What are the results you can count on after microneedling treatments? Is the procedure as effective as most people claim? In this article, we’re going to talk about microneedling 101 and how it began the new wave of skin rejuvenation and resurfacing treatments that we know and love today.

The Early Days of Microneedling

Microneedling might seem like a modern type of technology but unbeknownst to many, the concept of this innovation has been utilized in many societies since ancient history. The idea of resurfacing the healthy layer of skin underneath the outer layer has long been used to address various skin issues such as wrinkles, scars, and hyperpigmentation. In ancient Egypt, people used a form of abrasive to scrape off the surface of the skin to reduce the appearance of scars. Around the same time, the Chinese were also practicing needle treatments that were believed to not only heal irregularities on the skin but also within the body. 

The technology we know today, however, came from a more recent type of microneedling technique. In the early 1900s, renowned dermatologist, Ernest Kromayer started utilizing dental burs mounted on a motor to perform a microneedling technique that can eliminate the appearance of scars and birthmarks. Though this might sound primitive today, many picked up on the idea which then led to more breakthroughs in microneedling technology. In the late 1990s, a plastic surgeon named Dr. Andre Camirand began using a tattoo machine to try and hide scars. He soon realized that the ink was being dissolved within the skin and was being replaced by melanin naturally. The needles were efficiently restructuring and boosting the skin’s production of collagen. Patients noticed the immediate improvements after microneedling which drastically lessened the appearance of scars and enhanced the pigment of the skin. 

Today, tons of microneedling methods are available for people to try. Microneedling does not only treat several skin conditions but can also improve the overall well-being of the skin. Microneedling techniques have also been adapted for both clinical and home use. Though this age-old method has evolved throughout the course of history, its efficiency and effectiveness can all be attributed to one important factor which is the stimulation of collagen.

 

Collagen and Microneedling

After microneedling, the body continues to promote the stimulation of collagen on the skin. But what is collagen and how does it efficiently restore the wellness of our skin? To put it simply, collagen is like the glue that holds our skin, bones, and muscles together. It is the main structural protein and is made up of amino acids. Collagen connects our tissues and makes up 25% to 30% of the protein content in our bodies. The collagen in our skin is responsible for keeping it firm and tight. 

As we age, however, the production of collagen lessens which then leads to the wrinkles and sagging of the skin. This is why many beauty products today market collagen as their main anti-aging element but topical applications may not be as effective as stimulating collagen production within the body naturally. Microneedling is safe and scientifically proven to improve natural collagen production. In a study done in 2008, a 400% increase in collagen production was found in patients after microneedling sessions were performed. 

 

The Wonders of Microneedling Today

The microneedling technology we know today is still similar to the concept which was at the forefront of most dermatological innovations but has evolved in many ways. Microneedling procedures today use state-of-the-art and top-of-the-line equipment that can provide a more pleasant experience for patients. Other skin resurfacing techniques have also been combined with microneedling technology to boost the efficacy of each treatment.   Additionally, the practice of microneedling can also now be done at home with dermarolling tools and needling pens becoming a normal part of people’s skincare routines. Here are some variations of the technology and the effects after microneedling.
 

Original Microneedling - During the original and basic microneedling process, tiny needles penetrate the skin to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. This then causes the skin cells to regenerate, rejuvenate, and naturally repair themselves. Since it is minimally invasive, depending on the condition the patient wishes to address, it requires little to no downtime at all. After microneedling, tighter, smoother, and younger-looking skin can be observed without the need to go under the knife. 

Microneedling with PRP - Platelet-rich plasma or PRP, can typically be added to a standard microneedling treatment. Some studies show that this type of technique can significantly improve acne-damaged skin after microneedling. Additionally, many people prefer microneedling with PRP because of claims that it can show immediate results compared to the original method. It can also speed up the reduction of scars or wrinkles and improve the overall condition of your skin more quickly.

 

Microneedling with RF - Just like microneedling, radiofrequency or RF technology is considered one of the most effective and reliable methods for skin resurfacing and rejuvenation. Microneedling with RF technology combines two highly effective skincare methods and effectively stimulates the production of elastin and collagen. This is done by delivering radiofrequency energy at the tip of each microneedle. This method causes less damage to the skin and therefore requires less downtime than other treatments. As with other methods, this improved form of microneedling can effectively remove or reduce wrinkles, scars, and hyperpigmentation.

Dermarolling - Because microneedling has adapted and diversified in application throughout the years, it has also now been made available in different shapes and sizes. A dermaroller is a small type of microneedling tool that you can buy for home use and works similarly to a microneedling device you can find in a clinic. It is a small roller tool covered with microneedles at one end. The rotating mechanism allows the needles to penetrate the skin which then stimulates the production of collagen and elastin. Dermarolling can make the skin smoother and healthier if implemented within your normal skincare routine. After microneedling using a dermaroller for some time, just like other methods, it can help improve the quality of the skin.