At The Repaire Room in Charleston, SC, microneedling is offered as an effective way to address visible signs of aging and uneven skin texture. This treatment can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve skin tone, and create a smoother surface. We provide microneedling alongside other treatments to help our patients enjoy healthier-looking skin. It is a simple treatment that complements your skincare routine and makes you look radiant.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that rejuvenates the skin by creating controlled microchannels. These tiny punctures help the skin naturally repair itself, addressing various concerns like uneven skin texture, fine lines, and mild scarring. At The Repaire Room, microneedling is commonly chosen by patients who want to improve skin health or treat signs of aging without undergoing more invasive options.
How Microneedling Works
The process relies on stimulating collagen production within the skin. When the microchannels occur, the body’s natural response is to heal, which increases the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are the proteins that give your skin structure and make it firm and youthful. A collagen boost helps smooth out lines and improve skin elasticity, leading to a firmer, healthier appearance over time.
How Is Microneedling Different From Dermarolling?
While microneedling and derma rolling may seem similar, they differ in technique and depth. Microneedling uses precise, adjustable devices to penetrate vertically at controlled depths, allowing for more effective stimulation of collagen and elastin. Dermarolling, typically done at home, cannot achieve the same level of skin improvement and may not address the same deeper concerns as microneedling can. With at-home treatments, the needles are rolled across the skin which can also lead to more tearing and a higher risk of infection and irritation. Professional microneedling devices feature one-use tips that prevent the risk of spreading germs and make the treatment safer.
What Can Microneedling Treat?
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Fine lines and wrinkles often appear as the skin naturally loses elasticity over time. Intrinsic aging is genetic and outside of our control. However, external factors that are in our control like smoking or excess sun exposure can speed up this process. Microneedling can target these areas, helping to smooth out fine lines by encouraging skin renewal. It is an effective option for those seeking a non-invasive way to reduce early signs of aging.
Acne Scars
Microneedling for acne scars can be especially beneficial because it targets the uneven texture left behind by previous breakouts. These scars often form when inflammation from acne damages the skin’s collagen structure, leaving indents or raised areas. Microneedling encourages the skin to repair itself, helping to soften and smooth acne scars over time.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches or contracts quickly, often from growth spurts or weight changes that weaken skin fibers. Microneedling results can visibly improve the texture of stretch marks by encouraging skin repair at a deeper level. Over time, this process may help stretch marks blend more smoothly with the surrounding skin.
Large Pores
Large pores are typically due to excess oil production or loss of skin elasticity around the pore walls. While pore size can’t be completely changed, promoting collagen production around the pores can help reduce their appearance. Microneedling creates a smoother surface which can make large pores less noticeable.
Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is often caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes, or skin injuries that lead to uneven melanin distribution. This discoloration can be challenging to manage, but microneedling can help by promoting a more even skin tone. By gently exfoliating and encouraging fresh skin cells, it gradually reduces dark spots and discoloration.
Uneven Skin Texture
Uneven skin texture can result from a mix of scars, pore issues, or skin roughness due to aging or environmental damage. Microneedling encourages the skin to renew itself, helping to reduce the appearance of rough patches and improving overall smoothness. Over time, patients often see a more balanced, refined skin surface.
Sun Damage
Prolonged sun exposure breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to premature aging and roughened skin texture. Microneedling can help treat mild sun damage by promoting skin renewal. With time, patients may notice a reduction in sun-related issues, with a smoother, healthier appearance.
Why Choose Microneedling?
It Can Enhance the Absorption of Your Products
Microneedling opens up microchannels in the skin, allowing topical products to penetrate deeper. This enhanced absorption can make active ingredients, like antioxidants or hyaluronic acid, more effective. With improved absorption, patients may experience better results from their skincare routine.
It Can Treat Multiple Concerns at Once
One of the microneedling benefits is its ability to address several skin issues simultaneously. Fine lines, scars, texture irregularities, and pigmentation can all be targeted in a single treatment. This versatility makes it a convenient option for those looking to improve more than one aspect of their skin health with one simple treatment.
It Is a Comfortable Treatment
Microneedling is minimally invasive and most patients only experience a little discomfort. The needles are very fine and penetrate the skin quickly. It can feel like scratching or sandpaper on the skin. A topical numbing cream can be applied beforehand for added comfort.
You Won’t Need Invasive Techniques
For those looking to address aging signs without surgery, microneedling offers a non-invasive solution. This non-surgical facelift encourages the skin to rejuvenate from within, improving firmness and elasticity without surgical intervention. With microneedling, you can get some of the same benefits as a facelift with minimal downtime.
It Can Reverse Signs of Aging
While some treatments aim to mask aging signs, microneedling works by improving the skin’s actual health and quality. This focus on genuine improvement makes it a practical choice for long-term skin health.
It Can Offer Long-Lasting Effects
With consistent microneedling, patients may see results that last well beyond the initial treatment phase. The gradual improvement in skin texture and tone can continue to develop over months, especially with multiple sessions.
The Microneedling Treatment Process
Consultation
Before beginning microneedling, we start with a consultation to discuss your skin concerns and goals. This session helps us determine whether microneedling is the best option for you. We’ll review your skin type and any prior treatments, and create a personalized plan tailored to address your specific concerns.
Pre-Treatment Preparations
To prepare for your microneedling session, you may need to avoid certain products and treatments. For instance, we may ask you to discontinue retinoids or exfoliants a few days before your appointment. Keeping the skin hydrated and free from irritants helps you get the best results and offers you a smoother experience during the treatment.
Procedure Details
During the session, we begin by cleansing the skin to remove any impurities. The numbing cream can then be applied to enhance comfort throughout the treatment. Once the skin is prepared, the microneedling device is gently applied to the treatment area where the microneedles puncture the skin. We will repeat this process section by section until the whole area is treated. Each session lasts around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
Post-Treatment Dos and Don’t
Do:
After microneedling services, it’s important to keep the skin clean and hydrated. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and apply a recommended moisturizer to support skin healing. Sun protection is also essential; use a broad-spectrum SPF daily, as the skin may be more sensitive to UV exposure post-treatment.
Don’t:
Avoid using exfoliating or harsh skincare products in the days following microneedling services as these can irritate the skin. Refrain from heavy makeup application or activities that may cause sweating such as intense exercise for at least 24 to 48 hours. This allows your skin to heal optimally and reduces the risk of irritation or infection.
The Safety and Side Effects of Microneedling
Safety Standards
When considering microneedling, it’s essential to seek treatment from a trained professional. This approach allows the procedure to be done safely and with the appropriate technique for your skin type. A qualified provider can adjust the treatment depth and intensity, reducing the risk of complications and helping you achieve the best possible results.
Common Side Effects
After microneedling, mild side effects are expected, such as redness, slight swelling, and a sensation similar to a mild sunburn. These effects are usually temporary and tend to fade within a few days as the skin begins to heal.
Rare Complications
While complications from microneedling are uncommon, they can occur if proper aftercare is not followed or if the treatment is done improperly. Rarely, patients may experience prolonged redness, irritation, or infection. By following aftercare instructions and choosing a reputable provider, the risk of such issues can be minimized.
FAQs About Our Microneedling Treatments
How Many Microneedling Sessions Will I Need?
The number of microneedling sessions you may need depends on your specific skin concerns and goals. For general skin maintenance, a few sessions spaced about six weeks apart can provide noticeable improvements. For concerns like acne scars or deeper wrinkles, we may suggest more treatments.
When Can I Expect to See Microneedling Results?
You may start to notice microneedling results within a few weeks as collagen production begins. However, because collagen continues to build over time, the most noticeable improvements typically appear about two to three months after the initial treatment. Results can vary depending on skin type and the specific concerns being addressed.
Can I Wear Makeup After Microneedling?
It’s best to avoid makeup for at least 24 hours after microneedling to give the skin time to heal and reduce the risk of irritation or infection. After this period, gentle, non-comedogenic makeup can be used, though it’s generally ideal to keep the skin makeup-free for as long as possible post-treatment.
Is Microneedling Suitable for All Skin Types?
Microneedling treatment is suitable for a range of skin types, including sensitive and darker skin tones. Unlike some resurfacing treatments, microneedling doesn’t rely on heat, so it carries a lower risk of pigmentation changes. During a consultation, we’ll review your skin type to confirm that microneedling is appropriate for you.
How Much Does Microneedling Cost?
The cost of microneedling can vary based on the treatment area and the number of sessions needed. At The Repaire Room, we’ll provide you with a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation, allowing us to personalize a treatment plan to your goals and budget.
What Skincare Should I Use After Microneedling?
After microneedling, it’s best to stick to gentle, hydrating products to support the healing process. Avoid exfoliants or active ingredients like retinoids for several days. A mild cleanser, hydrating moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen are ideal post-treatment to keep the skin protected and comfortable.
Why Choose Us for Microneedling Treatments?
At The Repaire Room, we offer microneedling treatments with a focus on patient safety, comfort, and personalized care. Our trained providers use high-quality devices and carefully assess your skin needs to provide effective, tailored treatments. We prioritize your results and work to make each session a positive experience from start to finish.
Ready to Learn More About Microneedling? Contact Us Today!
With 18 years of dermatology experience, Rebecca Repaire provides microneedling treatments that can address multiple skin concerns, offering a non-invasive approach to rejuvenation. Many patients at The Repaire Room in Charleston, SC rely on Rebecca to curate effective skincare routines customized to their needs. Microneedling and other treatments can complement good skincare for lasting results. It can provide a more targeted treatment for specific concerns like wrinkles or hyperpigmentation. To schedule a consultation or learn more about our services, contact us or call (843) 822-2046.