Dermal Needling
Generally, it is considered safe for most skin types and colours. Collagen production and remodelling is successful dependent on the accurate targeting of the dermis. Needling is a great alternative to achieving skin resurfacing and helping to produce a new collagen layer on the dermis. Really good results can be achieved for acne scarring and an uneven texture and colour.
The Procedure
The natural injury response involves four major phases, which stimulates the growth of new tissue. For the first few days after injury (Dermal Needling) the inflammatory response promotes the fibroblasts proliferation and response of chemotaxis. Platelets from the body also initiate the wound matrix, at this stage it helps to remove bacteria and debris and stimulates the next phase of proliferation.
At the second phase (day 4 to 6) proliferation of fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and monocytes continues. New collagen will be then deposited for formation of new tissue. For the phase of fibrotic response (day 7 to 22) growth factors are created and released, while collagen is released by fibroblasts. After treatment (from day 28 to two years) new skin grows, which is regarded as the maturation stage. Collagen stiffens and matures and the new tissue has 80% of the tensile strength.
The advantages of Dermal Needling
In order to increase the product absorption some brands of Dermal Needling have now introduced an automatic vibrating function. This function can successfully enhance the success rate of the treatment as well as reducing discomfort and pain for patients. They also offer various parameters for practitioners including the speed and depth of the needle. It can help to enhance the success rate of the treatments because product absorption is increased. This also reduces the patient downtime and pain.
After Treatment
Immediately after treatment, your face may be quite red and puffy. You may also experience any one or more of the following temporary side effects:
- redness (decreasing over a few days)
- bruising (lasting up to one week)
- under eye puffiness (not common)
- lines or marks from the roller (fade very quickly)
The results from treatment may take a few weeks to become apparent. New collagen can continue to develop for a few months after the treatment. Response to the treatment will vary from individual to individual.
Post Treatment Suggestions
Always ask your practitioner what to do post-treatment. Here is a general guide.
Paw paw ointment or similar is a great way to assist in sealing the treatment area straight after the treatment (make sure the ointment you choose is a natural product – again, check with your practitioner).
DAY 1 & 2 – Wash face with water only and reapply your ointment. Avoid direct sun exposure, excessive heat and chemicals.
DAY 3 – You can now introduce your usual home care products such as cleansers, moisturisers, rosehip oil, etc. It is absolutely essential that you wear sunblock every day to prevent sun damage while the area is healing.
DAY 4 onwards – You can now introduce your usual make up application routine (preferably mineral make up).
Risks and Complications
After the treatments, physicians normally provide aftercare instructions for you. By following those instructions you should prevent any side effects, reducing chances of redness, itching, swelling and even discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When can I see visible results?
A: After about 6-8 weeks, you can generally see the results of treatment from skin rejuvenation. The results can even improve in the coming future.
Q: What areas of the skin can be treated?
A: Dermal Needling can treat sensitive areas that other treatments have to avoid, such as below the eyes, the neck and the back of hands.
Q. How many treatments are recommended?
A: Four to eight treatments, up to six weeks apart is recommended.
Q: What I can expect to see after the treatment?
A: Day 1: Red appearance and erythema might occur, depending on the aggressive of the treatment.
Day 2: A pink hue or red hue persists looking like moderate sunburn. Swelling may be anticipated on the coming day.
Day 3: Skin can be normal colour or pink. Swelling subsides.