As the name suggests in microneedling multiple microholes are made in skin with the help of a device dermaroller or dermapen. Formation of these holes stimulate healing, multiple growth factors are released. Ultimately this lead to induction of new collagen tissue, which helps in treating atrophic scars like in acne.
Because the process activated via micro-needling essentially generates new healthy skin cells to replace aged or damaged ones, applications for this procedure are very diverse. It has been used to treat visible signs of aging, such as skin atrophy and wrinkles, various types of scarring, stretch marks, several types of pigmentation disorders, sun damaged skin, hair loss, and much, much more.
Dermapen vs Dermaroller
Dermaroller is old device which consists of a rolling pin covered with tiny needles. During a derma roller treatment, the roller is rolled across the skin, leaving behind a trail of microscopic punctures.
Dermapen is a new automated oscillating device. It has several advantages over dermaroller, in dermapen treatment needles enter the skin at a 90 degree angle, eliminating the pain and epidermal tearing associated with dermal rollers. It has smaller surface area which comes in contact with the skin, which allows it to treat those hard to reach areas quickly, easily, and effectively, which are difficult to treat in dermaroller. Also with dermapen depth can be adjusted for different areas of face. Overall results are better and more consistent with dermapen.
PRP with microneedling
Platelet rich plasma is rich in growth factors. When PRP is used along with microneedling its penetration is increased into skin through these microchannels. Growth factors present in PRP stimulate better healing of microholes made during microneedling and leads to better scar treatment and facial rejuvenation.
Procedure
A topical anaesthetic cream is applied over face for 45 minutes. After that cream is removed and microneedling is done. There is minimal to no pain. It takes only 10 to 15 min for microneedling. After procedure there is mild erythema and swelling which usually subside in few hours. Usually multiple sessions are needed at 1monthly intervals.