Microneedling
Westlake Dermatology is a leading provider of professional microneedling treatments in Texas, with offices serving the Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio metro areas.
Microneedling (also known as Collagen Induction Therapy) is an innovative skin rejuvenation treatment that can improve the overall appearance of the skin with minimal down-time. The microneedling process involves the creation of microscopic channels through the surface of the skin, which leads to formation of new tissue and releases the skin’s natural growth factors which promotes scar and hyperpigmentation repair and healing. This can be enhanced by application of growth factor gels, kojic acid, and hyaluronic acid based skin rejuvenation treatments.
By creating minor skin injury during the procedure, the skin’s natural healing process initiates the production of new collagen and elastin fibers that thicken the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, acne scarring, sun damage, and stretch marks.
What conditions can microneedling improve?
SkinPen, the device used for microneedling at Westlake Dermatology, is the first and only FDA cleared microneedling device with indications for both the treatment of wrinkles on the neck as well as facial acne scars on adults.
Additionally, microneedle based procedures can be used to effectively treat a variety of issues including:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage and aging spots
- Light to moderate acne scarring
- Stretch marks
- Issues with skin texture or pore size
- Post-surgical scarring
How are microneedling procedures performed?
Microneedling uses a hand-held pen device studded with up to 12 microneedles that range between 0.5mm to 2.5mm in length. Shorter length needles are typically used on the face while longer lengths are used on other areas of the body.
The procedure begins with the application of topical gel to the targeted area of the skin. The pen is then gently pressed against the skin in a single motion, creating tiny punctures (pin pricks) on the top layers of the skin. This process is repeated until the entire treatment area is covered.
Depending on the patient’s desired treatment various topical application based skincare products can then be applied to the area. The micro channels created by the pen allow better absorption into the deeper layers of the skin; increasing the efficacy for a more dramatic result.
For optimal results, a series of treatments is recommended.
What should I expect after the procedure?
Many patients experience light to moderate redness for a period of 24 hours or less after the procedure. In order to minimize redness we recommend patients to avoid direct sunlight and use mineral makeup and hyaluronic acid.
Is microneedling safe for all skin types?
Microneedling is safe for patients with all skin colors (Fitzpatrick scale types) and skin types. There is no risk of pigmentation or post-inflammatory related issues.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Enhancement
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) can be topically applied to the skin in conjunction with a miconeedling treatment to enhance the results. This addition can help reduce lines and wrinkles, plump sagging skin, diminish the appearance of acne scars, and improve the overall texture of the skin.
The process starts with the drawing of a small amount of blood (2-4 tablespoons) from the patient’s arm. The harvested blood is then spun down in a centrifuge and prepared by isolating the cells that contain a large amount of growth factors. These cells are mixed with a small amount of calcium to activate the platelets. The resulting highly concentrated platelet solution is then administered to the treated area, where it is able to penetrate deep into the skin through the micro-punctures created by microneedling.
The treatment typically takes about 45 minutes or less. There is little to no downtime so patients can return to work and normal daily activity shortly after treatment.