As you age, you will likely develop wrinkles, lines, scarring, and discolouration, especially on parts of the skin exposed to the sun, like your face, hands, neck, and forearms. Luckily skin treatments can help revive your skin. But with the many available options deciding what treatment is right for you can be challenging. Two popular skin treatments are micro-needling and microdermabrasion. Both can help you attain healthier, glowing skin depending on your skin type, and needs. But what is the difference between micro-needling and microdermabrasion, and how do you know which one is right for you?
What is micro-needling?
Micro-needling is a relatively painless regenerative cosmetic procedure used for treating various skin concerns.
The procedure involves using small needles to make microscopic punctures on the surface of the skin. It can be performed on the face, and body to treat skin concerns such as acne scars, rough texture, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin texture, and large pores.
How does it work?
Micro-Needling utilizes a cordless pen with adjustable speed and depth. A disposable tip is attached to the end of the pen for each session, this tip contains 11 very fine needles that are glided along the skin. During the treatment, the pen is gently glided over the skin while tiny punctures are created within the epidermis and dermis that encourage the skin’s own natural healing response, leading to the production of collagen and elastin. It improves skin texture, reduces the appearance of pore size, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is also a very effective treatment for acne scarring reducing the depth of indented acne scars and lightening pigmented acne scarring.
Number of treatments
You may not see results from the procedure for up to 90 days as this is the time it takes for new collagen to form. To see optimal results, you will need multiple treatments.
Healing
How long the skin takes to heal from a micro-needling procedure will depend on the intensity of your sessions and your skin healing abilities. Generally, your skin is red for up to 24 hours but makeup can safely be applied the next day – mineral makeup is best. Your skin can feel dry for up to 7 days and experience mild to moderate flaking. Deeper treatments can result in a longer downtime.
What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a more gentle, superficial cost-effective treatment option.
Microdermabrasion is like gently sandpapering your skin. The procedure involves using a diamond tip that is glided along the skin. It can be done on the face and body to improve skin concerns such as pigmented acne scarring, and for an overall smoothing of skin texture.
How does it work?
A diamond-tipped applicator is glided along the skin and uses vacuum suction to scrub off dead and dull skin cells, remove dirt and debris from the skin, and stimulate circulation. This promotes the growth of new and healthy skin cells, and as a result, you get a smoother, more even, and brighter complexion.
Number of treatments
You will see results immediately after a microdermabrasion treatment due to the removal of the dead layer of skin and fresh complexion.
Healing
Typically, there is little to no healing time following a microdermabrasion procedure but you want to ensure you are wearing sunscreen as your skin will be more vulnerable due to the exfoliation.
Micro-needling and microdermabrasion treatments in Vancouver
Depending on your current skin condition and skin type, either micro-needling or microdermabrasion could be a good treatment option. At SKN Holistic Rejuvenation Clinic, our highly trained skin care professionals can examine your skin and help you choose the right skin treatment.
Schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about micro-needling and microdermabrasion.
