MICRONEEDLING: A Holistic Alternative to Invasive Skin Care Treatments
by Dr. Mary Gagliardi, LAc, DACM
WHAT IS MICRONEEDLING?
Relying on the reparative cellular process of your own body, microneedling, also called Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), is a new natural treatment option to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, acne scaring, hypo or hyper pigmentation–resulting in younger, more radiant looking skin. Microneedling subtly diminishes the signs of aging for a more natural youthful appearance—in a way that does not to produce the look brought by of chemical fillers and injections. Individual results depend on age, skin condition, environment, lifestyle, and more. Several systematic research reviews have found microneedling to be a safe and effective therapeutic treatment for scars, acne, melasma, and for skin rejuvenation.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
The procedure usually takes about 30-40 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated. Patients will receive acupuncture to help relax the body and minimize any potential pain during the microneedling session. Individual pain tolerance varies greatly: however, pain levels can be managed with different depth settings on the microneedling instrument. It is important to communicate your pain tolerance to your practitioner to have the most pleasant experience. Your comfort matters. If you find microneedling too painful, nanoneedling (a similar device without needles) can be used as an alternative.
Before the microneedling starts, a thin layer of hyaluronic acid will be applied to the skin. The instrument will be gently pressed against the skin while gliding in a crosshatch motion until the entire treatment area has been covered (the face, into the hairline, and the neck). Finally, a cooling aloe-vera mask is applied to the face and the patient relaxes for 10 minutes before the treatment is complete. Immediately after treatment, most patients notice a bright redness to the skin, some compare it to the look of a mild sunburn. Healing time depends on individual sensitivity to the treatment, but redness typically subsides in 8-12 hours. Patients are advised to use sunscreen following treatment. To achieve optimal results, 4-6 sessions spaced three weeks apart is recommended. Visible changes develop over the course of several days and weeks as the natural healing process plumps and evens the skin, giving an effortless youthful glow. Results can last anywhere from 1-2 years. Treatment outcomes can be improved by bi-yearly maintenance microneedling sessions.
MICRONEEDLING FEE SCHEDULE AT PHILA MIND-BODY ACUPUNCTURE:
Initial Session: $185 (without follow up)
Package of 4 Treatments: $700 ($175 per session)
After Completing the Package, Follow-up Sessions: $175
WHO SHOULD TRY IT?
Anyone who is interested in a holistic alternative to the more invasive skin care treatments on the market. Microneedling is an excellent natural remedy for acne scars and small wrinkles, while evening skin tone, texture, and pigmentation. For patients that want more facial lifting and sculpting, or who want to address deeper facial lines, a facial rejuvenation series with acupuncture needles is recommended. Inquire with your practitioner for a customized plan.
Microneedling is NOT suitable for those dealing with:
- Active acne
- Pregnancy — (can use nano-needling)
- Moderate to severe chronic skin disease such as eczema and psoriasis
- Blood disorders, or patients on anticoagulant therapy
- Extreme keloidal tendency
- Patients undergoing chemo radiation therapy
** Please tell your practitioner if you have any of the above conditions.
SCHEDULE: To book your initial Microneedling session: www.acuforus.com