Dermarolling or Micro Needling
Dermaroller treatment, also known as collagen induction therapy/ medical needling/ skin needling, is a relatively new treatment to stimulate the body’s own collagen production. Scars, aging, pigmentation, among others are common concerns targeted by this treatment.
How it works:
Dermarolling or micro-needling involves using a sterile roller comprised of a series of fine, sharp needles to puncture the skin. As human skin has an average thickness of 1.5mm, needles lengths range from 0.15 to 2.5mm. Longer needles are contraindicated.
Procedure:
Consultation with a dermatologist / aesthetic physician.
Cleaning of the skin with a normal facial cleanser to remove all products and makeup.
Anesthetic cream (EMLA) applied in a uniform manner over areas to be treated for 30-45 min.
Anesthetic cream is removed with a cotton swab and dermarolling is done in 3 different directions for 15-20 passes in each direction. When dermarolling acne scars, a popping sound may be heard when passing on deep hard scars.
Pinpoint spots are then cleaned and a product is applied. Examples of products which can be used, depending on patient’s requirements are: simple repair cream, collagen solutions, cocktails of vitamins, enzymes, plant extracts, etc. Depending on which product is used, the patient’s needs are met, targeting aging, scars, pores, pigmentation etc.
Treatment can be repeated in 6 weeks.
Important Points:
Do not share your dermaroller.
Always clean it before use. Sterilize in salt water or 70% alcohol for 10 min before using.
Always verify your dermaroller for bent or crooked needles. If needles are crooked, it can cause more damage to your skin.
Treatment times differ from 10-60 min depending on the area being treated. Skin is usually pink or red and some bruising and minor scabbing may occur. The micro injury to the skin causes a number of changes including the breakdown of scar tissue and the formation of healthy new collagen, elastin and blood vessels.
Healing time is usually 4-7 days, makeup can be worn after 2-3 days.
Number of treatments usually varies. Results generally start to be seen after about 6 weeks, but the full effects can take up to 3 months to occur.
Always wear your sunscreen to avoid harmful effects of the sun.
Dermarolling uses the same concept as lasers, microdermabrasion and chemical peelings, that is, damaging a layer of the skin to allow fresh new skin to grow. But unlike other methods, there is no post-procedure pain, downtime is zero and there is no risk of pigment loss, especially on darker skin.
