Can Microneedling Rejuvenate Your Appearance?

The recent boom in the number of people using teleconferencing to communicate with friends, family members, coworkers, and even physicians has made many people even more conscious of their appearance. If you've been contemplating a cosmetic procedure for a while, you may be intrigued by the idea of microneedling—a fairly new procedure that claims to reduce acne scarring, boost collagen production, and make skin appear more luminous. Learn more about how microneedling works and who could be a good candidate for this cosmetic procedure.

What Is Microneedling?

As the name implies, microneedling involves the insertion of many ultra-fine needles into the top layer of skin. This process, which can often draw blood, is said to boost collagen production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and essentially "filling in" acne scars. When microneedling is combined with radiofrequency or light therapy, it can also reduce or eliminate acne outbreaks by killing the bacteria that cause pimples. Those who have recently had their skin microneedled report positive effects similar to those realized through a chemical peel or even injectable fillers. 

The effects of microneedling aren't permanent, and if you're happy with the results of this procedure, you may opt to have it performed every few months. (By that same token, these short-term results make microneedling a low-risk way to pursue cosmetic improvement — if you don't like the results or don't think they're worth the cost, they'll fade on their own within just a few months.) Experts caution on the overuse of microneedling, however; if you have a repeat procedure before the effects of the first one have faded, you could risk puncturing the delicate capillaries around the eyes, nose, and cheeks, giving you a roughened and sun-reddened appearance. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for This Procedure?

Microneedling can have a positive effect on a number of cosmetic complaints, including acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, skin dullness or mild discoloration, and sagging skin. But it's not always right for every patient. If you have problems with blood clotting, microneedling can result in excess bleeding or unsightly bruising that may impact the results. Certain medications can also affect the effectiveness of the procedure.

Although there are "DIY" microneedling kits available, it's a good idea to have your first microneedling procedure performed by a licensed dermatologist or esthetician to minimize the risk of any potential complications. Always check with your primary care physician before pursuing a new cosmetic treatment like microneedling.

To learn more, contact a clinic that offers microneedling.