There's no shortage of skin procedures out there these days. From laser treatments to Botox, it seems like there's a new solution for every skin issue. With so many options, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Enter microneedling.

Microneedling is a minimally-invasive skin procedure that's been gaining buzz in recent years thanks to its ability to improve the look of scars, wrinkles, and more with little to no downtime. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about how microneedling works and the benefits of this buzzworthy skin procedure.

What Does It Do for Your Skin?

What is microneedling? Microneedling is a skin procedure that uses small needles to create microscopic punctures in the top layer of skin. This may sound painful (and let's be honest, a little bit scary), but the process is actually quite fast and relatively painless thanks to numbing cream that's applied beforehand. The purpose of these punctures is to stimulate the body's natural healing response, which then leads to the production of new collagen and elastin. This boost in collagen and elastin helps improve the appearance of scars, wrinkles, fine lines, and more. 

Microneedling can be performed on its own or in combination with other treatments like Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP). PRP is a concentration of platelets and growth factors derived from your blood. When injected into the skin, PRP helps further stimulate collagen production and can even help speed up the healing process. 

Say Goodbye to Scarring

One of the main reasons people turn to microneedling is to improve the appearance of scars and for a good reason. Clinical studies have shown that microneedling can help improve the appearance of scarring caused by acne, surgery, and even burns. Not only does microneedling help improve the texture of scars, but it can also help reduce their overall appearance by breaking up scar tissue and stimulating new collagen production. 

Maintenance Is Key

While microneedling can produce some pretty incredible results, it is important to remember that results are not permanent. In order to maintain your results, most dermatologists recommend getting repeat treatments every four to six weeks. After a few initial treatments, you may be able to extend the time between treatments to eight or twelve weeks. 

Leave It to the Pros

Microneedling may be a minimally-invasive procedure, but that doesn't mean it should be taken lightly. The reality is that because microneedling involves needles penetrating your skin, there's always a risk of infection if the procedure is not performed properly. That is why it's so important to leave this procedure to the professionals. Dermatologists and licensed estheticians have undergone extensive training in proper needle techniques and sterilization procedures, so you can rest assured you're in good hands. 

Derma Rolling vs. Microneedling

The terms "derma rolling" and "microneedling" are often used interchangeably, but there is actually a big difference between these two treatments. Derma rolling is a type of microneedling that uses a manual roller device with hundreds of tiny needles to puncture the skin. Microneedling, on the other hand, uses a pen-like device with fewer (and often larger) needles to puncture the skin. 

Both treatments are effective at reducing scarring and stimulating collagen production—but many experts believe that microneedling is more effective than derma rolling because it causes less damage to the skin overall. 

Experience the Power of Microneedling

If you are looking for a safe and effective way to reduce scarring, stimulate collagen production, and improve the overall appearance of your skin, microneeding may be right for you. 

To learn more about this popular skincare treatment or to book an appointment with one of our certified aestheticians at Bellevue Medical Aesthetic Center, call us today at (425) 896-8270 or fill out our online form.