Candidates for Microneedling
Microneedling treats fine lines, enlarged pores, pigmentation issues, and scars. The treatments produce more youthful appearing skin that is smoother and firmer. Microneedling is most commonly performed at the face but it can also be performed at most regions of the body. Microneedling is safe for the majority of patients. Contraindications include active acne, skin infections, and wound healing issues.
How Microneedling is Performed
We perform microneedling treatments using the EXCEED microneedling system. Unlike many other microneedling devices on the market, the FDA has cleared this device to treat facial wrinkles and facial acne scars. The needles of this advanced device tilt and adapt to the skins surface in order to maintain proper alignment. This allows the device to smoothly glide along the skin surface. As such, the needles precisely puncture the skin without snagging and scratching. The device provides consistent power and the ability to precisely adjust needle depth and speed. With such technology, we are able to improve comfort, reduce skin irritation, reduce recovery time, and decrease the risk of side effects. Clinical trials have proven that the EXCEED microneedling pen visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, skin laxity, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, and acne scars.
How to Prepare for Microneedling
Prior to the microneedling procedure, we apply topical numbing cream to the skin for 30 to 60 minutes. This makes the treatment comfortable.
Starting about 1 month before your microneedling treatment avoid sun exposure and use a sunscreen when outside. Starting 1-2 weeks before treatment avoid waxing, electrolysis, depilatory creams, laser hair removal and skin care products that contain acids (such as gycolic acid, salicylic acid, etc.). Starting 5 days before treatment, discontinue using skin care products that contain retinoids (such as retinol, tretinoin, Retin-A, Differin, Tazorac, etc). Also avoid facial masks, hair dyes, rough sponges, and any harsh or drying topicals. Starting 3 days before the peel, discontinue skin care products that contain active ingredients such as Vitamin C (and other anti-oxidants) and benzoyl peroxide. For men, shave the night before or the morning of your microneedling treatment.
Please notify us if you have a history of cold sores, as you may be recommended additional pre-treatment. Patients who have had recent cosmetic procedures such as laser treatments, cosmetic fillers or other surgical procedures should wait until skin sensitivity has completely resolved before receiving a peel. Please discuss with us to determine ideal timing.
We are conveniently located to serve Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, & Los Angeles. However, we are available to help with coordinating your stay if you are an Out-of-Town Patient.
What to Expect After Microneedling
Patients can expect some redness for about 1 to 3 days. Mild flaking may also occur but is less common. However, most patients are able to resume most normal activities the day after treatment.
Following treatment, you should use a gentle cleanser (e.g., Foulad Gentle Cleanser or Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser) and tepid water to cleanse the face for the first week after your treatment. Do not scrub or pick at your skin while it is healing. You should also use a gentle moisturizer for a least 1 week after your treatment. You can consider using a topical skin hydrator, such as a pure hyaluronic acid serum, starting after your treatment. Avoid exfoliating products, acids, astringents, Retinol (Vitamin A), Vitamin C, and products containing alcohol or fragrance for 1 week (unless otherwise approved).
Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for at least 1 to 2 months after microneedling treatments. We recommend using a chemical-free sunscreen (i.e. a physical blocker) starting the day after your microneedling treatment. We recommend you do not apply makeup for a minimum of 24 hours after the treatment. However, it is ideal to avoid makeup for 3 days after the treatment. Drinking water to stay hydrated is also helpful.
Do not participate in strenuous activities or swimming for at least 3 days after your treatment. Sweating and pool water can introduce harmful bacteria that can cause adverse reactions in your skin. Avoid waxing and laser treatments for 2 weeks. Avoid powered cleansing brushes such as Clarisonic for at least one week following your treatment.
Microneedling faq
When will I notice results?
Improvement of the skin occurs over the course of several months, but most patients tend to notice a glow to their skin and a more even appearing skintone as early as the first few days. Results will continue to improve as collagen production continues. Multiple treatments are recommended for best results.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends on the patient goals, but we often recommend starting with an initial series of 3 treatments. Typically these treatments are spaced out 4 to 6 weeks.
How long does the appointment take?
The microneedling procedure itself typically takes about 30-60 minutes depending on the size of the areas treated. However, the entire appointment may take up to 2 hours to complete because topical numbing is typically applied 30-60 minutes prior to the start of the treatment for the comfort of the patient. If desired, you may apply the topical numbing cream prior to arrival.
What area can I treat with microneedling?
The most common areas to treat are the face and neck. However, microneedling can also be effective on other parts of the body to treat most types of scarring and stretch marks.
Is there downtime?
Your recovery time will be influenced by how aggressive a treatment you have received and your individual skin’s response. Each patient has an individual time frame for recovery but on average you should expect 1 to 3 days of redness. Immediately following your treatment, your skin may appear red and feel warmer and tighter than usual. These effects are normal.
