Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), uses the skin’s ability to heal itself by puncturing the dermis of the skin with a microscopic needle. This triggers the production of new collagen.
Microneedling is suitable for all skin types and colors. The process of microneedling is performed with tools such as a “derma pen” or a “derma roller”. These tools have tiny needles attached that are used to make many tiny little holes or pricks in the top layers of the skin.
These tiny holes from the needles create “micro channels” that allows medicated skin care products to penetrate and absorb into the deeper layers of the skin. This kicks the skin into healing mode and stimulates collagen and elastin production.
Platelet-rich plasma injections are scalp injections of one’s own platelet-rich plasma. These deliver growth factors to help rejuvenate skin and reinvigorate cell turnover. Platelets have the unique ability to heal chronic injuries, and contains proteins that facilitate tissue repair and wound healing due to the awakening of the inflammatory responses to healing.
When paired with microneedling, inflammation is reduced, helping to repair deep acne scars, uneven skin tone, wrinkles, and fine lines.
Microneedling has proven to be an effective procedure on its own. Yet studies show that the results can be optimized when paired with special products and serums such as platelet-rich plasma.
The microneedling process opens up the skin and allows it to better absorb products into a deeper level of the skin, thus helping with the rejuvenation process and removal of acne scars, sun spots, melasma, wrinkles, and stretch marks.
Platelet-Rich Plasma contains highly concentrated amounts of natural growth factors and other cytokines that promote the regeneration process of soft tissues. Patients will usually continue to see improvements in their skin as their body’s natural repair process creates more collagen. Most patients see noticeable results after 4-8 weeks.
A Vitalogy Medical Spa Provider will have an in-depth consultation with you to understand your concerns, goals, and determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
During preparation, a topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area. Once the microneedling process is performed as described above, the second procedure called platelet-rich plasma is performed. Platelet-rich plasma is produced from your own blood. After a blood sample is obtained from the patient, the blood is put into a centrifuge or similar device, which is a tool that separates the platelet-rich plasma from the blood. The platelet-rich plasma is applied directly into the “microchannels” that were created from microneedling to further stimulate the natural healing process and creation of collagen.
You will be provided with post-care instructions after your treatment. Also, you should be able to resume your normal activities the next day.
The best and most common areas for treatment are:
Recovery time is minimal, but it is best to allow yourself time to heal. After the treatment, your skin will be slightly pink and feel slightly sunburned. Most patients see complete recovery with their skin in 24-72 hours. Your body’s collagen production usually takes about 4-8 weeks, so you will continue to see improvements over this time.
Results vary per patient. However, you will notice improvement with a single procedure. Some patients may only need one treatment, but on average you will need 2-3 treatments happening approximately 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results. We recommended you repeat the treatment once a year for maintenance and yearly rejuvenation.
To book a consultation, make an appointment with a Vitalogy Medical Spa Aesthetician today in the Greater Austin area.