Microneedling

Microneedling treatment allows for controlled induction of the skin’s self-repair mechanism by creating micro-“injuries” in the skin, which triggers new collagen synthesis, yet does not pose the risk of permanent scarring. Microneedling is extremely versatile and can be used on all parts of the body: face, neck, decollete, arms, hands, legs, abdomen and back.

First the skin care nurses will apply a topical numbing cream to the treatment areas. This will help to make the experience as comfortable as possible during the microneedling process.

Following the numbing, a thin layer of peptide serum is applied to the skin. Next the microneedling device, called the SkinPen is glided across the repair area in a gentle motion. The SkinPen is a handheld device similar in shape to a pen with very tiny needles at the tip. The microneedles penetrate the skin in a very controlled, precise manner; creating micro-channels or tiny holes deep into the dermis layer of the skin. The pinpricks are so small that you likely won’t notice them after the procedure. 

After the procedure, Environ’s post procedure products are applied. 

Depending on the depth of the microneedle penetration, the treatment may feel like a slight tickling sensation to more of a pinching sensation. 

The numbing process takes approximately 30 minutes and the procedure is normally completed within 45-60 minutes, depending on the required treatment and anatomical site. In total, the average microneedling session lasts approximately 2 hours.

After the procedure, the skin will be red and flushed in appearance in a similar way to moderate sunburn. You may also experience skin tightness and sensitivity to touch on the area being treated. You can also experience some facial swelling the day after the treatment. You can use cold compresses and keep your head elevated on a pillow at night to reduce the swelling. Make-up can be used the next day, this can help disguise the redness as it dissipates. After four days there is barely any evidence that the procedure has taken place.

Most people notice healthier-looking skin immediately, and the natural repair process of the skin continues to progress over the course of several weeks. Visible changes appear after approximately 3 treatments.

The course of treatment will be determined by your skincare nurse based upon your individual treatment goals and the health of your skin. Most patients receive a series of 6 treatments spaced about 4-6 weeks apart. To maintain the results of your treatment, you’ll need multiple sessions and maintenance treatments.

Microneedling treatment is contraindicated for patients with: keloid scars, scleroderma, collagen vascular diseases or cardiac abnormalities, a hemorrhagic disorder or hemostatic dysfunction, active bacterial or fungal infection.

 

Microneedling treatment has not been evaluated in the following patient populations, as such, precautions should be taken when determining whether to treat:

- scars and stretch marks less than one year old
- women who are pregnant or nursing 
- keloid scars 
- patients with history of eczema 
- psoriasis and other chronic conditions
- patients with history of actinic (solar) keratosis
- patients with history of herpes simplex infections 
- diabetics or patients with wound-healing deficiencies
- patients on immunosuppressive therapy
- skin with presence of raised moles or warts on targeted area