Microneedling is a procedure that involves using specialized devices called micropen, dermapen, or dermarollers. These devices generally have multiple needles. Some come with a fixed depth and some with adjustable depth of penetration into the skin. They are sometime paired with infusion systems that deliver medications and growth factors deep into the skin, bypassing the barrier layer of the skin. They may even be paired with PRP ( your own blood platelets) to promote new skin growth and rejuvenation. The mechanism of action of this process is by wounding the deep layer of the skin (dermis) to stimulate skin cells to deposit more collagen and remodel the existing collagen for skin rejuvenation.

Microneedling can be used in a variety of skin conditions to improve them, among them general skin rejuvenation, treatment of acne/chicken pox scars, pigment and melasma treatment, pore reduction, and mild to moderate skin tightening.

At home systems have been developed with very superficial skin penetration for frequent use and then to apply skin care products.

Care must be taken to apply only highest quality skin care products that do not contain harmful chemicals if ingested, as this method bypasses the skin barrier that stops many harmful substances from getting inside our bodies.

It is generally recommended that at home systems not be used more than once, as with subsequent usage, the needles become dull, and the sterility can not be assured.

Office based systems are usually electric, or rechargeable and portable. They come with disposable sterile needle tips for one-time use. The depth can be adjusted to give optimal penetration for each skin condition. The procedure is usually done after application of a numbing cream or local anesthesia for at least half an hour. Without the numbing process, this office based procedure would be painful and intolerable. Each condition needs a certain depth of penetration and would need a few sessions to get the final results. Conditions such as acne scars may need 3 to 4 treatments. In general, rolling scars need more than resurfacing or microneedling to give acceptable aesthetic results.

Only your health care professional can formulate a plan that would give you the best possible results.