Our experiences throughout our lives have an impact on our skin. We may have scarring from acne, lines and wrinkles from ageing, damage from sun exposure, and stretch marks from childbirth. Micro-needling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive treatment that is used to improve these skin conditions. The treatment works by triggering the production of collagen and elastin in the skin as part of its natural healing process. The result is healthier skin that looks and feels better. You may be skeptical of this treatment because of the name, or perhaps stories you’ve heard have made you hesitant.
Let’s dispel some of the common myths about micro-needling so you can learn the truth about this amazing treatment.
Myth: Micro-needling is painful
Truth: The thought of anything involving needles may incite feelings of dread, yet micro-needling has been described as mildly uncomfortable or even painless. The procedure uses a micro-needling pen with very thin needles that measure from 0.25 mm to 2 mm in diameter. That’s as thin as a strand of hair and makes penetration far less painful. At our skin clinic in Vancouver, 90% of our clients have reported that the procedure is painless. A numbing agent can be applied to the skin before the procedure, for those with sensitive skin or concerns about discomfort.
Myth: Micro-needling causes infection
Truth: When performed by a certified esthetician in a sterile environment, micro-needling is safe. The micro-needling device uses sterile cartridges that are discarded after each client. Also, the punctures in your skin are microscopic, and they close quickly, minimizing the possibility of infection.
Myth: The same effects can be achieved with at-home devices
Truth: The devices used for micro-needling are medical grade and sterile. They penetrate deep into the skin, triggering the skin’s healing response. Your body responds by sending a surge of collagen and elastin to the puncture site, provoking new collagen-filled skin to grow. The punctures created by a micro-needling device also allow for quicker absorption of medical-grade serums for more immediate and dramatic results. At-home devices such as derma rollers have shorter, duller needles that create channels in the skin. While this may improve the absorption of serums, derma rollers do not penetrate deep enough to prompt the skin’s production of collagen. Additionally, these devices may cause scarring and infection if they are not used, cleaned, or stored properly.
Myth: Recovery time is long
Truth: While there will be redness after your micro-needling session, this should only last 1 to 2 days. As your face heals over the next week, you may experience some peeling and drying. You can apply mineral makeup after 48 hours to mask any residual redness. Improvements in your complexion and suppleness of the skin are noticeable after one treatment and continue to improve over time. Experts recommend you do 3 to 6 sessions of collagen induction therapy, 4 to 6 weeks apart, depending on your goal.
Truth: SKN Clinic is the first Clinic in Vancouver to offer this treatment almost 10 years ago
At SKN Holistic Rejuvenation Clinic, skincare is our passion, and we approach beauty holistically. We believe that regardless of your age, you should feel good in your skin. Visit our skin clinic in Vancouver, and our trained specialists will examine your skin to determine if micro-needling is the ideal procedure for you.
Book your complimentary consultation with one of our skin specialists today, so we can help you achieve healthy, youthful, radiant skin.