what to expect: microneedling

Preparation:

• Stop topical Retinols and Retin-A (tretinoin) at least 4 days prior to treatment.
• If you have a history of cold sores (herpes simplex) we can provide a prescription to prevent an outbreak. This is started the day before the procedure.
• There is no other preparation although we always recommend you are well-hydrated prior to any procedure.

The day of the Procedure:

• Prior to your first and last treatment we will take pictures.
• A very strong topical anesthetic will be applied to the areas being treated for 30 min. 
• For PRP: a blood draw will be performed at the start of the procedure. PRP is directly injected into areas of concern-- typically around the eyes and nasolabial folds and areas of scarring.
• Microneedling is performed using the Growth Factor serum or PRP. This takes about 20-30 minutes depending on the size of the areas being treated. 

Post procedure:

• Immediately after the procedure the treated areas will be red and mildly swollen. The redness will fade over the next 1-2 days.
• Immediately start to use sunblock (UVA/B, >SPF30) on the treated area.
• Some people go through a dry flaky phase. The best treatment is a combination of Zerafite and Skinmedica HA5 serum.
• Acne breakouts rarely happen after microneedling. Avoid petroleum products such as aquaphor, neosporin, etc, as they promote these break-outs. Over-the-counter skin care products are often greasy as well, and can contribute. It is always best to use the recommended products post-procedure to avoid this as much as possible. Break-outs can be treated with prescription topical clindamycin if necessary. Thankfully, acne breakouts after microneedling are rare.
• Avoid swimming, strenuous activity, exercising and sun exposure for 24 hours.
• Hydrocortisone is discouraged due to side effect of hirsutism and epidermal atrophy. If there is any itchiness a topical benadryl cream can be used.

SKIN CARE POST PROCEDURE:

• Jane Iredale makeup may be worn immediately post procedure. Avoid other makeup brands as we have seen acne break-outs.
• Sunblock should be applied at least 1 hour before going outdoors. Sunblock should be re-applied after going into water and at intervals according to product instructions. We recommend Elta MD Clear SPF 46.
• Avoid retinoids, glycolic acids, vitamin C products, sunscreens and serums the first night.
• During the first 3 days: use a gentle cleanser, sunscreens and gentle moisturizers. Please use only recommended products on your skin, as these will help you heal faster.

MORNING FIRST 4 DAYS

1. Cleanse with gentle cleanser: Sente Daily Soothing Cleanser
2. Sente Dermal Repair Cream
3. HA serum (optional: highly recommended for dehydrated skin)
4. Moisturizer: Zerafite Soothing and Calming Moisturizer 
5. Sunblock: Elta MD Clear SPF 46
6. Jane Iredale foundation (if needed)

EVENING FIRST 4 DAYS

1. Cleanse with gentle cleanser: Sente Daily Soothing Cleanser
2. Sente Dermal Repair Cream
3. HA serum (optional: highly recommended for dehydrated skin)
4. Moisturizer: Zerafite Soothing and Calming Moisturizer

Results and Expectations

Microneedling causes multiple tiny channels into the dermis where collagen is made. The growth factors in the serum and in PRP send a powerful signal to the cells in the skin to make more collagen. Over time, the skin will thicken and have smaller pores a smoother surface with fewer tiny lines. Usually a series of treatments is necessary to achieve the desired results usually at least 3 treatments 4-6 weeks apart. Microneedling can also be used to maintain the skin’s collagen, usually one treatment every 3 months.