When it comes to achieving smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin, microneedling has become one of the most sought-after treatments in aesthetic skincare. This minimally invasive procedure works wonders for improving skin texture, reducing fine lines, and even tackling acne scars. But what exactly is microneedling, and is it the right treatment for you?
If you’re looking for a way to refresh and rejuvenate your skin without surgery or extensive downtime, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about microneedling and how it could help you achieve your skincare goals.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a cosmetic procedure designed to rejuvenate the skin by stimulating collagen and elastin production. The treatment involves using a specialised device with fine needles to create tiny, controlled micro-injuries on the skin’s surface.
While the idea of needles may sound intimidating, the treatment is performed with precision to ensure effectiveness while keeping discomfort to a minimum. The micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural healing response, prompting increased collagen production, which in turn leads to firmer, plumper, and healthier-looking skin.
How Does Microneedling Work?
The magic of microneedling lies in its ability to kickstart the skin’s repair process. When the tiny punctures are made, the body perceives them as minor injuries and responds by generating new collagen and elastin – two essential proteins responsible for maintaining skin strength and elasticity.
This process not only improves skin texture and firmness but also enhances the absorption of skincare products. Following a microneedling session, your skin is more receptive to serums and active ingredients, allowing for deeper penetration and better results from your skincare routine.
What Skin Concerns Can Microneedling Treat?
One of the reasons microneedling has gained so much popularity is its versatility. The treatment is effective for addressing a wide range of skin concerns, including:
- Fine lines and wrinkles – Helps to plump the skin, reducing the appearance of ageing signs.
- Acne scars and other scarring – Encourages skin regeneration, leading to smoother skin texture.
- Hyperpigmentation and sun damage – Promotes even skin tone by breaking up excess pigmentation.
- Enlarged pores – Helps tighten and refine the skin, reducing the appearance of large pores.
- Uneven skin texture – Smooths rough patches and improves overall skin quality.
- Stretch marks – Stimulates collagen to reduce the visibility of stretch marks over time.
Whether your goal is to soften wrinkles, fade scars, or simply achieve a radiant complexion, microneedling offers a natural and effective way to rejuvenate your skin.
What to Expect During & After Microneedling Treatment
At Light Touch Clinic, every microneedling treatment begins with a thorough consultation to assess your skin and determine the best approach for your needs.
Before the procedure, a numbing cream can be applied to ensure comfort. Once the skin is prepared, our microneedling device, the Dermapen, is gently passed over the treatment area, creating micro-injuries in the skin. The entire session typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
Immediately after the treatment, your skin may appear slightly red and feel sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. This is a normal response and usually subsides within 24 to 48 hours.
Over the next few days, the skin will begin to heal, and improvements in texture and tone will become visible in the weeks following treatment.
To maximise results, it’s important to follow post-treatment care instructions, which may include using gentle skin care products, avoiding sun exposure, and staying well-hydrated.
Is Microneedling Right for Me?
Microneedling is suitable for most skin types and tones, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of people. However, certain factors can determine whether this treatment is right for you.
You may be a great candidate if you:
- Want to improve skin texture, tone, and firmness.
- Have concerns about fine lines, scars, or pigmentation.
- Prefer a minimally invasive treatment with little downtime.
On the other hand, microneedling may not be suitable if you have active acne, skin infections, or certain medical conditions that affect wound healing. The best way to find out if microneedling is right for you is to book a consultation at our clinic, where our skincare experts can assess your skin and recommend the best approach or alternative treatments for you.
How Many Microneedling Sessions Will I Need?
While some clients notice improvements after a single session, microneedling is most effective when performed as part of a series of treatments. For optimal results, most people require between three to six sessions, spaced about four to six weeks apart.
The number of sessions needed depends on the specific skin concerns being treated. For example, mild skin rejuvenation may require fewer sessions, while deeper scars and stretch marks may need more treatments for noticeable improvement.
Microneedling vs Other Skin Treatments
If you’re considering microneedling, you may be wondering how it compares to other popular skin treatments. Here’s how it stacks up against some alternatives:
- Microneedling vs Chemical Peels: Chemical peels exfoliate the top layers of the skin, while microneedling works deeper to stimulate collagen. Both treatments can improve skin tone, but microneedling is better for scarring and deep wrinkles.
- Microneedling vs Laser Resurfacing: Laser treatments use heat to resurface the skin, which can require longer downtime. Microneedling is a gentler alternative with less risk of hyperpigmentation, making it a safer choice for darker skin tones.
- Microneedling vs Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion is a surface-level exfoliation, whereas microneedling works on a deeper level to rejuvenate the skin.
Each treatment has its benefits, and the best option depends on your skin type and goals. A consultation with our experts can help determine the most suitable approach for your needs.
Final Thoughts
Microneedling is a powerful yet gentle treatment that can help you achieve smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin. Whether you’re looking to reduce scars, soften wrinkles, or simply boost your skin’s radiance, microneedling offers impressive results with minimal downtime.
If you are concerned about the appearance of your skin and would like to improve its overall appearance, we recommend booking a consultation to assess your skin and decide the best course of treatment. At our clinic, our team of experts can help you determine if skin needling is right for your individual needs, or whether an alternative treatment would be more beneficial.
Microneedling FAQs
There are a number of questions we get asked often about skin needling. We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand more about what’s involved.
Does Microneedling hurt?
Microneedling is not a painful procedure. However, some people may experience mild discomfort during the treatment. This can be minimised by using a numbing cream prior to treatment.
How long does microneedling take?
Microneedling treatments usually take between 30-60 minutes, depending on the area being treated.
How often should I have microneedling?
Everyone’s skin is different, so the number of treatments will vary from person to person. At your consultation, our microneedling experts will be able to advise you on how many treatments you may need.
What can I expect after my treatment?
After your microneedling treatment, your skin may appear red and flushed. This is normal and will usually subside within a few hours. You may also experience some mild bruising, which should disappear within a few days.
It is important to avoid strenuous exercise or swimming for 24-48 hours after treatment. Exposure to the sun should also be avoided for at least 48 hours as your skin will be more sensitive.
We also advise avoiding the use of active or exfoliating skincare products for the 5-7 days following your treatment.
