What is it?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive method discovered in 1995 by Orentreich & Orentreich for the treatment of scars. Since then, it has evolved and is now used to address various skin conditions, serving as a simple, safe, and effective method that is widely popular.
What technique is used?
Microneedles are used with lengths ranging from 250μm to 3000μm. The available methods are:
- The dermaroller. This is a special cylinder with microneedles of the same length protruding across its entire surface. It essentially “rolls” over the skin. It comes in a sealed, sterile package and is for individual use by each patient.
- Dermapen devices. This is an electrical device that resembles a pen with disposable microneedle tips at its end and controls to adjust the depth (0.25-3mm) and speed of the needles.
- Fractional microneedling radiofrequency machines.
How does it work?
The microneedles penetrate the skin and create a controlled injury, resulting in collagen stimulation and skin regeneration. Specifically, the process leads to the release of a series of growth factors, which stimulate fibroblasts, reorganize collagen fibers, and lead to the production of new collagen and elastin by the fibroblasts, as well as new capillaries in the skin.
Additionally, microscopic channels are created that, depending on the needle length, reach different depths in the skin and allow for the deeper penetration of selected substances. This makes it a form of mesotherapy that also provides skin tightening and regeneration.
Microneedling applications in dermatology
- Scars (acne, chickenpox)
- Stretch marks
- Melasma and facial dyschromia
- Alopecia (androgenetic type, alopecia areata)
- Anti-aging (wrinkles, enlarged pores)
Advantages of microneedling
- Suitable for all skin types.
- Allows for personalized treatment depending on the problem (the treatment plan requires 3-12 sessions).
- Results are visible from the first session.
- Low cost per session.
- A painless procedure (anesthetic cream is only used for longer needles, while for needles up to 0.75mm, no anesthetic cream preparation is required).
- Fast recovery (from 1 hour to 2 days).
- A safe method (there is no risk of burns, hyperpigmentation, bruising, or inflammation when hygiene and antiseptic rules are followed).
- Allows for the deep penetration of mesotherapeutic substances (effectiveness).
- It can be combined with other methods for treating scars (peelings) or anti-aging (PRP or autologous mesotherapy) for even better results.
Microneedling contraindications
- An area with active inflammation (e.g., active acne) or a skin wound.
- Patients who have taken isotretinoin for acne in the last three months.
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding.
- Patients with an active herpes simplex flare-up.
- Patients with a history of keloid or hypertrophic scars.