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Microneedling: Unlocking the Secrets to Radiant Skin
In Albuquerque and across the United States, skin damage is a common concern for many. 50 million Americans alone struggle with acne, and it presents itself in various forms. To address these skin concerns and rejuvenate the skin, a minimally invasive skincare treatment known as microneedling has become increasingly popular.
Commonly performed on the face, microneedling can also target other areas with damaged or aging skin, such as the legs, back, and neck. To achieve optimal results, multiple treatments are typically required.
Microneedling vs. Microdermabrasion: A Comparative Analysis
Both microneedling and microdermabrasion are designed to improve skin texture and appearance. However, microdermabrasion, which uses a device with a rough surface to exfoliate the uppermost skin layer, doesn't involve needles. Microneedling penetrates deeper into the skin, making it more effective for addressing underlying issues like acne scars. This type of approach to skin care is ideal for those with sun damage to the skin, acne or acne scarring, reduced collagen production, and other similar concerns.
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Who Can Benefit from Microneedling?
Individuals seeking cosmetic or medical improvements may consider microneedling for concerns like:
- Enlarged pores
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Loose or crepey skin
- Mild scars, particularly from acne or burns
- Skin discoloration or uneven tone
- Stretch marks
Microneedling may also benefit those with medical conditions such as alopecia areata (hair loss due to autoimmune disease) and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). In some cases, healthcare providers use microneedling to deliver drugs or vaccines directly into the skin via a patch, offering an alternative to traditional injections.
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Who Should Avoid Microneedling?
Consult your healthcare provider before undergoing microneedling if you have:
- Active acne or are taking acne medication
- Blood disorders or are on anticoagulants (blood clot prevention medications)
- Cancer and are receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- Frequent skin rashes (contact dermatitis) or cold sores
- Keloidal tendency (formation of hard, raised scars)
- Moles, freckles, skin tags, or other growths that change in size, shape, or bleed
- Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis
- Preparing for Your Microneedling Procedure
Before microneedling, you'll have a consultation with a healthcare provider—typically a plastic surgeon, dermatologist, or aesthetician. The provider will examine your skin, review your health history, and discuss your goals for the treatment. This is an ideal time to ask questions about microneedling, such as potential risks, side effects, and expected results.
About a month prior to the appointment, your healthcare provider may ask you to apply vitamin A or C creams to your skin to kickstart collagen production.
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The Microneedling Procedure
Before microneedling, your healthcare provider will cleanse your skin and apply a numbing cream or ointment, such as lidocaine gel. They will then use a handheld roller or an electric tool with tiny needles to create micro-wounds in your skin. The procedure can take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours, depending on the area being treated.
Post-Microneedling Care and Recovery
Microneedling is an outpatient procedure, so you can return home afterward. In general, the recovery time only lasts 24 hours. However, recovery time will often be different depending on the person and can last up to 2 to 3 days. Your skin may also appear red and swollen for up to five days, but applying an ice pack can help alleviate discomfort. Most people can wear makeup the day after the procedure, but it's crucial to avoid sun exposure until the skin heals.
After the healing process, you can expect results to last anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks. If you’re ready to see an improvement in the texture of your skin, the appearance of lines and wrinkles, or even the decrease in hyperpigmentation, schedule a free consultation in ABQ today.
