” because it involves using your own blood to boost your skin’s health. During the microneedling treatment, the PRP that is extracted from your blood will be injected into the targeted area, boosting collagen production even further.

Radio Frequency Microneedling

Partnering radio frequency with microneedling is another way to enhance results. With this combination, RF bursts are sent through the needles as they pierce the skin. This increases the effect of the microneedling and also promotes greater skin tightening effects. Because RF and microneedling is so efficient, you can reduce the number of sessions needed to get the results that you want.

Radio Frequency Microneedling and Fractional CO2 Laser Therapy

During radio frequency microneedling, your skin can also be treated with fractional CO2 laser therapy. The fractional CO2 laser is used predominantly for skin resurfacing, which targets deeper layers of skin to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as other signs of aging. If you are interested in combining microneedling and laser therapy together, please consult with your trusted skincare specialist, as this results in significant downtime.

How Long Does a Microneedling Procedure Take?

From start to end, a microneedling session takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your treatment plan. At the beginning of the microneedling session, a topical numbing cream is applied to your freshly cleaned face. This generally takes about 10-20 minutes to sit in. Afterwards, the doctor applies a serum that will promote healing and skin repair.

Once your skin has been prepped for the procedure, the technician or doctor will come in. The microneedling pen is slowly passed back and forth over your face or other regions of the body. This “needles in” the serum.

When the needling part is finished, another layer of serum is applied, then a mask that will let everything soak in. You will be given aftercare instructions on your way out of the office.

How Much Does Microneedling Cost?

The cost of microneedling depends on the extent of the treatment, as well as other factors. Most often, a single session will cost between $200 and $800. However, if you need a light session, such as one for maintenance, it may only be $150.

Being that microneedling is considered a cosmetic procedure, it is not commonly covered by health insurance. Some clinics and medical spas will offer financing options to make microneedling more affordable. Be sure to discuss your options, as there is always a way to achieve your aesthetic goals.

How Often Should I Get Microneedling Done?

That depends on the severity of your skin or the signs of aging you wish to tackle. If your skin is in good condition, then microneedling is recommended every 3-6 months. However, if you have extensive acne scarring, then 4-6 months is more appropriate. Discuss how often you should get a touch up with your skincare specialist, as every case is different.

Book Your Skincare Consultation Today!

If you wish to combat signs of aging, as well as scarring and hyperpigmentation, microneedling is one of the best methods to go about it. This minimally invasive procedure uses your body’s natural healing abilities to its advantage, boosting collagen production so your skin looks younger and smoother than before. Interested in giving microneedling a try? Contact the caring and experienced team at DrSkin Medical Spa today. You’re going to love the way you look.