Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses small, sterilized needles to create micro-punctures in the skin, which encourages collagen production and helps improve the appearance of scars, acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and stretch marks. It is also used for transcutaneous medication delivery, as it enhances the delivery of various drugs across the skin barrier by bypassing the stratum corneum and depositing the drug directly up to the vascularized dermis. Microneedling is generally considered safe, but like any procedure, it has risks. The most common side effect is minor skin irritation immediately following the procedure, and there is a low risk of infection if the equipment is not cleaned well.
Here are some additional details about microneedling:
Positive:
- Simple, safe, effective, and minimally invasive therapeutic technique
- Encourages collagen production, which can help make the skin firmer and improve skin elasticity
- Can improve the appearance of scars, acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and stretch marks
- Enhances the delivery of various drugs across the skin barrier
Negative:
- The most common side effect is minor skin irritation immediately following the procedure
- There is a low risk of infection if the equipment is not cleaned well
Materials:
- Microneedling devices employed in medical and aesthetic offices include fixed, needle rollers and electronically-powered pens with disposable tips.
It is important to note that microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that should be performed by a qualified healthcare provider. While there are do-it-yourself versions of microneedling devices available, dermatologists warn against using those because you might accidentally hurt your skin, and you may not have a good way to sterilize the needles.
