MICRONEEDLING
MICRONEEDLING AT GAVAYA
Unlock your skin’s natural ability to renew itself with microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy. This minimally invasive treatment is designed for anyone looking to achieve a smoother, firmer, and more radiant complexion. By creating tiny, controlled micro-injuries in the skin, microneedling triggers your body’s natural healing response to produce fresh, new collagen and elastin.
This process effectively addresses a wide range of concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, uneven skin tone, and enlarged pores. Unlike more aggressive treatments, microneedling is safe for all skin types and tones, and it offers significant results with minimal downtime. Let us help you reveal a more confident and luminous you, naturally.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN MICRONEEDING ADDRESS?
Common skin concerns treated include:
- Acne scars
- Stretch marks and surgical scars
- Fine lines, facial wrinkles, and early aging
- Rough skin texture and uneven skin tone
- Enlarged pores
- Sun damage, dark spots, and discoloration
- Mild skin laxity and reduced skin elasticity
Microneedling is safe for most skin tones, including darker skin tones. Beyond treating the face, microneedling can be done on the neck, chest, and other areas of the body impacted by skin scars or stretch marks.
HOW DOES MICRONEEDLING WORK?
Microneedling harnesses the body’s natural healing cascade to significantly improve signs of aging, skin texture issues, and discoloration. The process, also known as collagen induction therapy, works by creating controlled, microscopic wounds in the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries trigger a three-phase healing response that rejuvenates the skin from the inside out.
IS MICRONEEDLING RIGHT FOR ME?
Microneedling is a beneficial treatment for anyone wanting smoother skin, improved texture, or reduced acne scars and fine lines, with minimal downtime. However, it is not suitable for those with active acne, cold sores, open wounds, certain inflammatory conditions like eczema or psoriasis, weakened immune systems, or if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on specific medications like isotretinoin. A personalized consultation is essential to ensure the treatment is safe and effective for your specific needs.
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE?
- Individuals looking to refresh their skin and improve texture.
- People with scars, fine lines, or other textural imperfections.
- Your skin feels dull or lifeless.
- You’re noticing fine lines, sagging, or uneven tone developing.
- Makeup just doesn’t sit right anymore—it creases, clings to texture, and enhances flaws.
- You struggle with pigmentation or acne scars and no longer want to cover them up.
- Those who want a procedure that delivers visible results with little recovery time.
- Anyone wanting to be proactive in their anti aging regimen.
HEALING PROCESS
Proliferation and tissue rebuilding
This phase is where the most significant rejuvenation occurs.
- Collagen production: The immune response activates specialized cells called fibroblasts, which are responsible for creating new, healthy collagen and elastin.
- New tissue formation: As the new proteins are synthesized, they rebuild and strengthen the skin’s underlying structure, filling in depressions and improving overall texture.
- Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles: With more collagen and elastin, the skin regains its firmness and elasticity, helping to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.
Remodeling and strengthening
Over time, the newly created collagen matures and strengthens, creating a smoother, tighter, and more resilient complexion. This continued remodeling process leads to long-term improvements.
How the healing process improves specific skin concerns
Signs of aging
- Addresses wrinkles and fine lines: The increased production of collagen and elastin restores the skin’s structure, which naturally diminishes wrinkles and fine lines and tightens loose skin.
- Fights sun damage: By promoting the growth of new skin cells, the process helps reverse some of the sun damage that contributes to wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Skin texture issues
- Fills in scars: For issues like acne scars, the new collagen helps fill in the depressed areas, creating a smoother skin surface. The process can also help break down and remodel tough scar tissue.
- Refines enlarged pores: The surrounding skin is strengthened and plumped up with new collagen, which helps to minimize the appearance of enlarged pores.
Discolorations and hyperpigmentation
- Encourages cell turnover: Microneedling accelerates the skin’s natural exfoliation and regeneration processes. As the old, discolored cells are shed, new, unpigmented cells come to the surface, leading to a more even and brighter skin tone.
- Disperses melanin clusters: For conditions like melasma and sunspots, the treatment helps to mechanically break down and disperse irregular, concentrated patches of melanin in the skin.
- Calms inflammation: In cases of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), microneedling helps soothe inflammation and strengthens the skin barrier, which prevents new dark spots from forming.
WHAT IS THE MICRONEEDLING PROCESS LIKE?
Step 1-
During this initial meeting, we will thoroughly assess your specific skin concerns and discuss your aesthetic goals. Based on this analysis, we will develop a custom microneedling treatment plan designed just for you.
When it’s time for your treatment, we will begin by cleansing the area and applying a topical numbing cream to ensure your complete comfort. Next, we will apply a specialized serum or growth factors to your skin before carefully gliding the SkinPen back and forth. This process is quick and efficient, typically taking only 30-45 minutes depending on the treatment area. You may feel a slight vibration as the SkinPen works its magic, but you should not feel any pain.
Step 2-
We will begin by thoroughly cleansing the treatment area to ensure your skin is prepped and ready for the procedure. To guarantee your comfort throughout the session, a high-quality topical numbing cream will then be applied.
Step 3-
Next, a specialized serum will be applied to your skin to help the glide over your skin smoothly. Although not necessary, you may elect to add on a skin booster of your choice. Skin booster options vary but often contain potent growth factors, peptides, and other beneficial nutrients for your skin. This serum is chosen to nourish and hydrate your skin, and the microneedling process will ensure it penetrates deeply for maximum effectiveness.
Step 4:
Using the SkinPen device, we will gently glide the pen over your skin, creating thousands of microscopic channels. This process is quick and efficient, with most treatments taking only 30-45 minutes depending on the size of the area. While the tiny needles work to trigger your skin’s natural healing response, you will feel a mild vibration but should not experience any pain, making the experience both comfortable and highly effective.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE HEALING PROCESS
Immediate post-treatment (Day 1)
- Appearance: Your skin will likely look and feel flushed, similar to a mild sunburn. The redness is a natural and necessary inflammatory response that kicks off the healing cascade.
- Sensations: You may experience some mild swelling, warmth, tightness, or slight sensitivity to the touch.
- First hours: It is normal to have some pinpoint bleeding immediately after the procedure. It’s crucial to follow your provider’s specific instructions for the first few hours, which often include using a soothing or cooling gel.
- Activities to avoid:
- Sun exposure: Your skin is highly vulnerable, so avoid direct sunlight.
- Makeup: The microscopic channels are open, so do not apply makeup for at least 24–48 hours to avoid irritation or infection.
- Strenuous exercise: Avoid activities that cause excessive sweating for at least 24–48 hours.
- Harsh products: Use only gentle, recommended products.
Days 2–3
- Redness subsides: The “sunburn” look will begin to fade significantly during this time.
- Increased dryness and tightness: As the skin starts to regenerate, you may feel an increased sensation of dryness and tightness.
- Swelling decreases: Any minor swelling, especially in delicate areas, should start to go down.
Days 4–5
- Light peeling and flaking: Many patients experience some light flaking or peeling, which is a positive sign that your skin is renewing itself. It’s crucial not to pick or peel at the flaking skin, as this can cause irritation or scarring.
- Normal cleansing resumes: Your provider may approve resuming your regular, gentle cleanser and a hyaluronic acid serum to keep the skin hydrated.
One week and beyond
- Skin normalization: Most redness and irritation should have subsided, and your skin will appear and feel more like its normal self.
- Improved appearance: A noticeable glow and smoother skin texture become apparent as the initial healing phase concludes.
- Collagen production ramps up: The real and lasting benefits of microneedling continue to develop over the next 4–6 weeks as collagen production increases beneath the skin’s surface.
- Reintroducing active ingredients: Your provider will advise when it is safe to resume more active skincare ingredients, such as retinoids or exfoliants.
Key aftercare tips for best results
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and use a hydrating serum or moisturizer to support the healing process.
- Hands off: Avoid touching your face unnecessarily to prevent introducing bacteria.
- Sleep elevated: Sleeping on your back with your head slightly elevated for the first few nights can help minimize swelling.
- Follow instructions: Always adhere to the specific aftercare instructions provided by your skincare professional.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LASER HAIR REMOVAL
How many microneedling sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required depends on your specific skin concerns and goals. Most people need a series of treatments to achieve the best results.
For mild concerns: For minor issues like enlarged pores or mild texture irregularities, one to two sessions may be sufficient.
For anti-aging and overall texture: A course of three to six sessions, typically spaced four to six weeks apart, is often recommended to stimulate significant collagen production.
For moderate to severe scars: Addressing deeper concerns like acne scarring may require a longer series of treatments, with six to eight sessions often necessary for optimal improvement.
How long do microneedling results last?
The effects of microneedling are long-lasting, but they are not permanent because the natural aging process continues. With a proper initial series of treatments and consistent maintenance, results can be sustained for years.
Initial improvements: After the first session, you may notice enhanced texture and radiance within a couple of weeks. More substantial changes become visible after a few months, as new collagen and elastin are produced.
Without maintenance: After the initial series of treatments, the results may last for six to twelve months, depending on the individual.
With maintenance: With regular maintenance sessions, the results can be extended, often lasting for five years or longer.
Factors influencing longevity:
- Skin condition: The severity of your skin concerns affects how long results last. For example, improvements to acne scars can be very long-lasting, while treating fine lines may require more frequent upkeep.
- Lifestyle: Factors like sun exposure, smoking, diet, and stress all impact the health of your skin and the longevity of your results.
- Aftercare: A consistent at-home skincare routine and diligent sun protection are essential for preserving the benefits of your treatments.
See our next FAQ on maintaining your results.
How can I maintain my results?
To prolong your results, maintenance sessions are highly recommended once you have completed your initial treatment series. These appointments help to continue stimulating collagen production and counteract the effects of aging and environmental damage. Your provider can help you determine the best schedule for your needs, but many patients schedule a touch-up once or twice a year.
Is microneedling safe?
Microneedling is considered a very safe procedure when performed by a trained professional using sterile, high-quality equipment.
The primary risk comes from at-home devices, which can cause infection, deep wounds, scarring, and hyperpigmentation.
Who should avoid microneedling?
While generally safe, microneedling is not suitable for everyone. Patients should avoid the procedure if they have certain conditions:
- Active skin issues: Active acne breakouts, eczema, psoriasis, or an active infection (like a cold sore) in the treatment area.
- Compromised immune system: Conditions such as HIV/AIDS or being on chemotherapy or high-dose steroids.
- Bleeding disorders: Individuals with hemophilia or who are taking blood-thinning medications.
- History of keloid scarring: Prone to developing thick, raised scars.
- Certain medical conditions: Uncontrolled diabetes, as it can impair wound healing.
- Pregnancy and nursing: Due to hormonal changes and the potential risk of topical serums.
- Radiation or surgery: You should wait until your skin has fully healed after recent radiation therapy, chemical peels, or other aggressive treatments.
What side effects can I expect?
Common temporary side effects include but aren’t limited to:
- Redness and swelling: The skin will look and feel flushed, like a mild sunburn, for about 24–48 hours.
- Dryness and tightness: The treated area may feel dry and tight as the skin begins to renew itself.
- Light flaking or peeling: This is a normal part of the healing process and typically occurs a few days after the treatment.
- Minor bleeding or bruising: Some pinpoint bleeding during the procedure is normal, and minor bruising can occasionally occur.
Why should I have microneedling done professionally?
At-home microneedling, particularly with dermarollers, carries several significant risks that make it less safe and less effective than professional treatments. While professional practitioners use sterile, medical-grade tools and have extensive training, DIY attempts often lead to serious complications and subpar results.
The dangers of at-home devices:
- Increased risk of infection:
- Lack of sterilization: Household environments cannot achieve the same level of sterility as a medical office. Bacteria from your hands, surroundings, or improperly cleaned tools can be pushed deep into the skin’s micro-punctures, leading to skin infections, abscesses, or cold sore flare-ups.
- Reusable tools: Many at-home devices are reused, and needles can become dull or harbor bacteria over time. Alcohol is not enough to completely sterilize the device.
- Skin damage and scarring:
- Poor results: Over-the-counter devices have shorter, duller needles that cannot produce the same results as professional devices. Pressing harder in attempt to achieve the same degree of microchannels are often ineffective and can cause deep wounds and permanent scarring.
- Improper technique: Without professional training, it is easy to apply too much pressure, roll incorrectly, or use the wrong needle depth. This can cause micro-tears in the skin, leading to bruising, “tram track” marks, or permanent scarring.
- Subpar tools: At-home devices typically have shorter, duller needles that tear the skin rather than creating precise micro-injuries. This can worsen skin texture issues, enlarge pores, and cause uneven results.
- Exacerbation of skin conditions
- Misapplication: Applying microneedling to areas with active acne, rosacea, or eczema can worsen the condition by spreading bacteria and increasing inflammation.
- Inappropriate serums: Inexperienced users often apply the wrong serums after treatment. Products with harsh ingredients or fragrances can cause irritation, stinging, and allergic reactions when introduced into deeper layers of the skin.
- Hyperpigmentation
- Uneven pressure and technique: Inconsistent rolling can lead to blotchy results and prolonged redness. For individuals with darker skin tones, improper technique can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, creating dark spots that are difficult to treat.
- Lack of aftercare knowledge: Without expert guidance on aftercare and sun protection, the treated skin can become inflamed, triggering excess melanin production and discoloration.
- Limited effectiveness
- Superficial results: Most at-home devices use very short needles that only penetrate the skin’s surface. This can provide some mild exfoliation but does not reach the deeper layers needed to stimulate significant collagen and elastin production for treating wrinkles and scars.
- Lack of customization: At-home kits are a one-size-fits-all solution. Professional treatments, in contrast, can be customized by needle depth and technique to address specific concerns.
START YOUR GLOW- UP JOURNEY TODAY!
Microneedling is more than just a beauty treatment; it’s an investment in your skin’s future health and longevity. Instead of chasing surface-level fixes, boost your confidence with treatments grounded in science and delivered by experts.
We’re ready when you are. Book a consultation at Gavaya today and see why your best skin is still ahead of you.
Located inside:
Women's Health Partners of The Permian Basin
