Facial rejuvenation is a term generally used to describe the many techniques that improve the skin of women and men beyond their twenties or thirties concerned with facial lines and wrinkles that begin to develop with age. While there are many skin rejuvenation options, such as injectables, skin peels, and laser treatments, microneedling is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedure, which though a relatively old technique, has been modified and popularized as of late.
How does microneedling work?
Microneedling with PRP begins by withdrawing a few tubes of blood from the patient. The blood is spun down in a centrifuge so that the PRP, a clear golden color can separate from the blood. As the blood is processed, the patient’s face is cleansed and a topical anesthetic is applied to minimize discomfort. A medical aesthetician then begins the microneedling process utilizing a motorized pen-type device with multiple tiny needles. The device creates tiny skin punctures into the epidermis with some pinpoint bleeding. These small wounds trigger the body’s normal wound healing process which leads to stimulation of collagen production which helps to reverse some of the aging changes and helps restore a softer, more youthful skin appearance. The PRP is applied to the open wounds immediately by the aesthetician and then (at home by the patient) during the first twenty-four to forty-eight hours of healing. This technique has been shown to both speed up and improve the overall quality of healing, making the results of microneedling more effective.
So, why is microneedling with PRP so incredibly popular?
Even with the many other skin rejuvenation options, such as injectables, peels and laser treatments, microneedling with PRP has some unique properties accounting for its continued popularity:
- It is safe for all skin types. Unlike some peels and laser treatments that can cause pigmentation problems with darker skin tones, microneedling rarely causes a problem.
- It can be more effective with acne scars with its significant collage induction properties.
- It is safe for the skin with minimal risks.
- It can embed healing nutrients deep into the skin as the tiny holes allow nutrients to penetrate deeply into the skin. Vitamins A, C, and E, in conjunction with PRP are key ingredients of special serums applied, which are meant to help with tissue repair.
- A quick recovery period. Soon after microneedling, the skin appears as if the patient has had a sunburn, however, they can usually return to their daily activities within twenty-four hours and the redness resolves within one to two days. The minimization of sun exposure, in addition to similar rejuvenation techniques, is very important. Early results are notable within days and continue to improve over weeks as the collagen induction evolves. Typically a series of two to three treatments over the course of four to six weeks is optimal.
If you are considering microneedling with PRP, call and book an appointment with. David J. Levens, MD Plastic Surgery and MedSpa. Our medical aesthetician will take a complete history, examine your skin and discuss microneedling with PRP and other options/adjunctive treatments during your complimentary consultation.
