Some people might be intimidated by the thought of small needles penetrating the skin of their face but it is a surprisingly effective treatment for several common cosmetic concerns.

A device called the Dermapen®, used by a licensed professional, utilizes multiple microscopic needles to penetrate the surface layers of skin, creating very small wound patterns to break old collagen chains and start the healing process to smooth skin’s appearance. It is a simple, safe and effective way to produce healthier looking skin.

So what skin concerns is medical micro-needling used to treat? “The better question is what cosmetic skin concern isn’t? It helps with scarring including acne scarring, fine lines, elasticity, and hyperpigmentation,” said Health First board certified dermatologist, Dr. Anita Saluja.

The micro-needling causes controlled micro-wounds that undergo a therapeutic healing and remodeling process that results in collagen production. In simple terms, brighter, smoother skin and a reduction in fine lines and scarring.

There are several advantages of the treatment but perhaps the most significant is the little (if any) down time, unlike laser treatment or deep peels. The face will appear red for approximately 24 hours, but peeling does not normally occur.   Another significant advantage is all skin types can be treated, from fair skinned to dark skinned.

“Often darker skin types cannot undergo deep peels or aggressive laser treatments without increased side effects,” Dr. Saluja explained. “Dermapen is a fantastic alternative in this situation.”

For optimum results, six treatments are generally recommended, each about four weeks apart then quarterly maintenance treatments are advised. Patients are also strongly encouraged to follow a skin care regimen at home that includes sun protection and collagen stimulating creams.

One common concern is the pain involved in the treatment.  Though many patients worry that they are going to feel needle pricks like blood being drawn, a more realistic example is an annoying scratching to your skin in the same place. A typical treatment involves topical numbing cream application for 30-60 minutes. The micro-needling lasts only about 20 minutes.

SpaceCoast LivingSenior Editor Rebecca Shireman was amazed by the results. “The procedure was relatively painless,” she said. “The discomfort lasts only a few seconds on each spot and I could see a difference from my first treatment. After six treatments, I can definitely tell a huge difference in my skin and feel so much more confident. My skin tone is much brighter and it has lessened the appearance of my acne scars.”

 

The Dermapen is adjustable and customizable because of the different settings available. There are various depths/speeds to be used on different areas of the face depending on the thickness of skin and problem being treated.

“I recommend this treatment be done under the supervision of a dermatologist because the micro-needling needles, depending on depth, can treat into the second living layer of skin,” Dr. Saluja said. “In fact, this layer should be treated for best results.”

 

Health First Dermatology
Dr. Anita Saluja
(321) 757-5141  |  YourSkinOurCare.com