How Does Microneedling Change Our Skin?

Microneedling has become increasingly popular in recent years and has become one of the most sought-after cosmetic applications in aesthetic medicine. Not surprising: The trend comes straight from Hollywood and is really hyped by stars and starlets. This technique has the potential to refine the skin and make it radiant. The self-regeneration of the skin reduces structural damage and leads to a reorganization and reconstruction of the skin. This improves the appearance and functionality.

Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment in which fine needles are inserted into the skin using a dermaroller (roller with needles) or dermapen (vibrating pen with needles) to create tiny micro-injuries. This process stimulates the skin's natural regeneration and leads to a variety of positive changes. It helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles and leaves skin looking firmer and more youthful.

In addition, microneedling improves skin texture. The fine needles stimulate cell renewal and promote blood circulation, resulting in smoother and even skin. This can be particularly beneficial for those who suffer from acne scars, large pores, or uneven pigmentation .

Microneedling improves the absorption and effectiveness of skin care products. The tiny channels created by the needles allow skin care 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 and thus lead to improved results.

Medical microneedling vs. cosmetic microneedling

There is a difference between medical and cosmetic microneedling. Medical microneedling may only be carried out by qualified medical professionals (e.g. doctors). The needles are inserted up to 2.5 mm under the skin and thus reach the dermis (also known as the dermis). It consists of collagen fibers and is responsible for the stability and elasticity of our skin.

Because microneedling stimulates collagen production, deeper penetration into the skin produces better results. Medical microneedling is also more suitable for deeper wrinkles and scars. The deeper the needle penetrates the skin, the more effective it is. Since this also carries a higher risk of infections and scarring, it is very important to only have medical microneedling carried out by medical experts.

In cosmetic microneedling, the needles are inserted up to 0.5 mm under the skin . It helps to reduce minor wrinkles, improves the complexion and refines the pores. Pigment spots become lighter or may disappear completely (depending on the frequency of treatment). As a rule, cosmetic microneedling is cheaper than medical microneedling.

Microneedling: process and side effects

Before any treatment, the most important and first step is to cleanse the skin. Before the treatment begins, a local anesthetic cream can be used (usually with 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 treated until the skin turns red. The entire face is usually treated once or twice. The skin is then cleansed and cared for.

It takes up to 24 hours for the fine microchannels in the skin to close again. That's why it's particularly important to avoid sunlight and keep your skin clean. You should avoid excessive sweating (exercise) and make-up for one to two days. During this time, the skin is red - it looks and feels like sunburn - and needs particularly intensive care. After a few days, the skin may peel off. The first results can be seen after about two weeks.

It is recommended to repeat the treatment three to five times at intervals of four to six weeks, depending on the desired result. A further refresher can then be carried out after approx. twelve months.

Experience of the editor

I have already completed my third cosmetic microneedling treatment with the Skin Pen. During the first session, I deliberately didn't google in advance whether microneedling was painful so that I wouldn't have to pinch if necessary. So I didn't know what to expect. Surprisingly , microneedling is really easy to endure . Of course you can feel the needles, but it's more like a pressure or a slight prick.

Interestingly, the pressure was significantly lighter during my second treatment, and a little more intense (but really painless) during the third. This has to do with the hormonal influences on our perception of pain. After the treatment, the skin feels plumper, pigment spots have become lighter and have partially disappeared. My pores are also much finer now. I can definitely recommend trying microneedling.

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