Everything You Need to Know About Microneedling

From Cosmopolitan

If you've tried all the creams and magic serums in the world yet are still looking for an effective way to treat fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars, you might want to try microneedling. Exactly how it sounds, microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment in which a dermatologist or aesthetician creates tiny punctures in the skin using micro-fine needles (from 0.5 to 2 millimeters in diameter). What this does is triggers the body's wound healing process, stimulating collagen and elastin production. Additionally, once punctures are made, products applied topically (such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C) are able to penetrate deeper into the skin in order to work more effectively. But like any treatment, there are a few factors to consider before deciding whether microneedling is the best choice for you. Here, medical aesthetician and intuitive energy worker Mashell Tabe, who lists Gwyneth Paltrow and Naomi Watts as clients, tells you eight things to know before trying it.

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1. You should schedule a consultation with a professional (i.e. dermatologist or licensed aesthetician) to see if you're a good candidate. Though Tabe says the treatment is great for many different skin types, it's important to let a professional decide whether or not it's right for you. Just be sure to ask questions about their specific process, along with details regarding their clients' skin reactions, and then make sure you're comfortable with those answers.

2. Though similar, microneedling is different from dermarolling. For starters, dermarollers contain super tiny needles that are 0.3 mm or smaller, while a professional, like Tabe, who's microneedling a patient, can use needles with a width that ranges from 0.5 mm to 2 mm. Another way they're different is dermarolling is usually done at-home, which Tabe recommends her clients to do in between monthly microneedling appointments to maintain a glowy result. However, what really sets the two apart is how deep the penetration is when pricking the skin. Both only puncture the skin's outer layer (the epidermis), but while dermarolling promotes increased product absorption (up to 90 percent more!), microneedling goes a little deeper, encouraging the skin to naturally produce collagen and elastin.

3. It's not exactly painless, but the discomfort doesn't linger. Tabe uses a pen that rapidly and repeatedly pokes into the skin to perform the treatment, so it wouldn't be far-fetched to relate the sensation to getting a tattoo. However, Tabe points out that unlike a tattoo, she's only passing over the area once, so the process is quick and easy. As someone who's had it done before, I can confidently say it's not the most painful thing I've ever tried (bikini waxing holds that spot), and the forehead area hurts the worst (but even that is only a five on the pain scale).

4. It's beneficial for both those with acne and those looking to treat wrinkles. Whether your skin has texture to it due to large pores, acne scars, or fine lines, Tabe says this treatment is ideal. According to Tabe, the combination of product penetration and the wound healing process gets rid of bacteria and forces the skin to start up the regeneration process for a fresh start.

5. You'll instantly notice how glowy your skin looks. You might experience a bit of redness immediately following the treatment, but once it subsides, you'll notice a dewy, glowy complexion and a new plumpness to your skin. Tabe recommends receiving the in-office treatment every other month or every month to maintain the results (keep reading to find out how much that'll cost ya).

6. You'll need to keep your skin hydrated following the treatment. Tabe recommends liberally applying formulas with hyaluronic acid, moisturizers with ceramides, and spritzing hydrating water sprays immediately following the treatment - and whenever your skin feels dry, TBH - to soothe the area and calm any redness. Tabe also suggests skipping harsh and abrasive products, like exfoliators and alcohol-based toners, until your skin has healed.

7. You'll also need to chill on going to the gym and sauna for at least 24 hours afterward. Why? You'll want to allow the skin time to heal and avoid sweating and irritation when possible. It's also a good idea to avoid sun exposure for seven to 10 days following the treatment as well to avoid further irritation.

8. It'll cost you. Microneedling could cost upwards of $300 per session, but Tabe, who pairs the treatment with others such as red light treatment and nutrient infusion, charges up to $695 for her clients. But if you're like me and have tried a million creams that just don't seem to be doing anything, it might be worth the investment.

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