You have probably heard of the micro-needling technique that, with the help of very thin needles, stimulates skin collagen and attenuates signs of aging. Currently, it is even performed with the aid of a device called Roller, which has about 200 needles, facilitating the application.
Micro-puncture or percutaneous collagen induction (IPCA) has attracted the attention of people who bet on clinical or aesthetic treatments to take care of the beauty of the skin, as it can treat various aspects of the skin, especially facial.
Juliana Jordão, a postgraduate doctor in dermatology, explains that the treatment is performed through devices composed of small needles that cause microperforations in the skin. "These microperforations are responsible for inducing an inflammatory process at the site, capable of stimulating fibroblasts, which are cells responsible for the production of local collagen," he says.
Furthermore, through the small perforations caused, it is possible to reduce spot pigmentation, especially melasma. Recent studies show considerable improvement in melasma spots resistant to other treatments ?, adds the dermatologist.
Juliana Vieira, dermatofunctional physiotherapist at The Spa, points out that microagging has as its main objective percutaneous induction of collagen, angiogenesis (creation of new blood vessels) and increased vasodilation, leading to improved oxygenation and nutrition in tissues. .
Juliana Jordão explains that the indications for treatment are diverse, but the main ones are:
- Melasma reduction;
- Reduction of acne scars;
- Wrinkle reduction;
- Reduction / improvement of stretch marks;
- Pore and skin texture improvement;
- Reduction of traumatic and / or surgical scars.
Juliana Vieira emphasizes that micro-needling can be indicated for facial rejuvenation, treatment of stretch marks, blemishes, as well as alopecia and sagging.
It is noteworthy that micro-needling can be used on both the face and other parts of the body, including the scalp, to stimulate blood circulation in the region.
How is micro-needling done?
Juliana Vieira explains that first is a cleaning and asepsis of the skin. Then we choose the needle to be used according to the proposed treatment. The roller is passed through the skin in four directions (vertical, horizontal, right and left diagonal) five times each. During micro-needling, we use a cosmetic appropriate for the type of skin and treatment ?, says.
Dermatologist Juliana Jordão points out that in the specific case of treatment for the face, after antisepsis of the skin and application of anesthetic cream, IPCA is applied in several passes across the face. According to the need, needles of different sizes are used: for superficial injuries, smaller needles; for deep lesions like scars, longer needles?
• After the procedure, there is mild to moderate swelling, and redness of the skin that varies with the intensity of the application. Recovery is usually faster compared to laser ?, adds the dermatologist.
Juliana Jordão exemplifies that there are three types of melasma: the epidermal (more superficial), the dermal (deeper) and the mixed (in the two layers). • For each, specific medications and concentrations should be used. If the treatment is not correct, can it cause irritation and worsen the injury?
It is worth stressing that, because it is an invasive procedure, microneedling or IPCA should be performed by a qualified professional in order to ensure the correct evaluation of indications and contraindications, as well as prevention and complications.
Thus, micro-needling should preferably be done by dermatologists or plastic surgeons who specialize in the technique. Dermatofunctional physiotherapists with expertise in the art may also perform it.
Does microagging hurt?
Pain is always relative. But overall, Juliana Vieira says that for needles 0.2 to 0.3 in length, the pain is quite tolerable. "For needles over 0.5, patients report pain," he says.
Juliana Jordão points out that if there is the application of high-powered anesthetic ointment or injectable local anesthesia, micro-needling becomes a very tolerated procedure, even when done more intensely."It is important to emphasize that only doctors are authorized to apply high-powered anesthetic ointment or injectable local anesthesia," he says.
Results: What to Expect From Microagulching
Dermatologist Juliana Jordão explains that they are usually indicated for one to three sessions, depending on the severity of the condition and the indication.
• IPCA powders are generally quiet with minimal discomfort. Reducing blemishes and improving skin quality are seen within the first 15 to 30 days. The peak of IPCA-induced collagen production is around 3 months, when we see the improvement of wrinkles, scars and stretch marks ?, explains the dermatologist.
The physiotherapist Juliana Vieira explains that, generally, it can be observed that, after microneeding, for up to eight months there is still collagen production.
Regarding prices, there may be wide variation depending on the location (city, clinic) where the treatment will be performed. The dermatofunctional physiotherapist points out, however, that the value usually varies between $ 400 to $ 600 per session.
Generally, the time interval between sessions is one month. Each session lasts about 30 minutes to 1 hour. But all this may vary according to the type of treatment.
Care before and after microneedling
According to Juliana Vieira, the main precautions before the procedure are:
- An evaluation should be performed to indicate the best treatment to be done with microneedling;
- It is indicated that the patient discontinue at least three days prior to the use of any acid she is using to avoid possible allergic symptoms;
- Good skin cleansing is necessary;
- It is also indicated to ingest vitamin C, as it helps in the production of collagen.
After the procedure, the basic guidelines are:
- Do not use sunscreen and makeup for at least 24 hours;
- Do not expose to the sun during the inflammatory process (three to five days after);
- Avoid contact with animals and dirty hands in the treated area, thus preventing the risk of contamination;
- Use products with permission of the professional who performed the treatment, for best results.
Risks and contraindications of microneedling
Juliana Jordão points out that the contraindications are:
- Active infection like herpes spot or other infection;
- Tendency to healing with keloids;
- Gestation;
- Immunosuppression.
Dermatofunctional physiotherapist Juliana points out that pregnant women cannot perform the procedure because the risk of hyperpigmentation is very high due to hormonal changes.
Also according to the physiotherapist, the technique is safe, because when puncturing the skin, the entire epidermis is maintained and, therefore, the risks of any complication are low.
Dermatologist Juliana Jordão explains that side effects may arise if there is incorrect application or indication. It can lead to the formation of scars and blemishes at the treatment site. Post-procedure care by the patient, such as through the use of the filter and prevention of sun exposure, also help in the prevention of post-procedure stains ?, he points out.
The dermatologist points out that, associated with micro-needling, should be used between anti-wrinkle creams and whitening sessions to improve and maintain the results. For patients with blemishes, sessions can be alternated with chemical peels. For scars and deep wrinkles, in the same session can be applied the dermal tunneling technique, which makes the lesion detachment and greater local collagen production ?, he says.
To ensure greater success in the treatment and overall care of skin beauty, micro-puncture should also be associated with a protein-rich diet (which helps to stimulate collagen formation in the skin), with daily sun protection (using a protective sunscreen). SPF above 30) and with adequate fluid consumption (especially water). Smokers should try their best to quit, as this is a totally destructive habit for beauty and health in general.
New Consultant Training 2015 Updated By Felecia Stivers (April 2024)
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