Collagen is one of the main building blocks for our skin, giving it a plump, smooth, youthful texture and appearance. Age, sun exposure, environmental toxins, lifestyle, and other factors result in lower levels of collagen, which is responsible for a good majority of the signs of aging on our faces. Some people claim that ingesting collagen through broths or powders can help restore collagen levels. While that is still up for debate, the collagen-boosting effects of microneedling are not. Microneedling treatments have been proven to stimulate the production of collagen and new skin cells for smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin. In order to get the best results from your microneedling treatments, though, timing is important. Read on for more information about microneedling and how often you should do it. 

What is microneedling?

Microneedling (also called collagen induction therapy) is a skin rejuvenation treatment involving tiny, invisible puncture wounds made in the top layer of your skin. These micro-injuries stimulate your body’s natural regenerative abilities, including cell turnover and collagen production, which are the keys to youthful-looking skin.  

How often should you microneedle?

The first microneedling treatment typically involves a series of 3 to 4 treatments spaced about 4 weeks apart. This timing is important for two reasons. First, because it takes approximately a month to heal from the first treatment; and second, in order to get superior cumulative effects from the treatment, the next treatment should be done as close to the last one as possible. After you have achieved your desired results with the first round of treatments, you may begin to spread them out a little more, depending on the severity of the condition being treated. 

Maintenance microneedling treatments require only a single session and are generally recommended every 4-6 weeks for the first year. In subsequent years, 1 treatment per season is usually sufficient for maintaining results. Some severe conditions may require more frequent treatments. At least 2 microneedling treatments per year is recommended for maintaining smooth, firm, youthful-looking skin.  

Tips for maximizing your microneedling results

The collagen-replenishing effects of microneedling are proven to improve the tone, texture, appearance, and overall health of your skin. If you want to maximize your results, there are a few things you can do before and after each treatment, including:

• Exfoliate 2 or 3 times a week for a couple of weeks before your microneedling treatment, but DON’T exfoliate the night before.  

• Avoid anti-inflammatory medications for 3 days prior to and 7 days after your microneedling treatment.

• Avoid waxing, depilatory creams, or laser hair removal for 5-7 days after treatment.

• Use gentle cleanser and moisturizer for at least 7 days after treatment (be generous with the moisturizer).

• Limit sun exposure for 2 weeks following each treatment session, and if you do go outside, be sure to apply sunscreen generously every 2 hours. 

Prior to your microneedling appointment at Siti Med Spa, we will provide you with a clear set of pre- and post-procedure instructions to help you get the most out of your treatment. 

Rejuvenate your skin with microneedling at Siti Med Spa today

At Siti Med Spa in San Diego, we take pride in providing expert care to help every patient achieve a healthy, natural, and rejuvenated appearance. If you’re interested in learning more about microneedling or any of our other skin rejuvenation treatments, please give us a call at (619) 717-8484 to schedule a consultation today.