Micro Needling
Micro-Needling to heal illness and improve well-being
Microneedling is the insertion of very fine, tiny needles into the skin for the purpose of rejuvenation. It is also known as Collagen Induction Therapy. Unlike manual needling or dermal rollers, Green Crescent Clinic uses a professional, automated Class II medical device that creates a series of oscillating micro-injuries in the skin.
Microneedling is the insertion of very fine, tiny needles into the skin for the purpose of rejuvenation. It is also known as Collagen Induction Therapy. Unlike manual needling or dermal rollers, Green Crescent Clinic uses a professional, automated Class II medical device that creates a series of oscillating micro-injuries in the skin. This has scientifically been proven to greatly stimulate collagen and elastin production and blood flow, which improve the skin appearance by making it more firm, smooth and bright. The microneedling creates superficial micro-channels through which topical serums, moisturizers and creams can penetrate deeper and increase absorption by 20-30 times and further improve the beauty of the skin.
Microneedling can significantly reduce and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, flabby skin, hyper-pigmentation, acne scars, and stretch marks. Depending on the depth of the micro-needle penetration, the level of skin rejuvenation can range from simple tightening and firming of the skin to the clinical treatment of wrinkles and scars. Research has shown that microneedling can increase collagen production by up to 10 fold depending on how it is performed and the patient’s medical condition. Microneedling can be used with all skin colors and although it is most frequently used on the face, it can also be used on the neck, arms, hands, legs, abdomen and back. Microneedling done on the scalp has also been found to promote hair growth.
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Holistic Medicine recognize the fact that facial health is a microcosm of overall health. At Green Crescent Clinic, besides offering microneedling of particular areas, we also provide simultaneous body acupuncture that is customized for each patient based on his or her medical history. We also provide at no extra cost simultaneous red light therapy (which has also been proven to help increase collagen) while laying on a biomat, which provides therapeutic pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) energy and far infrared therapy.
The staff doctor also provides a treatment plan for patients to improve their health using, holistic and natural methods.
First, a topical lidocaine cream is applied to numb the skin and ensure a comfortable treatment without any significant pain. Next, any makeup is removed with cleansing wipes and a thin layer of topical gel, typically hyaluronic acid, is applied. The microneedling pen is gently pressed against the skin (average depth 0.5 – 1.5 mm) while simultaneously gliding in one direction until the treatment area has been fully covered. Now that the skin is more highly absorbent, moisturizing gels and customized serums (for different applications like wrinkles, scars, age spots, eye bags, hair growth) are then applied to the skin. The total treatment time for application of numbing cream, microneedling and serum application averages around 45 minutes.
Immediately after the treatment you will notice a bright redness to the skin. The skin may also feel warm, tight, tingly or slightly swollen. These feelings usually subside within 8 – 24 hours. Gentle moisturizers can be applied after the treatment. Soap, makeup, direct sunlight and sweat inducing activities are avoided for 24 hours after the treatment.
Microneedling is a medical procedure that is performed only by licensed professionals using a professional Class 2 medical device. In an effort to save money, some people opt for home rollers instead. However, some home dermal rollers hardly puncture the skin so they have poor results in stimulating collagen growth. Some dermal rollers puncture the skin too much by creating a burrough in the skin and can cause bleeding. These units are also not sterile so they are more risky for causing infection.
Most patients notice an immediate “glow” to their skin after their first session. Visible improvements to the skin and collagen production develop over the course of several days and weeks. While many patients see improvements after their first session, optimal results for skin tightening and mild wrinkling require a series of 3-4 treatments spaced about 4 weeks apart. For patients with deep wrinkles, advanced photo-aging, stretch marks, acne scars and hair loss it is recommended to receive 6-8 sessions. Results can last anywhere from 6 months to over a year after the treatments.
Other than the temporary effects within the 24 hours after the treatment described above, there are no negative long term side effects of microneedling. However, patients who should avoid microneedling or contraindications include those with skin infections, fever, severe psoriasis, eczema, acute acne, keloids and patients undergoing chemotherapy radiation and/or anticoagulant (blood thinners) therapy.
Since microneedling is considered a cosmetic or aesthetic procedure, it is not covered by insurance. At Green Crescent Clinic, the cost of microneedling is $275 – $325 per session depending on how many areas are treated, what type of adjunctive serums are used, and what package is purchased. Green Crescent Clinic is willing to work with patients to provide a payment plan and make it as affordable as possible.