Acne, when it’s at its worst, can be a real blow. It can leave you in pain and feeling self-conscious, but the leftover scars can be just as frustrating. Acne scars can seriously affect a person’s confidence by making skin appear uneven and dented. Many celebrities such as Kendall Jenner have come out and discussed their battle with acne, the scarring that results from it, and the knock-on effect it has on their self-esteem. Acne scars are formed when the inflammation from the acne destroys the collagen in the skin and leaves an indentation where the acne was. This leaves the skin tone and surface looking damaged and uneven.
Micro Needling: A New Treatment Option
A new treatment for acne scars is now being offered by dermatologists and medical spas: micro needling. Micro needling targets acne scars by using microneedles to stimulate the production of collagen. Also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), it targets collagen and elastin in the skin by using tiny needles to create micro-wounds. By targeting scars and skin tone, the process promotes healing and smooths out the surface of the skin, restoring the skin’s natural beauty. A numbing cream is applied to the affected area prior to the treatment, and patients are left with a slight sensation akin to sunburn afterwards.
The Role of Collagen
Collagen is a protein found in skin – in fact, it’s the skin’s primary structural component. When this is stimulated through micro needling, the skin is encouraged to heal itself, which aids in the healing of acne scars. Micro needling can also help with the healing of other skin imperfections such as surgical scars, chicken pox marks, cellulite, and fine lines and wrinkles! It’s almost a miracle treatment.
What to Expect
It is vital to only get micro needling performed by a licensed practitioner with experience. One good example is Dermani MEDSPA. They use the latest treatment technique: SkinPen micro needling, as well as equipment that has been FDA approved.
A single micro needling treatment lasts between 30 to 45 minutes. An esthetician will apply the numbing cream prior to the procedure, and all the patient needs to do is lie back, relax, and let the esthetician do the rest! For each micro needling treatment an individual SkinPen sterile needle cartridge is used to ensure total hygiene and safety.
While most patients have no side effects following a micro needling procedure, the procedure is not without risk. Skin irritation is common, and some patients may experience bruising, bleeding, or peeling skin. It is important to speak to a doctor if you experience any of these side effects.
Who Can Have a Micro Needling Procedure?
Micro needling is safe for use on all skin types and is suitable for anybody in good general health. The treatment is not currently recommended for pregnant women, those who have eczema or psoriasis, and those who have recently undergone radiation therapy. If you are unsure about whether you are a good candidate for the procedure, it’s wise to seek expert advice.