Microneedling Before and After: What Results Can You Expect?
Microneedling (also known as Collagen Induction Therapy) has gained increasing popularity among individuals seeking to improve their skin’s texture, color, and brightness. But what is that treatment all about? What effects are you going to be able to witness? In this article, we will explain the entire process of the microscopic needles penetrating the skin, give you some tips on what to do before and after a Microneedling session, and discuss the real perks people claim to have achieved with Microneedling.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling- is a skin rejuvenation method that creates microscopic wounds in the skin layers using a series of very tiny needles. Such wounds, however, are not very painful and do not require any special treatment, as they won’t even be visible; moreover, the body’s repair mechanism is activated (increased collagen and elastin production), resulting in the skin becoming very smooth and youthful-looking.
Microneedling is primarily directed at the skin problems in general, such as the fine lines and wrinkles being reduced; the skin tone and texture have become better; the skin being totally scar-free or almost so from acne and other causes; hyperpigmentation (dark spots due to excess melanin production) being treated; and pore size being reduced.
Under the surface, stimulating and controlling the dermis leads to healthier-looking skin that is smoother, tighter, firmer, and ultimately, younger.
Microneedling Before and After: What Changes to Expect
Microneedling treatments stimulate the skin’s ability to regenerate; therefore, you will see immediate and long-lasting changes in your skin following a treatment.
Before Microneedling: Preparing for the Procedure
Microneedling is an excellent treatment if selected rightly, so first of all, you need to have a proper consultation with a dermatologist or an aesthetician who is proficient and has experience. The dermatologist or aesthetician will examine your skin type and talk about your expectations, and at the same time, he/she will give you all the information regarding the results, risks, and other details during the consultation.
Sun exposure, harsh skincare products, and waxing are to be avoided at least a week prior to the microneedling procedure. In addition, keeping your skin clean and drinking enough water is other ways to prepare it for microneedling.
During the procedure
On the treatment day, your skincare professional will cleanse your face and put on a numbing cream to lessen the pain. While the cream is taking effect, the microneedling device will either be rolled or stamped over the areas being treated.
The sessions generally take 30 to 60 minutes, according to the size of the area being treated. Pain may occur; however, most individuals consider the treatment to be bearable.
After Microneedling: What to Expect
24–72 Hours After
The majority of people experience redness and irritation (resembling sunburn) as well as tightness within 24-72 hours post-treatment. These symptoms generally subside over time, and it is then that new skin begins to appear smooth. However, people may experience flaky or dry skin after their treatments.
1–2 Weeks After
Patients typically observe visible changes in their skin’s appearance, including a more even skin tone, smaller pores, and an overall smoother appearance, within the first one to two weeks.
4–6 Weeks After
Patients will see the most significant results of enhanced firmness as well as substantial improvement of scars and fine lines after 4-6 weeks due to collagen remodeling.
After Multiple Sessions
The final and most notable results from microneedling treatment are realized after completing a series of 3-6 treatments for difficult-to-treat issues such as severe acne scarring or deeper wrinkles, resulting in dramatic improvement of skin texture and overall systemic rejuvenation. The ongoing transformation of the skin shows the long-lasting benefits of microneedling for skin renewal.
Microneedling Benefits
By boosting the amount of collagen produced, the skin’s rough texture is minimized, resulting in an improved complexion, firmer, more youthful-looking skin with a bright glow.
- More collagen created will reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve your overall youthful complexion.
- Microneedling causes break-down of scar tissue, which will over time reduce acne scars and stretch marks.
- As a result of increased collagen production, pore size will become smaller and appear less noticeable.
Microneedling is considered very safe and is effective for many skin types.
People Who May Benefit From Microneedling Are Those Who
- Have mild to moderate skin texture concerns such as rough patches, bumps, etc.
- Have acne scars or other types of minor scarring,
- Have early signs of aging (fine lines, looseness of skin),
- Have dull skin that has lost its natural glow.
Those who are not typical candidates for microneedling include patients who…
- Are pregnant
- Have an active acne outbreak or cold sore at the time of treatment,
- Have an active skin infection (especially if you are taking a prescription medication for acne, like Accutane)
Need to discuss your complete medical history with the provider before treatment.
How to Get Ready for Your Microneedling Appointment?
Microneedling appointment preparation is a procedure that guarantees correct treatment and is the most important of all steps during the day. You will, therefore, be ready for successful results.
Retinol-based topical products, exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA), and abrasive scrubs are to be avoided at least 5 days before the appointment since they may cause skin damage. Also, during this period, try not to get too much sun and do not go to the tanning beds.
The best way to be presentable for your appointment is to have a clean face, free of makeup/lotion, and to ask your doctor for a discussion about all the current prescription drugs and skincare routines before your appointment.
Aftercare Tips for the Best Results
Your post-procedure care is key to healing and getting the most collagen production:
- Stay out of direct sunlight for 48–72 hours.
- For the first week, use only the mild, hydrating products your provider recommends.
- Don’t apply makeup for at least 24 hours so the micro-channels can close.
- Skip intense workouts, saunas, and steam rooms for 24–48 hours to limit inflammation.
- Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every day, even when it’s cloudy.
How Many Sessions Do You Need?
You may see some improvement after one treatment, but rebuilding collagen usually takes a series:
Standard treatment plan: Most people need at least 3–6 sessions.
Session spacing: Treatments are typically scheduled 4–6 weeks apart to allow complete healing and time for collagen remodeling.
Severe concerns: If a patient has deep acne scarring or pronounced wrinkles, they may need extra sessions to reach the desired result.
Conclusion
Microneedling is an effective skin rejuvenation procedure that can give your skin a completely new look and health. When you are already aware of the effects of the procedure, you may very well start your microneedling treatment with assurance, as you know that you are moving towards the right direction for your skincare goals.
So, if you are prepared to put money into skin that is smoother, clearer, and younger in appearance, then the trick is to stick to a personalized treatment plan. We are pleased to invite you to schedule a consultation today to talk about your particular issues and for our professionals to create a custom microneedling plan just for you.