Question 1

How is the treatment performed and does it hurt?

Accepted Answer

Prior to treatment the skin is numbed with local anaesthetic paste. This greatly reduces any discomfort. The skin is thoroughly cleansed, and then the tip of the device is passed over the skin in a gliding manner, creating stimulating micro channels as it goes. Simultaneously, a hyaluronic acid preparation may be infused into the skin to boost hydration. This process continues until an even flushing of the skin is seen, which indicates a complete treatment. Afterwards a soothing mask and hydrating serums and balms are applied. The whole procedure takes around an hour and a half.

Question 2

What aftercare is needed?

Accepted Answer

After treatment the skin will feel hot, tight and may have a slight burning sensation. This will lessen over the next 4 to 48 hours. Do not touch the skin for the first hour, as the skin is open and you may risk causing infection. Mineral makeup may then be applied after 1-2 hours using clean hands. For the next 3-5 days, a specific post-skin-needling kit is recommended to optimise results and reduce the risk of negative effects. During this time, do not use any products containing Vitamin A, Vitamin C or AHA’s, as these may irritate the healing skin. After one week, your normal skin care regime may be resumed.

Question 3

What can I expect after treatment and is there any downtime?

Accepted Answer

The immediate after-effects vary between individuals, any side effects are mostly mild to moderate. These may include:

Erythema
Skin redness can vary from a few hours to 24 hours and rarely for 2-3 days. This settles as the skin heals.
Skin dryness and mild shedding. It is normal to experience some skin dryness and a small amount of skin shedding for up to 5 days. At day 5, a gentle exfoliant may be used.
Hyper-pigmentation. This is rare and temporary, resolving over the next few weeks. To help prevent hyper-pigmentation, avoid sunlight/UV exposure and use a SPF 15+ (or higher) for 2 weeks post treatment.
Cold Sores. If you have a history of herpes simplex you may experience an outbreak post treatment. Prior to the treatment, your doctor may prescribe medication to prevent this.
Bruising may occur as a result of treatment.
Please contact the clinic should this occur, as treatment to resolve it may be possible.
Post treatment infection is a rare possibility.
Should this occur, contact the clinic for treatment.

Question 4

How long before I see results?

Accepted Answer

After the initial healing period, your skin should appear smoother. However, new collagen will grow from about week six. Your skin will continue to improve over 6-12 months.

Question 5

Are there any contraindications to treatment?

Accepted Answer

Although the treatment is safe for most people, contraindications include:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Blood thinners
Keloid scarring
Diabetes
Epilepsy
Heart conditions (caution with topical anaesthetic)
Blood disorders
Infectious diseases
Active acne
Open lesions
Active herpes
Eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis
Autoimmune diseases

Introducing Skin Pen for Microneedling