Skin Needling, also known as dermal rolling, is a popular treatment among those who seek to turn back the clock. It involves puncturing the skin with tiny needles. But does it work? Laser Clinic New Zealand discusses the process and benefits of Skin Needling to your skin:
How Does Skin Needling Work?
Skin needling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive skin treatment that typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes. It involves using a device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin's dermal layer.
This targeted damage stimulates the body's natural wound-healing response, triggering the production of new collagen and elastin fibres.
Three phases of wound healing with Skin Needling treatment:
- Inflammatory Phase: After initial wounding caused by piercing the skin, the skin triggers the immune cell to cleanse and heal the wounds and increase blood flow to begin creating new tissue.
- Proliferative Phase: Once the wound is clean, it will rebuild new tissue and microscopic blood vessels - also known as granulation tissue - that fill and start covering the wound during the healing process
- Remodelling Phase: When the wound is closed, it is replaced with new dermal tissues and blood vessels. It involves the remodelling and realignment of collagen. Scar tissue flattens, making the epidermal layer of skin denser.
Benefits of Skin Needling
Skin Needling taps into your body's inherent ability to heal and regenerate, leading to a breadth of improvements for your complexion. Here’s how this minimally invasive treatment can benefit you:
Smoother, Firmer Skin
Skin needling can improve your skin’s firmness and elasticity due to its collagen and elastin-stimulating properties. Think of these essential proteins as your skin’s scaffolding, plumping it up from within.
The treatment results in a visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Skin Needling also combats the volume loss that naturally occurs with age.
Beyond fine lines and wrinkles, Skin Needling is remarkably effective in addressing textural imperfections caused by recent acne scarring.
However, it’s not as effective for older, deeply indented acne scars. This is because older scars may have less collagen-producing potential within the skin’s deeper layers. They may be less responsive to Skin Needling’s stimulatory effects.
Minimised Pores
Skin Needling also strengthens the skin around the pores, providing greater support and making them seem smaller and less noticeable. Additionally, it helps regulate oil production and uneven texture, both of which affect the appearance of pores.
With less oil buildup and dead skin cells, the pores are less clogged and do not appear too obvious. Take note, Skin Needling won’t erase pores completely, but with multiple sessions, favourable results can be achieved,
Does Skin Needling Hurt?
It depends on several factors including needle length and individual pain tolerance. Microneedles come in various shapes (e.g., straight, tapered) and lengths).
Shorter needles (0.25mm to 1.5mm) used for most facial treatments usually cause minimal discomfort, often described as a tingling or mild prickling. Longer needles may create a sharper sensation, especially in sensitive areas.
At Laser Clinics New Zealand, we understand that your comfort is a top priority. That's why we use topical numbing creams to minimise potential discomfort during your Skin Needling treatment.
Our team of Registered Nurses, Licensed Doctors, and Cosmetic Therapists are trained to ensure your experience is as comfortable as possible. They will craft a Personalised Treatment Plan with adjustments in technique and pressure to align with your individual needs.
Who Are Good Candidates For Skin Needling?
Skin Needling is versatile and can address several skin concerns. That said, not everyone is a candidate for this treatment. It is generally not recommended if you have active acne breakouts, eczema, or rosacea flare-ups. It's best to address these conditions first with your dermatologist.
If you fall in any of these categories, you may schedule an appointment further with any of our Registered Nurses or Therapists for more information:
- If you have fine lines, wrinkles, or loss of skin elasticity.
- If you have recent acne scars, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, and mild hyperpigmentation.
- Skin Needling is generally suitable for most skin types and tones, but you may want to consult with our Doctors further for peace of mind.
Factors Affecting Candidacy For Skin Needling
Apart from active inflammatory skin conditions, taking certain medications can increase photosensitivity or affect the wound-healing process in Skin Needling. Discuss any medications with us during your consultation.
Post-Skin Needling After Care
Our staff will be thorough in prescribing you a personalised post-treatment plan after you undergo Skin Needling. However, here’s what you generally might expect:
First 3-4 Hours (Immediate Aftercare)
It's completely normal to experience some redness and mild sensitivity immediately after the treatment. These typically subside within a few hours.
Make sure to apply a gentle, hydrating moisturiser or a calming serum to soothe the skin and promote healing.
Avoid sun exposure, even briefly, as it can worsen sensitivity. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF (50+) and consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat for added protection.
First 24-48 Hours
Continue with gentle cleansing and moisturising routines throughout the first 2 days post-treatment. Keep your routine simple and avoid any harsh irritants. Prioritise rest and allow your ski time to heal, so hold off on hot showers, saunas, and intense exercise.
Avoid direct sunlight still, and postpone swimming as chlorine or saltwater can make your skin more sensitive.
First 5-7 Days
Your skin will continue its healing process. Maintain your gentle cleansing and moisturising habits. While your skin repairs itself, avoid products with active ingredients like retinoids, exfoliating acids, or vitamin C as they might be too harsh for your skin at this stage.
You might experience some mild peeling or flaking, but it's important to resist the temptation to pick or pull at your skin to prevent irritation or scarring. If you absolutely must wear makeup, opt for gentle, mineral-based formulas and apply them with clean tools.
Potential Risks And Side Effects Of Skin Needling
While generally considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure, Skin Needling, like any cosmetic treatment, carries some potential side effects. It's essential to be aware of these to manage expectations and ensure a positive experience.
Common Side Effects:
- Redness and Sensitivity: Immediately following treatment, expect temporary redness and mild sensitivity, similar to a sunburn. This usually subsides within a few hours to a few days.
- Minor Swelling and Bruising: Occasionally, slight swelling or bruising may occur, particularly with deeper needling depths. Your practitioner can advise on post-treatment care to reduce these side effects.
- Mild Peeling or Flaking: As your skin heals, some dryness and flaking can occur. Proper hydration and gentle skincare, as recommended by Laser Clinics New Zealand practitioners can aid in the healing process.
Less Common Risks
We take great pains to ensure there are minimal risks to the procedure. However, there is still a possibility, despite having a low chance of risks occurring, especially in a well-controlled, hygienic, and professional environment.
A study by Aashim Singh and Savita Yadav in the Indian Dermatology Online Journal notes that adverse effects like post-inflammatory pigmentation, aggravation of acne, and allergic reactions are possible, rare as they may be.
Rest assured, Laser Clinics New Zealand adheres to strict hygiene protocols, using sterile single-use needles and providing detailed aftercare instructions to minimise these risks.
Laser Clinics New Zealand is the largest global cosmetic clinic company, and we use the best medical-grade, industry-leading technology to get the best results for our clients.
Your safety is our top priority, and our highly qualified team of Registered Nurses, Doctors, and Cosmetic Therapists understand how to minimise the risks associated with Skin Needling.
Get more plumped and glowing skin - book a complimentary skin consultation today and we’ll have a thorough discussion on your suitability, potential side effects, and Tailored Treatment Plan for optimal results with minimal downtime.
