We talked about microneedling in 2016, but it appears the trend is only getting more exposure in 2017 as more and more people realize the anti-aging benefits of using small needles to stimulate collagen production and combat scarred, wrinkled, or pigmented skin.

Shape magazine’s Jan. 26 article tells its readers why they should know about and use microneedling in their skin care.

The bottom line? One of the biggest attractions to microneedling is that it actually induces the skin to produce more collagen and elastin – creating firmer skin while eliminating scars and wrinkles. Microneedling is also used to treat and improve conditions such as fine lines and wrinkles, acne scarring, skin texture, loose skin, stretch marks, pore size, brown spots, pigment issues such as melasma, and rosacea.

During the procedure, 1 mm to 3 mm needles are “rolled” across the patient’s skin. The needles cause micro-injuries that then stimulate the body’s natural response to create collagen and elastin. A numbing agent is used to make the procedure more comfortable.

The article addresses at-home derma rollers, but it doesn’t go into some of the reasons to avoid DIY microneedling. Click here to read more about why you should skip derma rollers and go to the clinic. (Spoiler alert: At-home derma rollers can’t create the collagen-boosting effect seen in the clinic.)

Typically, an initial series of three to five microneedling treatments are spaced four to six weeks apart, with maintenance treatments scheduled at six and 12 months.

While microneedling is safe for all skin types, people with naturally dark skin should discuss this treatment with a skin care professional to find out if it is right for them. If you have an active infection or active acne, then the procedure may not be right for you.

About Jennifer

Jennifer Curtin is a medical aesthetician who is nationally recognized for her expertise in medical skin care. With more than 20 years of experience in medical aesthetics, she is dedicated to the aesthetic industry and has received awards of merit including the International CIDESCO Certification, Assistant Cosmetic Laser Practitioner and National Leadership Award. Jennifer is also an expert in skin tightening procedures and the president of Skintherapy, a med spa located in the Buckhead section of Atlanta. To schedule an appointment with Jennifer, call 404-358-2961 or click here.