What can be treated with microneedling?
- Ageing skin, fine lines and wrinkles
- Alopecia
- Scars – such as acne, chicken pox and surgical
- Stretch marks
- Open pores
- Skin tone and texture
- Enlarged pores
- Superficial pigmentation and sun damage
- Collagen deficiency
With minimal downtime and no injectables, this non-invasive procedure is extremely popular. In many cases it is as effective as ‘ablative treatments’ such as laser resurfacing but does not require the removal of the epidermis (top layer of the skin) so healing time is shorter.
Microneedling is also one of the few skin therapies that is suitable for treating all skin types, including most ethnic skin (subject to testing) and the more delicate skin around the mouth and neck. It can also be used on the body.
What happens during a microneedling appointment?
Depending on the area being treated and concern being addressed, your skin may be numbed with a cream before microneedling treatment. Most people do not require numbing cream prior to the procedure and only experience mild, temporary discomfort.
Using fine, sterile needles, this minimally invasive procedure creates controlled micro-injuries, prompting your skin to produce more collagen and elastin. The result? Smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin.
The skin will be prepared with a cleanser, peel and toner before a serum is applied and the handheld device used across the treatment area to create tiny channels in the surface of the skin. Following the microneedling, a relaxing and hydrating post-treatment mask will be applied allowing you to relax as it works to soothe your skin. The appointment will take between 60 and 75 minutes.
How many microneedling sessions do I need?
Although you will likely see an improvement in skin quality after one microneedling session, I recommend a course of 3-6 treatments at 4 week intervals. On average patients will require a single maintenance treatment session once a year to keep up the improvements.
How long do microneedling results last?
For some concerns such as scarring the results can be extremely long lasting if not permanent. For an improvement of texture, skin quality and collagen levels, maintenance treatments are advised every 9-12 months. Most people continue to see an improvement in their skin quality for around 6-8 months after their last session of microneedling.
Who can have microneedling treatments?
Microneedling is a safe and suitable treatment for most people. It is not suitable for those who are pregnant, nursing or have reduced wound healing abilities. Your medical history will be assessed prior to treatment to ensure it is safe for you to proceed. Please book a consultation to discuss this further and confirm suitability. Please wait 12 months following completion of oral Roaccutane (isotretinoin) before having a microneedling treatment.
When will I see microneedling results?
Most people will see improved skin quality within a few weeks of their first session however depending on the treatment indications a course of 3-6 treatments will be recommend. Usually 4-6 weeks between each treatment session is advised.
Can I have microneedling while pregnant?
As this treatment hasn’t been clinically tested on pregnant or nursing people, it hasn’t been proved to be safe. Therefore, this treatment is not available for those patients. Once you are no longer nursing, there is no time you have to wait before beginning microneedling.
What should I do before microneedling treatment?
It is recommended that you do not wear makeup to your appointment. Please avoid using active skincare ingredients such as retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, retinoic acid) and acids (lactic acid, salicylic acid) for 7 days prior to treatment.
Avoid any chemical peels or other skin treatments at least 14 days prior to microneedling. You need to wait 28 days after having any injectables (such as Botox/anti-wrinkle treatments/dermal fillers) before having microneedling treatment. You will need to wait 28 days after as well.
What should I do after microneedling treatment?
Any redness should decrease over a 24 hour period. Refrain from touching the skin with hands for the rest of the day. Do not pick or pull the skin. Do not massage the skin for 2 weeks. Skin can be cleansed using a mild cleanser. Do not scrub the skin. Pat dry with a clean towel. Use of an intensive gentle moisturiser is recommended for at least a week as skin might feel drier or tighter after treatment – this is normal. Avoid facial products containing fragrance for 3-5 days after treatment as these may irritate the skin.
Makeup can be applied the next day but ensure brushes and sponges are clean. Avoid extreme temperatures such as sun light, saunas and steam rooms for at least 2 weeks after treatment. Apply a sunscreen with an SPF30+ (ideally 50+) on a daily basis and with regular applications for a period of at least 2 weeks. Avoid electrolysis, waxing, bleaching, depilatory creams and laser hair removal for at least 72 hours. Do not swim in chlorinated water for at least 14 days.
Do not have any injectable treatments for at least 28 days (such as Botox/anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers etc). Avoid facial treatments such as chemical peels for at least 14 days.
Is microneedling safe?
Microneedling is an extremely safe treatment with minimal risks and downtime.
What should I expect after microneedling treatment?
After your treatment, your skin will be pink. This can vary from slightly flushed to dark red. For most people the redness will resolve over a few hours. Sometimes it can take 3-4 days for skin to return to its normal colour. You can wear makeup the next day. You will be advised what products to use following your treatment. Please only use these and avoid any ‘active’ ingredients such as retinoids, acids (glycolic acid, vitamin C, salicylic acid) until the skin colour has returned to normal. Please use an SPF30 or above daily.
How does microneedling work?
When the microneedles puncture the skin, they trigger a natural wound healing response. This prompts the body to produce more collagen and elastin, leading to improved skin texture, reduced scarring, and a more youthful appearance. It’s like giving your skin a gentle nudge to kickstart its rejuvenation process. It also makes the skin like a sponge improving absorption and effectiveness of the serums applies to the skin during treatment.
How much does microneedling cost?
For detailed prices, please use booking link to see price breakdown/options.
Please note, all of the above treatments include a skin preparation treatment, microneedling with a serum specifically selected to address your key concerns and a post treatment face mask for optimum healing and recovery.