Microneedling

Microneedling is most commonly used on the face.  However, microneedling can also be done off the face to treat stretch marks & loose skin.  Other treatment areas include neck, décolleté & scalp (to stimulate hair growth). 

In general, you can expect the results of microneedling with PRF to last for up to 1 year (after the competition of the initial series of 3 sessions).  You can increase the longevity by having a great home skincare regimen using medical grade products.  Some clients may benefit from a maintenance program with quarterly procedures to keep skin looking its best. 

On average, it takes 2-3 weeks after microneedling for clients to see visible improvement in their skin.  Skin improves even more after 6-8 weeks as results are cumulative with multiple treatment sessions.  However, some skin conditions require longer investment & treatment period.  Acne scars typically need as many as 6 treatments, with scar subcision & treatments spaced 1 month apart.  Those who just want to improve the overall tone & texture of their skin can usually get great results in about 3 treatments. 

There is minimal downtime, and it may look like you have a sunburn for 12-24 hours after the procedure. Your skin may also feel tight, dry, swollen, or sensitive to the touch for up to 3 days.It is essential to have the correct home post-microneedling skincare regimen to speed up healing & enhance the results. 

• I highly recommend medical grade skin care for at least 2 weeks prior to your appointment to decrease any skin inflammation that may be present (I can suggest a personalized skin care regimen for you).
• Increase your fluid intake starting at least 2 days prior to your visit.
• Do not expose your skin to the sun or tanning beds for 2 weeks prior.
• Botox or fillers may be done 2 weeks prior to microneedling.
• Avoid chemical peels for 3 weeks prior to microneedling.
• Stop all AHA products, Retin A, Renova, or Retinol on areas to be treated 5 days prior to treatment.
• Do not take Aspirin, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, vitamin E, fish oil or Ginkgo Biloba for 10 days prior to treatment. You may take Tylenol if needed.
• No Coumadin or Accutane in the last 6 months.
• If you are prone to cold sores/herpes breakouts, you may start a prescription for antiviral medication (I can provide it if needed).
• Taking a supplement of vitamin C (like Emergen-C, 1000 mg 2x/day) can accelerate healing & promote new collagen.
• Please reschedule for shingles, active contact dermatitis, acne, herpes/cold sores or warts, current skin cancer treatment, immunosuppression, & pregnancy/lactation.

• You’ll look like you have a mild sunburn and may have some swelling for 12-24 hours. There is very little down time.
• Do not touch your skin for 5 hours as plasma and serum need time to work.
• You may rinse your face with warm water (no cleanser) the next morning. Gently pat dry the skin with a clean towel.
• Do not exfoliate, rub or scratch the skin at any time. This may compromise your results & cause scarring.
• Skin may feel tight, dry, have rough texture or itch for up to 7-10 days.
• You may apply hyaluronic acid, gentle moisturizer and mineral based SPF 24 hours after treatment (we can help you select the right products).
• You can start wearing makeup (if desired) in 72 hours.
• You may resume using topical vitamin C, Retin-A, and Hydroquinone after 1 week.
• For the next 2 days, sleep on your back with your head elevated.
• You may resume exercise 24 hours after treatment.
• Avoid direct sunlight for 48 hours and use at least 50 SPF (you may purchase one at our office).
• Avoid chemical peels for 3 weeks after microneedling.
• Botox & fillers may be done 2 weeks after microneedling.
• Use of nicotine-containing products diminishes the oxygen supply to the skin & decreases healing.
• Timeline of improvements to expect:
• Day 1-2 (normally 24 hours): Erythema & mild swelling subside.
• Day 2-7: Increased exfoliation & dryness.
• 1 week onwards: Improvement in texture & tone.
• 3 weeks onward: Improvement in pigmentation.
• 6 weeks onward: Improvement in wrinkles/lines, scars.