Microneedling can be used to improve the look of wrinkles, acne scars, stretch marks, and reduce hyperpigmentation. It involves using a tattoo machine to make very small punctures in the skin in order to produce more collagen. This can also be referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy (CPT), as these micro-injuries translate to the skin to produce more collagen in order to start healing the skin.
Collagen is a protein that aids in the structural strength of the skin. It is the element that makes the skin thicker and more youthful. As we age the amount of collagen we produce decreases – creating wrinkles. Our collagen levels start decreasing by 1-2% each year after the age of 20, and other factors such as exposure to sun and smoking, can compromise our skin’s structural integrity.
Microneedling will not damage the skin, and is safe to repeat every 4-6 weeks. It can also be used in places that are not safe for laser resurfacing such as the chest, hands, mouth, and eyes.