Permanent Makeup & Aesthetics In Maine

What is Micro-needling?

Micro-needling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that’s used to treat skin concerns via collagen production. Also known as collagen induction therapy, this treatment may help those looking to reduce the appearance of acne scars and stretch marks. It’s also used in certain anti-aging procedures, such as eyelid surgery and sun spots. Micro-needling isn’t effective for hair loss, despite the possible role of collagen in hair growth. You may be an ideal candidate for this procedure if you’re in good health and have certain skin concerns that haven’t responded to home treatments or other types of dermatologic procedures, such as peels. This may also be a final step before considering cosmetic surgery for anti-aging and other concerns. Learn more about micro-needling and talk to your dermatologist to see if this is the right option for your skin.

How much does Micro-needling cost?

Most face treatments run around $750 each session. We also have special package pricing, all you need to do is ask. Since micro-needling is considered a cosmetic or aesthetic procedure, it’s not covered by insurance, however we do take Care Credit & HSA Cards. We also offer a structured payment plan as well as in house offer financing.

How does Micro-needling work?

Microneedling works by encouraging your skin to make more collagen. The idea is that pinpricks from the procedure cause slight injury to the skin and that the skin responds by making new collagen-rich tissue. This new skin tissue is, in turn, more even in tone and texture. It’s normal for the skin to lose collagen via age or injury. By encouraging the skin to make new tissue, there may be more collagen to help make the skin firmer, too.

Procedure for Microneedling

During the procedure, the tech will make small pricks under the skin with a pen-like tool. The pinpricks are so small that you likely won’t notice them after the procedure. The tech will move the tool evenly across your skin so that the new skin that rejuvenates will be even, too.

Before getting started, the tech will use a topical anesthetic to reduce the chances of pain. This is done about an hour before your treatment. The actual micro-needling process takes approximately 30 minutes. The tech may then apply a serum or calming treatment. In total, you can expect to be at the office for a couple of hours at least.

Targeted areas for Microneedling

Microneedling is most often used on your face to target:

• acne scars
• age spots (also called “sun spots”)
• fine lines and wrinkles
• large pores
• other types of scarsTrusted Source
• reduced skin elasticity
• uneven skin tone

In addition to facial concerns, microneedling is sometimes used to treat stretch marks in other areas of the body.

*It should be noted that microneedling has shown effective for stretch marks on the thighs and abdominal area when combined with fillers.

*Scarring on other body parts may also be treated with this procedure. However, microneedling is primarily used on the face.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Like all cosmetic procedures, microneedling isn’t without risk. The most common side effect is minor skin irritation immediately following the procedure. You may also see redness for a few days. Call your doctor if you notice more severe side effects, such as:

• bleeding
• bruising
• infection
• peeling

You may not be an ideal candidate for microneedling if you:

• are pregnant
• have certain skin diseases, such as psoriasis or eczema
• have open wounds
• have had radiation therapy recently
• have a history of skin scars

What to expect after Microneedling

Microneedling isn’t invasive like plastic surgery, so the recovery time is minimal. Most people require very little downtime, if any at all. You may notice skin irritation and redness within the first few days following the procedure. This is a natural response to the small “injuries” made by the needles in your skin. You can go back to work or school after the procedure if you’re comfortable. Your skin will also be more sensitive to the sun, so sunscreen is a must. After microneedling, your skin works fairly quickly to rejuvenate new tissue. In theory, you should see results within a couple of weeks. To maintain the results of your treatment, you’ll need multiple sessions and perhaps other complementing treatments. Your doctor will advise you on the best plan of action based on your individual goals.

Preparing for your Appointment

Before the procedure, talk to your doctor about ways you can prepare so you have the best possible outcome. You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as ibuprofen and those for acne treatment, well in advance of the procedure. Your tech may also recommend that you stop using topical retinoids beforehand too. Doing so may reduce the risk of certain side effects.

Micro-needling VS Home Rollers

Micro-needling is a professional procedure that’s performed by a licensed technician only. In an effort to save money, some people opt for home rollers instead. Unlike professional microneedling, rollers don’t puncture the skin hardly at all. While this might seem a less painful option, the problem is that you won’t achieve the same results. The punctures made during professional micro-needling are designed to induce skin rejuvenation.