Microneedling

Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, is a cosmetic procedure for skin rejuvenation, skin tightening, treatment of scarring, and when paired with Platelet rich plasma can aid in hair growth. It is also a good alternative to laser procedures on darker skin where there is a risk of hyperpigmentation.

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a popular, minimally invasive office procedure to treat the signs of skin aging to improve skin tone, texture and sun damage. It is performed using medical grade devices which permit controlled injury to induce the skin’s natural self-repair mechanisms. New collagen is formed during the healing process. Collagen is the substance that provides structure to the skin. Microneedling is often combined with radiofrequency energy to deliver energy below the skin to further stimulate collagen regeneration.

How does it work?

Microneedling creates micro-channels in the skin that induce the wound healing cascade. The wound healing cascade releases growth factors that enhance circulation and collagen and elastin production. Over a period of weeks, the skin thickens, and new collagen and elastin are created resulting in skin tightening and improved elasticity that improves the appearance of wrinkles and scars.

Importantly the micro wounds create the opportunity to deliver therapeutic compounds into the skin including platelet rich plasma, and topical vitamins  to enhance the regeneration and improve outcomes.

Does microneedling work and is it safe?

• Microneedling is well studied and shown to be effective alone and in combination with other treatments such as platelet rich plasma.
• It is safe and effective for all skin types including sensitive and thin skin.
• Microneedling has also been studied and shown to treat hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) and stretch marks.

What can be treated with microneedling?

It is safe and effective to treat:

• Surgical scars
• Depressed acne scars
• Aging skin, wrinkles and discolorations
• Sun damage
• Skin laxity
• Enlarged pores
• Stretch marks
• Pattern hair loss

Microneedling for androgenetic hair loss (pattern baldness in men and women)

When used to treat pattern hair loss, the most common type of alopecia, it is often combined with minoxidil or Platelet Rich Plasma. It stimulates stem cells and growth factors that revive hair follicle vascular supply and increases hair density and hair count.

Your cosmetic consultation

At your consultation with Dr. Michael Sotiriou, he will listen to your concerns and cosmetic goals, review your medical history and examine your skin. Dr. Sotiriou will recommend the number of treatments that will address your concerns and achieve your goals. Patients typically need several treatments to achieve their goals. Most patients receive four treatments 4-6 weeks apart to achieve their desired results.

The procedure

The skin will be cleaned, and a topical anesthetic applied. After 30 minutes Dr. Sotiriou will use a medical grade microneedle device with tiny sterile needles to penetrate the skin at a uniform depth creating a controlled injury. The microinjuries cause superficial bleeding and trigger the wound healing cascade releasing growth factors.

The treatment is well tolerated with topical anesthesia and has minimal side effects. After treatment there may be some mild redness and swelling and possibly some skin peeling which should resolve within hours to days. Possible side effects include peeling, itching acne, and flareups of cold sores.

Patients can resume regular daily life the day after treatment and must wear sunscreen to avoid sun exposure to minimize risk of skin discoloration. The process of new collagen generation takes 3-6 months to see full effects.

Microneedling is contraindicated for:

• pregnant women
• patients with active acne or patients who use Accutane
• patients who have active cold sore lesions
• patients with active warts
• chronic skin diseases including eczema,psoriasis, lupus
• patients with a tendency to develop keloid scars
• immunocompromised patients

Contact Dr. Michael Sotiriou at Salt Lake Dermatology & Aesthetics in Salt Lake City Utah to schedule a consultation to learn more about microneedling and other anti-aging treatments to help you face the day!