From at-home facial tools you can use daily to more advanced treatments performed in a dermatologist’s office a few times a year, microneedling – the procedure in which tiny needles are rolled over the skin to create microscopic punctures that help boost collagen – is continuing its upward trend in the world of anti-aging.
Renowned cosmetic dermatologist and founder of PFRANKMD, Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, recommends microneedling for patients with texture issues, including frizzy skin, acne scars, and large pores. The minimally invasive treatment, which he suggests his patients do once a month for three consecutive months and then twice a year as maintenance, will help “stimulate the natural production of collagen and elastin through micro-damage.” .
A dermaroller for micro-needling medical therapy.
Even more exciting, advances in technology mean that not only can you see results with regular microneedling treatments on your face, but more and more patients are now turning to microneedling for incredible results on others. parts of their body as well.
“I’m very excited about the new advancements in body micro-needling that have been released on existing platforms such as Morpheus and Virtue,” Frank says. “There has been a lack of devices that are truly capable of penetrating deep enough to treat loose, crepey skin on the body. These new advancements allow us to go much further and tighten crepey skin on the body. stomach, knees and inner arms.
Interested in microneedling? Below, Dr. Frank shares his expert recommendations for getting the most out of your treatment. If you want to try microneedling at home, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular devices for the face, body, and even the scalp.
The Dos and Don’ts of Microneedling
Keep it simple after the treatment
“The rule is to keep it simple,” says Dr. Frank. “The microneedling channels are always open right after your treatment and are susceptible to bacteria. I always recommend doing nothing overnight and for a week, just a mild cleanser, moisture, and sunscreen. Try a hylaronic serum to instantly boost skin hydration and a soothing serum for extra recovery benefits.
Be patient
Microneedling with radio frequency takes time to see final results (unlike other treatments such as lasers, where results are visible after a few days), so don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Dr. Frank recommends a few treatments for best results, so keep that in mind when thinking about the “instant gratification” factor that some other treatments offer. Microneedling improves results over time.
Do not use retinols after
Avoid harsh acids and retinols for a week or two after treatment, your skin will be very sensitive. However, you can boost your treatment with a moisturizing mask or serum. Discuss with your dermis which products to use to get the most out of it.
Space out your treatments
Dr. Frank recommends three in-office microneedling treatments if you are new to microneedling (once a month for a duration of three months), followed by twice a year maintenance treatments.
Remember that microneedling is not for all skin types
Microneedling is ideal for those with texture issues, including crepey skin, acne scars, and large pores. Dr. Frank says those with active acne aren’t the best candidates for the procedure. “It’s best to wait until your skin is relatively clear before having a microneedling treatment,” he says.
“If you’re concerned about aging, do something stimulating once a quarter,” he says. Between visits to your dermis for more aggressive treatments, you can do a much lighter version of housekeeping yourself with a derma roller – a gentle at-home micro-needling tool with no downtime you can use while sitting in the comfort of your own living room. Below are some of our favorite at-home face and body devices.