Beautician Lorraine Quinn shares everything we need to know about the latest skincare treatment, micro-needling.

There’s always a new treatment that promises younger looking skin and more recently micro-needling (also known as Collagen Induction Therapy) has been heralded as a non-invasive way to achieve youthful, dewy looking skin.

But what is it and does it really deliver results?

What is Micro-needling?

It’s a treatment whereby a device with small needles is pushed or rolled over your face and neck area to create controlled punctures, which force your skin into repair mode.

Those with a fear of needles shouldn’t discard this technique straight away as, depending on the device used, the micro-needle length can vary from 0.5 to 3.0 mm, which is incredibly tiny compared to a traditional needle. And, these devices are gentle enough to be used around the delicate eye area.

Micro-needling can also be used on the body to eliminate stretch marks.

What are the benefits of Micro-needling?

When your skin starts repairing itself it turbocharges your body’s natural ability to produce collagen and elastin, which provides that firm plumpness.

It also helps improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks and creates a more youthful skin tone.

 

What should you expect from a professional Micro-needling treatment?

The idea of rolling small needles over your skin might sound like torture, but the procedure starts with your face being anesthetized with topical cream and has minimal downtime.

The treatment can be tailored to the specific needs of the patient and can result in just a few hours of redness, mild swelling and erythema (red patches).

However, depending on your tolerance levels, these symptoms can last for one to two days and you can also experience pinpoint bleeding and bruising.

 

How many and how often will you need to have a treatment?

The number of sessions depends on the skin condition, but typically you’re looking at 3-5 treatments in 4-6 week intervals with maintenance treatments every 6-9 months.

When can you expect to see results from Micro-needling?

The final results might not be noticeable until you hit the six to twelve-week mark as boosting collagen and elastin within the dermis takes time.

However, as with most treatments, it depends on the individual.

When should you avoid Micro-needling?

It can be used on all skin colours and skin types, however it should be avoided if one has an active infection on the skin such as impetigo, active inflamed acne or rosacea.

Those with hypersensitive skin, acute eczema or sun burnt skin should also avoid the technique.