My first love for skincare and appreciation for skincare aesthetics, has given me the desire to help others achieve the same. Furthering my studies in many fields with skincare being my passion.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling is a skin repair and rejuvenation treatment that uses a mechanical device with multiple tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. The aim is to stimulate the body's natural wound-healing process and collagen production, which is why microneedling is also known as "collagen induction therapy."
Increased cell turnover and new collagen and elastin fibres treat skin issues like acne scars, wrinkles, sagging skin, stretch marks, and discoloration.
But to really understand and appreciate why this is such an effective anti-ageing treatment, we need to take a look at the history and evolution of microneedling.
Microneedling was first recorded in the 1990's by Dermatologist, Ernst Kromayer in Germany using a technique involving the use of rotating wheels and rasps which helped treat acne scars, keratoses and hyperpigmentations of the skin.
In 1905 we have the first known microneedle with an electric motor used . He used this technique to treat birthmarks, hyperpigmentation and scars. In 1996, a Canadian plastic surgeon discovered that puncturing skin with tattoo needles results in improved facial scar tissue, and that same year, another plastic surgeon introduced a needling device that he used to stimulate collagen production in his patients. This particular doctor, Dr. Des Fernandes, is the pioneer of this skin needling technique that is now known as the safest and most effective way to bring life back into our skin. Professor Horst Liebl was the microneedling inventor (Nicole Galan, 2019).
From the simple dermaroller, microneedling has evolved over the last two decades to include new technologies.
Various notable advancements encompass:
a) Home-care Dermarollers
Home care derma rollers, as the name suggests, are used by patients themselves in the comfort of their own homes.
Dermarolling works by creating microscopic wounds that induce collagen and elastin production. Collagen is the most abundant protein found in the human body and is responsible for holding together connective tissue like skin, muscles, tendons, cartilage, and bones.
It’s believed that collagen production slows down as you age, which translates to skin thinning and impaired barrier function.
Despite how alarming dermarolling may seem, it’s actually considered a minimally invasive procedure with little to no downtime. However, the recovery process does depend largely on the length of the needles used.
The next point you need to consider is the needle size. We strongly advise you to only use needles with a depth of 0.3 mm or less.
The frequency of derma roller use is influenced by the needle length. Discover the maximum applications possible within a specific time frame. Note: longer needles mean deeper wounds and extended recovery.
| 0.25 mm | every 4th day |
| 0.5 mm | 1 - 2 times a week (starting with less) |
| 1.0 mm | every 14 days |
| 1.5 mm | once every 4 weeks |
| 2.0 mm | every 6 weeks (always go to professional) |
b) Dermastamps
What is a Dermastamp?
It causes vertical penetration to create infusion channels in the skin and is considered ideal for use on isolated scars and wrinkles. Similar to the home dermaroller, the derma stamp can be used in the comfort of your own home
Miniature dermarollers come in various needle lengths (0.2-3 mm) with a diameter of 0.12 mm. Derma stamps target localized scars like varicose scars, offering precise treatment for individual scars.
These stamps were further revolutionized and evolved into an adjustable stamp, which has the option to choose which depth needle is preferred. There is continuous development on these devices, from flat heads (DRS 140A), to curved headed adjustable stamps (Bio Needle 120)
c) Microneedling Pens (Dr Pens)
Dr Pen enhances skin texture and tone using a handheld microneedling device, suitable for home or clinic use. These are mainly professional devices or used by those with experience in microneedling.
This technology was developed to overcome the problem of varying pressure application and resulting penetration depth that occurs with hand-held derma rollers.
It is an automated microneedling device that looks like a pen and offers several advantages over the traditional dermaroller.
- The device uses disposable needle cartridges and precision guides to adjust the needle length.
- The tip or Dr Pen cartridge has various needles arranged in rows (instead of hundreds of needles in the dermaroller).
- The device is also powered by a rechargeable battery and works in two modes, high-speed mode and low-speed mode.
- Its ergonomic shape makes it more convenient to treat narrow areas such as the nose, eye area and lips without damaging the adjacent skin.
These devices should primarily be administered by professionals. These devices also allow for even more efficient delivery of serums and other anti-ageing products into the skin.
d) Radiofrequency Microneedling
Those familiar with radiofrequency skin tightening have likely encountered the term radiofrequency microneedling. This non-surgical skin anti-ageing technique uses a device with insulated needles to deliver high-intensity radiofrequency energy into the target tissue post skin penetration.
RF microneedling is a dermatologic procedure that effectively corrects various skin problems. The technique combines the tissue-heating effect of radiowaves with the collagen-inducing ability of microneedling.
Takeaway
Microneedling is a safe and effective procedure that enhances skin appearance. The applications of micro-needling technology will expand with advancements and new devices.
Whether you are looking to combat the telltale signs of ageing or simply rejuvenate your skin, this is definitely a treatment you should have in your arsenal. And if you do decide to go the professional treatment route, feel free to contact our friendly staff
0849295381/0670281541
Results can be seen after just one treatment, but you will yield even better results after three session. Your skin will be noticeably smoother, much softer, lightening of hyperpigmentation and brighter.
Definitely my #1 preferred treatment.