MICRONEEDLING
Microneedling also known as Collagen Induction Therapy, is a skin rejuvenating treatment that uses tiny sterile needles from a microneedling pen device to create punctures or microchannels in the skin. This works by activating the skin cells natural wound healing process, stimulating collagen production, resulting in intense renewal, repair and rejuvenation for smoother, brighter firmer and healthy looking skin.
How it works
Below is the wound healing process that your skin goes through after microneedling:
Stage 1: Haemostasis (first 15mins)
Microscopic incisions close within 3-5 mins causing minimal superficial bleeding. Damaged tissue constricts blood flow (vasoconstriction). Platelets in blood start to cause clotting and white blood cells (Leucocytes) flood into the area to prevent infection.
Stage 2: Inflammation (15 mins - day 3)
Skin feels tight, appears red, swollen and sore (like sunburn). Cytokine cells (signalling cells) activate neutrophils (skin healing cells) to initiate the wound healing process. Macrophages (digest pathogens) begin to replace neutrophils as they continue to consume bacteria and damaged tissue. Macrophages release growth factors which rapidly increase the number of fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen)
Stage 3: Proliferation/Regeneration (day 3 - day 20)
The skin begins to regenerate as new cells begin to form. New blood vessels form, providing nutrients and oxygen to the tissues. Fibroblasts multiply and lay down the collagen matrix in the wound area. Granulation occurs by developing new connective tissue and blood vessels. Epithelial tissue forms to create a barrier between punctures and the environment. Clients start to see visible improvements.
Stage 4: Remodelling (day 21 to up to 1 year) Fibroblasts continue to remodel, producing collagen to strengthen the skin. Collagen type III is gradually replaced by collagen type 1 over 6-12 months strengthening the skin. Clients continue to see visible changes.​
The benefits:
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Induces collagen & elastin production
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Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
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Improves scarring including acne, surgical & chicken pox
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Firms and tightens the skin
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Improves pigmentation and sun damage
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Promotes natural healing and improves uneven texture and tone
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Enhances the skin’s ability to absorb products and serums
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How often can I have a microneedling treatment?
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Microneedling should be performed no more than once per month to allow the skin to completely heal. If performed too often it will leave the skin in a constant state of inflammation. A course of 3-6 treatments is recommended.
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After care advice
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Immediately after – apply Hyaluronic Acid regularly with clean hands to hydrate and cool the skin. Sleep on a clean pillow case that evening.
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Morning after – The skin can be cleaned using just water or micellar water with clean cotton pads.
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For 24 hours – It is recommended to stay out of the sun during this time period. SPF 30 minimum can be applied after 24 hours.
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For 48 hours – skin may be slightly red for a few days after microneedling and can feel tight and like sunburn. There may also be some peeling or flaking which must not be picked. Strenuous exercise should be avoided.
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For 48 – 72 hours – Do not use any Retinol, AHA’s or BHA’s. Avoid wearing make up. Avoid washing hair which will expose the skin to shampoo. Avoid touching your face with your mobile phone.
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For 1 week – No other facial treatments to be carried out for at least one week after microneedling.
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For 1 month – Direct sunlight should be avoided e.g. sunbathing.
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Contra-indications
Chemical peels/Recent laser treatment or microdermabrasion within the last 14 days. Pregnancy/Breastfeeding Recent facial surgery or scarring (within 6-12 months) Traumatised, sunburnt, windburnt, bruised, broken skin or recently used a sunbed (48 hrs) Warts, Cold Sores, Shingles, Skin or Eye Infection. Keloid Scarring Taking blood thinners or anticoagulant medication Botox (within 2 weeks) or fillers (within a month) IPL within last 2 weeks Diabetes Compromised immune system Hepatitis/HIV High doses or frequency use of aspirin. Uncontrolled high blood pressure. Please let us know if you have low blood pressure so we can take extra care where needed. Taking prescribed Acne medication, active acne, Ezcema, Psoriasis. For example Roaccutane - wait 12 months. Semi permanent make up within 2 weeks. Skin cancer/Cancer/Multiple sclerosis Use of Retinol based products within the last week prior to treatment. Hair removal (waxing, threading, electrolysis or epilation)/Bleaching/Exfoliation within 7 days. Please let us know if you have a Heart condition/Pacemaker/Claustrophobia so we can check in with you throughout the treatment. Inflamed, sensitive or errupted skin. Moles (raised, irrgular or hairy), Keloid scarring/Open lesions/Cuts, abrasions or swellings/Rosacea/Skin tags will be avoided during treatment. Tanning products used within 7 days before treatment. Please let us know of any medication you are taking as certain medications can cause an adverse reaction in the skin. Allergies - please let us know if you have any allergies.
