When your skin is injured, it is entirely natural for scar tissue to develop during the healing process. Scar tissue contains more collagen than normal skin. As a result, it tends to have a different texture. Some scars are also discolored, raised, or indented. The appearance of a scar typically improves over time. But sometimes, even months or years later, the scar will still be visible. That’s where microneedling can help.
Microneedling: Defined
Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin treatment. It involves the insertion of many tiny needles into your skin. The tiny needles are used to make multiple microscopic punctures in the area to be treated. The creation of these little wounds stimulates your body’s healing process. Your skin heals the wounds by creating just the right amount of collagen. After you’re healed, your scars will be less obvious.
Types of Scars
Microneedling is a very versatile treatment. It can be used to decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It can even be used to tighten saggy skin. But one of its most common uses is in the treatment of scars. There are several types of scars that respond well to microneedling:
- Fine Line Scars: These long, raised scars are usually the result of surgery or an incision.
- Keloid Scars: These raised, bumpy scars sometimes appear as the result of acne, an insect bite, or even a case of chicken pox.
- Hypertrophic Scars: These scars are raised and flat. They often form as you heal from acne, an injury, or a herpes lesion.
- Pitted Scars: These scars look like little pits in the skin and are often caused by cystic acne.
- Stretch Marks: These scars occur when your skin has to stretch rapidly, such as during pregnancy.
While microneedling is most often used to treat scars on the face, it can also be used to treat scars almost anywhere else on the body.
What To Expect
A microneedling session usually only takes a few minutes. Many patients get these treatments on their lunch breaks. Your practitioner will begin by cleaning the area to be treated. They’ll then apply a numbing cream to minimize your discomfort. Next, they’ll use a special tool to make many tiny punctures in your skin. You might feel some slight pressure or pinching during the treatment, but it should not be overtly painful.
Recovery
You can go back to work or resume your normal routine after microneedling. The treated area will be red and sore. Patients often compare the feeling to that of a sunburn. You should avoid wearing makeup over the treatment area and stay out of the sun for a few days. However, you can expect to recover quickly.
Side effects are rare with microneedling and can almost always be prevented by following your esthetician’s aftercare instructions.
Results
The results of microneedling do take some time to develop. You must give your body time to form new, healthy skin in reaction to the treatment. Most patients start to notice their scars fading or becoming less prominent a few weeks after treatment, but you may not see the full extent of your results for a few months.
If your scar is really large, dark, raised, or heavily textured, you may need more than one microneedling treatment to get the results you desire. Your practitioner should be able to estimate the number of appointments you’ll need by examining your scar, but this will just be an estimate – everyone heals a bit differently.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
If you’re interested in microneedling for your scars, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a skilled practitioner, like those at Balance Med Spa. The practitioners will evaluate your scar and skin health and tell you whether microneedling is right for you.
Most people are good candidates for microneedling as long as they are in good overall health. However, microneedling may not be the best choice if you have a weakened immune system, are in treatment for skin cancer, or are taking certain medications. If microneedling is not right for you, your practitioner can recommend other options, such as scar creams or laser treatments.
Scars can be embarrassing for some, and repeatedly covering them with makeup is not a permanent solution. If you have scars that are making you feel self-conscious, microneedling can help. Contact Balance Med Spa to schedule a consultation in our Orlando office. Our skilled practitioners are proud to offer the latest non-invasive and minimally invasive skin care treatments to help you look and feel your best.