Despite the daunting name, skin needling – which is also known as microneedling – is a safe and painless cosmetic procedure which results in a more youthful-looking appearance. This is achieved by reducing the appearance of wrinkles, lines, and sagging. Although it is mostly marketed as an anti-ageing procedure, it can be applied almost anywhere on the body and is also used to treat acne scars, cellulite, and unevenly textured skin.
It usually requires multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart, and the results typically last up to one year. However, there are also things that you can do both before and after the procedure to make sure that it works as well as possible and that the results will last.
This short guide will briefly walk you through the science of how skin needling works, then it will explain the steps you can take at home to get the best results.
The science behind skin needling
Like many other modern cosmetic procedures, skin needling does not involve surgery and instead kick-starts your body’s natural healing process.
In order to start your body’s healing process, some damage obviously needs to be caused. However, this is nothing to worry about, as the damage we are talking about occurs at a microscopic scale. What happens is a device called a skin needling pen is used to make tiny punctures in the skin, damaging the cells that form it.
Your body then produces collagen in response, as this is essential for repairing the damaged tissue and creating new skin cells. Collagen also helps give your skin strength and elasticity. We naturally produce less of it as we age, but when provoked by targeted damage such as microneedling, a lot can be produced in response. This gives the new skin that grows back more firmness, elasticity, and moisture, which results in a younger appearance.
How to maximise the results of skin needling
The process described above is very effective, and the application of the needling pen usually takes less than 30 minutes. However, some preparation and aftercare is required to get the best results.
Exfoliate beforehand
Every day, around 500 million of our skin cells die. The microneedles will be able to penetrate your skin a lot more effectively without a layer of dead cells in the way, so it is worth exfoliating your skin a day or so before the procedure to clear away these dead cells.
Wear sunscreen in the weeks leading up to it
While skin needling is pain-free, some people have reported uncomfortable sensations while having it done, such as a scratching feeling or feeling like their skin is heating up. Sun-damaged skin is more sensitive and may increase your chances of experiencing something similar.
Keep your skin hydrated
Dry skin can be irritating on its own and may cause discomfort if microneedles are applied to it. It is best to keep your skin nice and hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using moisturiser daily.
Prepare your after-care products
For a short time after skin needling, your skin will be highly absorbent but also prone to irritation. This means that you have got a great opportunity to get the right stuff into your pores, but that you also need to keep the wrong things out.
To begin with the former, look for a serum that contains hyaluronic acid. Like collagen, this helps to improve your skin’s elasticity. It can also help with facial redness, which is a side effect of microneedling for some people. Also look for products that contain growth factors and peptides. These can help boost collagen production.
As for what not to use, you should avoid anything that can irritate your skin. This means keeping away from products with fragrances, harsh chemicals, exfoliants, or alcohol.
Protect yourself from the sun
The microscopic damage caused by the skin needling pen is nothing compared to what too much sun exposure can do even when we have not had the treatment. However, the sun’s UV rays are even more dangerous for a few weeks afterwards.
It is advisable to stay out of the sun for at least a week to let your skin start to recover properly without incurring further damage. Following that, make sure that you use a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day, even if it is cloudy, and wear a hat if you do go out in the sun. If you need to spend an extended period of time outside, reapply your sunscreen every two hours.
Avoid touching your skin
Besides washing (with a gentle cleanser) and applying products and sunscreen, try to resist any urges to touch your skin. Most people will experience a little redness and peeling as their skin undergoes its recovery process, but do not be tempted to pick at your skin if this happens. You do not want to get bacteria from your hands onto your skin, which is more sensitive at this time. It could cause irritation.
Use fresh linens
It is inevitable that your skin will come into contact with some things, such as your pillowcase or sheets while you sleep. Minimise the chance of irritation by using clean and fresh linens.
Go easy on the makeup
You can actually wear makeup after skin needling, so long as you have applied a protective, moisturising layer underneath. However, you should not apply heavy makeup in the first 48 hours after the treatment.
Stay healthy
Finally, the number one thing you can do to help your skin grow back looking as healthy and youthful as possible is to adopt healthy habits. Sleeping enough, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet will all help your body to rejuvenate your skin.
Conclusion
Skin needling is a highly effective modern procedure that treats many common skin concerns, but for the best results it is important to prepare well and take aftercare seriously. By following the advice here as well as consulting with the professional doing your procedure, you can expect to have younger, more vibrant skin for up to a year after the treatment.
