How Microneedling Changes Our Skin

Microneedling has become increasingly popular in recent years and is now one of the most sought-after cosmetic treatments in aesthetic medicine. No wonder: the trend comes straight from Hollywood and is being hyped by stars and starlets. This technique has the potential to refine the skin and make it glow. Self-regeneration of the skin reduces structural damage and leads to reorganisation and reconstruction of the skin. This improves the appearance and functionality of the skin.

Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment in which fine needles are inserted into the skin using a derma roller or derma pen to create tiny micro-injuries. This process stimulates the skin's natural regeneration and leads to a variety of positive changes. It helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, making the skin look firmer and more youthful.

Microneedling also improves skin texture. The fine needles stimulate cell renewal and improve circulation, resulting in smoother, more even skin. This can be particularly beneficial for people suffering from acne scars, large pores or uneven pigmentation.

Microneedling improves the absorption and efficacy of skincare products. The tiny channels created by the needles allow skincare products to penetrate deeper into the skin and deliver their active ingredients more effectively. Products such as vitamin C serums, hyaluronic acid and peptides are better absorbed by the skin, leading to improved results.

Medical vs. cosmetic microneedling

There is a difference between medical and cosmetic microneedling. Medical microneedling can only be performed by qualified medical professionals (e.g. doctors). The needles are inserted up to 2.5mm under the skin, reaching the dermis. The dermis is made up of collagen fibres and is responsible for the stability and elasticity of our skin.

Because microneedling stimulates collagen production, it achieves better results by penetrating deeper into the skin. Medical microneedling is also better for deeper wrinkles and scars. This is because the deeper the needle penetrates the skin, the more effective it is. As there is a higher risk of infection and scarring, medical microneedling must be only carried out by medical professionals.

Cosmetic microneedling involves inserting needles up to 0.5mm under the skin. It helps to reduce fine lines, improve skin texture and refine pores. Pigmentation may fade or disappear (depending on the frequency of treatments). Cosmetic microneedling is usually less expensive than medical microneedling.

Microneedling: procedure and side effects

The first and most important step before any treatment is cleaning the skin. Before the treatment begins, a topical anaesthetic cream can be used (usually for medical microneedling). During the treatment, depending on the desired result, active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or vitamins are applied and worked deep into the skin using needles. The face is needled until the skin turns red. The entire face is usually treated once or twice. The skin is then cleansed and nourished.

It takes up to 24 hours for the fine microchannels in the skin to close again. It is important to avoid sunlight and keep the skin clean. Excessive sweating (sports) and make-up should be avoided for one to two days. During this time, the skin will be reddened - it looks and feels like a sunburn - and needs extra care. After a few days, the skin may start to peel. The first results can be seen after about two weeks.

Depending on the desired result, it is recommended to repeat the treatment three to five times at four to six-week intervals. A refresher treatment can then be carried out after approximately twelve months.

Pain from microneedling: Editor's experience

I have already had my third cosmetic microneedling treatment with the Skin Pen. Before the first session, I deliberately didn't google whether microneedling is painful so that I wouldn't have to pinch myself. So I didn't know what to expect. Surprisingly, microneedling is quite tolerable. Of course, you can feel the needles, but it's more like pressure or a light prick.

Interestingly, the pressure was much less during my second treatment and a little more intense during the third (but really painless). This has to do with the hormonal influences on our perception of pain. After the treatment, my skin feels firmer and the pigmentation marks have faded and partly disappeared. My pores are also much smaller. I can definitely recommend giving microneedling a try.

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