Benefits of Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy): Its Cost, Safety, Results, and Aftercare.

Published on: Mar 07, 2023 / Last Updated on: Sep 05, 2023 / SKINCARE
Benefits of Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy): Its Cost, Safety, Results, and Aftercare.

Microneedling is a form of collagen induction therapy. It is a minimally invasive treatment designed to improve the appearance of skin. It involves using tiny needles to puncture the skin's surface, creating controlled micro-injuries that trigger the skin to produce new collagen and elastin fibers. The result is healthier, younger-looking skin with reduced wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and acne scarring. A recent scientific review suggests it is a "highly versatile treatment" effective for treating alopecia, delivering medications, and reducing hyperhidrosis and other conditions like stretch marks.

People often confuse microneedling with derma rolling, but they are distinct skincare techniques with differences in their devices, depth of penetration, and professional application. To comprehensively understand the distinctions between microneedling and derma rolling, be sure to check out our dedicated article that breaks down their differences in a reader-friendly manner.

Benefits of Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy)

Here are some of the benefits that collagen induction therapy with microneedling can provide:

  • Reduced Appearance of Aging: By stimulating the natural production of collagen and elastin in the skin, microneedling can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, making for a smoother, more youthful complexion.

  • Improved Skin Tone & Texture: Microneedling can also help to improve skin tone and texture, giving it a healthier and fresher look. It can help to reduce acne scars, age spots, sun damage, and other signs of aging.

  • Treats Sun Damage: Sun exposure over time can cause premature aging in the form of wrinkles, age spots, and other blemishes. Microneedling stimulates collagen production, which can help to repair damage caused by the sun's UV rays.

  • Enhances Skin Elasticity: The increased collagen production brought about by microneedling helps to improve skin elasticity and firmness for a more supple look.

  • No Downtime Necessary: One of the best things about microneedling is minimal downtime required after treatment – you can get back to your normal activities immediately!

  • Reduces Stretch Marks: Microneedling is an excellent solution for stretch marks that appear in areas of rapid growth. It can help plump up the skin, making stretch marks less noticeable. This treatment can be applied to any area of the body where stretch marks are present, giving you smoother, firmer skin.

  • Shrinks the Pores: Although it may sound counter-intuitive that making tiny holes in your skin could make your pores look smaller, microneedling is surprisingly effective in helping shrink the appearance of large pores. Plumping up the areas surrounding each pore makes pores much less noticeable.

Microneedling vs. Microdermabrasion

Cosmetic skin care needle on white background in closed up macro focus

When it comes to skin rejuvenation, microneedling, and microdermabrasion are two of the most popular treatments. But what is the difference between them?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that uses tiny needles to puncture the skin, stimulating natural healing and producing collagen and elastin for firmer, smoother skin. It can also reduce scarring and pigmentation issues.

Microdermabrasion is an exfoliating technique designed to remove dead skin cells and stimulate cell turnover. It can help improve the texture, tone, and overall appearance of the skin while also reducing signs of aging, such as wrinkles and age spots.

While both microneedling and microdermabrasion are effective treatments for improving skin tone and texture and reducing signs of aging, microneedling has some advantages over microdermabrasion.

  • First, microneedling is a much more targeted treatment. Because it stimulates natural collagen production at a deeper level in the skin, it can help to reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging more effectively than microdermabrasion. There is also less risk of irritation or damage to the skin since no abrasive tools are used.

  • Another benefit of microneedling is that multiple treatments may be necessary for the best results, but these treatments can be spaced further apart than those with microdermabrasion. In addition, many patients find the microneedling procedure more comfortable and relaxing than other treatments like chemical peels or laser-based treatments.

Types of Microneedling

Microneedling, a popular cosmetic procedure for skin rejuvenation, comes in several variations to cater to diverse skincare needs. Here are some different types of microneedling:

  • Microneedling with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Also known as a "vampire facial," PRP microneedling involves combining microneedling with the application of PRP from the patient's blood to accelerate healing and boost collagen production.

  • Microchanneling: This method combines microneedling with the delivery of specialized serums or growth factors into the skin, enhancing product absorption and overall results.

  • Radiofrequency Microneedling: RF microneedling incorporates radiofrequency energy into the needling process, promoting deeper tissue remodeling, tightening, and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

How Much Does Microneedling Cost?

The cost of microneedling varies depending on the type of treatment being performed and the size of the area being treated. According to Realself.com, the microneedling industry cost can be anywhere from $100 to $800 per session. Most individuals usually require three to six sessions to achieve the best results. Considering this, the overall cost can range from $600 to $4,200, depending on the number of sessions needed.

As with any medical treatment, before undergoing a procedure, it is essential to consult your doctor for professional advice and to ensure that the process will be safe for you.

How Safe is Microneedling?

Microneedling is generally considered to be a safe procedure when performed correctly. It is minimally invasive, and while some patients may experience redness, swelling, or mild discomfort following the treatment, these side effects should subside within a few days. Additionally, microneedling can be customized to each individual's skin type and concerns for maximum safety and efficacy, making it an effective treatment for many skin issues without the risks associated with more invasive therapies.

Is Microneedling Worth It?

A study conducted to evaluate the procedure's efficacy revealed that after just four monthly treatments, patients noticed marked improvements in their skin as early as 30 days afterward.

Microneedling can have both short-term and long-term results.

  • In the short term, patients may see softer and smoother skin, improved texture, reduced pore size, and increased collagen production.

  • Long-term results from microneedling include increased elasticity, diminished signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines, improved scarring, and overall younger-looking skin.

Results from microneedling can last up to two years with proper maintenance and follow-up treatments. However, it is important to note that results may vary from patient to patient depending on their individual skin type and the number of sessions performed.

Aftercare

Aftercare for microneedling is an essential part of the procedure.

  • Avoid direct sun exposure and use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for at least three days following the treatment.

  • Keeping skin moisturized and hydrated is also recommended to help accelerate healing and reduce discomfort or inflammation.

  • Additionally, it may be beneficial to use gentle cleansers as well as products that contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or peptides, which can help improve the overall health of your skin.