Pro Tips: Dermal Roller and Microneedling Treatments
While relatively simple when compared to today’s high tech laser procedures, microneedling is an extremely effective skin rejuvenation treatment. Microneedling involves the use of a small hand-held device that is studded with 12 fine surgical steel microneedles. These needles vary in depth but commonly range between 0.5mm to 2.5mm. Longer lengths are used for the body while shorter lengths are designed for use on the face.
The micro-pen is glided over a targeted area of skin, creating tiny punctures (pin pricks) in the dermal layer of the skin.
Microneedling Benefits
Microneedling can produce two significant effects for the skin:
- The process creates a minor injury to the skin which initiates the body’s natural healing process. Specifically, it stimulates the production of collagen and fibroblasts. Increased collagen (a protein that promotes skin elasticity) minimizes wrinkles and the visual effects of scarring.
- Microneedle based treatments can also increase skin absorption rates of topical application based treatments. The pin pricks created by the micro needle act as tiny channels through the surface of the skin allowing topical treatments to penetrate deep into the dermal and epidermal layers of the skin.
Tips for DIY Dermal Rollers
The most effective dermal roller treatments are performed in a clinic. However, there are also some devices sold over-the-counter for at-home use. If you’re thinking about using a dermal roller device at home here are some recommendations:
- Follow any instructions provided by the manufacturer of the device.
- Apply manufacturer recommended serums or creams immediately after stamping the skin.
- Use the roller gently; making vertical, horizontal, and diagonal rolls 2-3 times in the same area. Avoid pressing too hard as excessive pressure can lead to skin irritation.
- Make sure to stay at least a half an inch from your eyes and lips.
- To prevent contamination make sure to thoroughly and properly clean and dry your dermal roller device after each use.
Enhancing Treatments with Microneedling
Microneedling can be a powerful delivery agent for various skin rejuvenation treatments including:
- Kojic acid: A gentle and proven skin lightener and no toxic issues in conjunction. Microneedling can gently even out pigmentation in the skin.
- Hyaluronic acid: “Super” hydration ingredient combined with microneedling will give the skin immediate and long-lasting hydration.
A united group of skin care specialists from Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, Austin's leader in Dermatology and Plastic Surgery. Articles posted under WD staff are authored through combined contributions from our entire team, including Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists, Aestheticians, Physician Assistants, Aesthetic Nurses, and Patient Coordinators.
I am interested in a consultation for microneedling?
Hi Mia, thanks for your interest. We’ll reach out to you via email shortly.
Can I please get a price on per session for mirco needing.
Hi Grace, please give us a call at 512.328.3376 for pricing. The price for micro needling can vary depending on individual needs and goals.
Thanks,
WD Staff
I just had my first professional micro-needle treatment and it was way better than doing it at home. highly recommend!
I had no idea that there were different types of skin rejuvenation treatments you could apply through micro-needling. We do offer micro-needling but we are not combining that with other topical treatments. Thanks for the tips! We’ll look into other ways to provide the treatment to our patients.
Hi! What device is used for microneedling?
Hi Arturo,
Thanks for reading our post and submitting your great question. For standard microneedling we use a custom skin pin specifically developed by our providers. The device allows for customizing penetration depths to enable our providers to tailor the treatment for differing patient need.
We not also provide radiofrequency (RF) microneedling via Genius RF (see https://www.westlakedermatology.com/cosmetic-procedures/laser/genius-rf-microneedling/ for more info).
Thanks
WD Staff