Of all the dermal treatments offered at Samara Aesthetics, micro-needling is among the most popular. Some people receive the treatment on its own, while others combine it with complementary treatments such as Healite or topical skin boosters.
So, what exactly is it? Micro-needling (aka collagen induction therapy or skin needling) is a non-invasive treatment that uses very fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates the body’s healing response, promoting the production of collagen and elastin, the two essential proteins that maintain firm, smooth skin.
As we age, our collagen and elastin levels significantly decrease. From our mid to late twenties, the body produces approximately 1% less collagen per year. So over time, our skin becomes thinner and less elastic, resulting in wrinkles, sagging and decreased skin density.
Micro-needling can address a variety of issues, targeting skin texture, tone and overall quality. It can also treat acne scars, surgical scars, enlarged pores, fine lines and wrinkles, skin discolouration and stretch marks.
The Dermapen 4
At Samara Aesthetics, we use the Dermapen 4, the most advanced medical-grade skin needling device, and the only TGA-approved microneedling device in Australia today. This device features the latest micro-needling technologies, delivering greater power, precision, and speed—and can create 1,920 micropunctures per second. The Dermapen 4 is so effective that it can even treat scars with a dedicated scar setting protocol and reach depths of up to 3 mm. This is far deeper than any at-home micro-needling device.
Your consultation
If you’re interested in microneedling, the first step is a consultation with one of our registered cosmetic nurses. You can chat about your concerns and objectives, and they can assess your skin, evaluating your skin type, concerns and suitability for treatment.
You may be concerned about fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, or mild skin laxity. If your nurse thinks that micro-needling could help address these issues, and you’d like to proceed, you can prepare for treatment.
Your micro-needling session
Before commencing treatment, we’ll thoroughly cleanse your skin. Your nurse will then use a specialised device fitted with fine, sterile needles. These needles create tiny, controlled punctures in the skin surface. The depth of the needles can be adjusted depending on the treatment area and the concern being addressed. For example, we may use deeper penetration for acne scarring, while opting for more superficial settings for general skin rejuvenation.
As the device passes over the skin, it triggers the body’s wound-healing response. This leads to increased collagen and elastin production over time, helping to improve skin structure and appearance.
In some cases, we may apply add-on serums such as vitamin C or retinol to the area, as the micro-channels created in the skin can enhance product absorption.
All up, your treatment will take 30 – 45 minutes. If you require topical numbing cream for deeper treatments, additional time will be required.
How to prepare for micro-needling
Before treatment, you’ll be given specific pre-treatment instructions. Please follow these carefully, as preparation plays an important role in both the safety and effectiveness of micro-needling.
Typically, pre-treatment instructions are as follows:
- Avoid using all active ingredients (AHA, BHA, exfoliating scrubs, vitamin C, retinoids, etc.) for a week before treatment. These products can make the skin more reactive and increase the risk of irritation.
- Minimise sun exposure and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily leading up to treatment. Sunburnt or excessively tanned skin is not suitable for micro-needling as it can increase the risk of complications.
- If you’re prone to cold sores around the mouth, you may be recommended to take antiviral medication on the days leading up to treatment to help avoid a herpes outbreak.
Finally, make sure you arrive for your appointment with clean, makeup-free skin.
Immediately post-treatment: what to expect
Immediately after your treatment, your skin will appear red and feel warm, a bit like you’ve got moderate sunburn. You may also notice some swelling and slight pinpoint bleeding due to the fine needling; however, this usually settles quickly.
In the next day or two, you may notice redness, sensitivity, and a dry, itchy feeling in the skin. These effects are a normal part of the healing process. Depending on the intensity of your treatment, mild flaking and peeling can also occur over the next few days as the skin renews itself.
Most people experience minimal downtime and can return to normal daily activities within a day or two; this can vary depending on the depth of your treatment. If you’re concerned about downtime, talk to your nurse about realistic expectations so that you can plan your week accordingly.
Microneedling after-care
After-care is incredibly important. It supports your skin while it pulls out all the stops to heal, and is quite sensitive and vulnerable during this time, so treat your skin with care.
- For the first 24 hours, we recommend avoiding makeup, as the micro-channels and the skin are still open and can allow bacteria or irritants to enter.
- Change to a fresh, clean pillowcase
- Keep your skin dry and hydrated during this time.
- Cleanse your skin with a gentle, basic cleanser and use a simple, hydrating moisturiser.
- Stay out of the sun as much as possible and use a SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen whenever you step outdoors.
- Avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or heat exposure for the first day or two. This means no intense exercise, hot baths or saunas. Heat will only exacerbate redness and irritation.
- Avoid active ingredients such as retinoids, exfoliating agents and strong antioxidants for several days until the skin has fully recovered. Talk to your nurse about your products so they can guide you when it’s safe to reintroduce them.
- Do not pick or scratch at your skin while it is healing, even if mild peeling occurs. Interfering with the healing process can increase the risk of irritation or post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Seeing results
After a week or so, you may notice slight improvements, such as a subtle glow or a different skin texture. However, the real results will develop gradually over time, as collagen production is a slow, ongoing process.
Most people require a series of treatments (usually 3 to 5 sessions), typically spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. The exact number of treatment sessions depends on your skin’s concern and desired outcome. During your initial consultation, your nurse will present you with an individualised treatment plan that outlines the number of sessions suggested and the time between them.
For example, if you have acne scarring or deep wrinkles, you may require more sessions than someone wanting some subtle skin rejuvenation. Maintenance treatments may also be recommended to sustain your results over the long term.
Who can have micro-needling?
Micro-needling is generally considered safe for most skin types when performed by a trained and qualified professional. However, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain conditions, such as active skin infections, severe acne, eczema or a history of poor wound healing. Your suitability for treatment will be determined during your initial consultation.
If you’d like to find out more about Skin needling, please call the clinic today on 1300 726 272.
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. Results can vary between individuals. This treatment may not be suitable for everyone. A consultation with a qualified practitioner is essential before any treatment, and potential risks and side effects should be discussed during this consultation.
Samara Aesthetics is conveniently located at 918 Beaufort Street, Inglewood, near Morley, Maylands, Mt Lawley, Dianella, Bayswater, Bedford and North Perth.
