Micro needling: Natural Collagen Building
Are you wanting to enhance the quality of your skin? Do you have acne scars from breakouts over the years? Do you want to reduce the fine lines and wrinkles (with or without Botox?) for long lasting skin anti aging?
Also known as collagen injection therapy, Micro-Needling (MN) is a minimally invasive facial rejuvenation treatment that stimulates the skin’s natural healing process and remodels the skin. Through the creation of these intentional micro traumas the production of collagen and elastin are significantly enhanced, while the absorption of products is increased up to 2,000%. The overall effect is a more even skin tone that appears firm and glows. Microneedling treats the skin as well as underlying issues so the overall health of the skin is addressed!
Collagen Injection therapy
When I hit my 40s, I noticed more detrimental changes in my skin. More sagging, less elasticity, deeper wrinkles. Unfortunately, starting in our late 20s and 30s, collagen production decreases 1% per year. By our 40s collagen production is significantly diminished.
Microneedling moves blood, qi, and interstitial fluid to the area of treatment. Much like acupuncture, this causes the body to send its own resources to repair it. In the face, this repair can be seen almost immediately post-treatment through the brightening of Shen or glow. In Western biomedical terms, the body is beginning its inflammatory response to put down new stem cells, collagen, and elastin.
Microneedling essentially “tricks” the skin into thinking it’s been injured, encouraging natural cellular turnover, repair, and rejuvenation while improving its overall appearance. So with MN, the controlled injury stimulates the replacement of old or damaged skin cells with newer, healthier ones. This turnover process improves skin tone, fades hyperpigmentation, and smooths out rough texture. It also promotes the growth of new capillaries, improving skin health and radiance.
Microneedling is amazing for acne scarred skin. Most of us have some degree of acne scarring from our hormonal younger years. With cellular turnover leading to the resurfacing of the skin, we can significantly reduce visible acne scarring with microneedling!
MicroNeedling Results
- First 24–48 hours: Skin begins healing with increased blood flow and immune response. Temporary redness and swelling are common. Skin is very sensitive. You’ll want to stay out of the direct sun for 48 hours and avoid putting on makeup for the rest of the day.
- Days 3–7: Dead skin cells may shed, and the skin feels smoother and more hydrated.
- Weeks 4–6: Collagen and elastin production peaks, and deeper skin renewal becomes more noticeable.
- Months 3–6: Long-term improvements in skin tone, texture, and overall health emerge as new skin cells replace older ones.
The long term benefit of a few monthly microneedling sessions maintains an enhanced cycle of skin renewal, preventing the buildup of dead skin cells and promoting a smoother, more youthful complexion over time.
What if I get Botox? How does it work with MicroNeeling?
Quite symbiotically actually! Botox stops the muscles from moving via the nerves, which are deeper structures of the face. MN is needling the superficial layers of the dermis/skin for collagen production for purposes of rejuvenation. The MN will target the skin surface while the Botox freezes the muscle movement and they make a really great combination.
You should wait 3 weeks after Botox injections for MicroNeedling, or ask your tox technician for a green light.
After Care
This is important to know when to time your MicroNeedling appointments!
Your skin will be vulnerable and sensitive for 24-48 hours post appointment. Your skin will be temporarily red, almost feeling like a mild sunburn, and peeling may occur. No makeup, no moisturizers or sunscreens the day of – only hyaluronic acid or light serums (which are hyper absorbed into microneedled skin!). Only warm water to wash your face, no cleansers. No direct sun exposure for minimum 48 hours.
You can wear sunscreen and makeup the following day. Consider cleaning your makeup brushes to reduce bacterial exposure. Your skin is still sensitive! Avoid intense workouts with heavy sweating for 48 hours. Skip harsh skincare products like vitamin c, retinol, exfoliants, or acids for at least 5-7 days. Avoid pools, hot tubs, saunas, etc. for at least 3 days, and avoid open water (beach/lake) for a week. This is not a treatment you want to do before a weekend at the lake!
