Microneedling in Houston

Microneedling is a popular way of reducing skin blemishes, such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and stretch marks. It can also be an effective treatment for several medical conditions (more of that in a moment).

The following discusses what microneedling is, the conditions it’s used for, and what you should look for when seeking such a service. 

Microneedling: everything you’ve wanted to know but didn’t know who to ask

• What is microneedling?
• How microneedling works
• What to ask before you get microneedling in Houston or any other location

What is microneedling?

Microneedling works by increasing the skin’s natural collagen and elastin production. These are the two crucial proteins that support the structure of the skin. The process uses very thin needles to make tiny holes in the top layer of the skin. This minuscule amount of trauma stimulates the body’s healing process and causes the skin to become refreshed, firmer, and smoother.

The process is most usually carried out on the face. However, it’s also effective in other areas, such as the neck, arms, back, or any area where the skin is showing signs of ageing or damage. 

How microneedling works

Before the process starts, your skin will be cleansed, and a numbing cream will be applied. Once this has taken effect (usually after 30-45 minutes), a hand-held tool—often a small roller—will be passed over the treatment area. Some practitioners use an electric version that pulsates the needles to the required skin depth. Some marks require deeper penetration to bring the required results.

In many cases, a serum will be used during the process. This might contain peptides and antioxidants. Doing so allows the ingredients to be delivered to deeper levels of the skin, rather than simply on the surface. Most people need multiple sessions to see results—these can be anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks apart. You’ll begin to see the difference from around 3 months onwards. Following an initial course, it’s advised to have maintenance treatments every 12 months or so.

Conditions that see good results from microneedling include:

• Mild scarring, such as those from burns or acne
• Uneven skin tone
• Stretch marks
• Skin discoloration
• Thin, wrinkled, or crepey skin
• Fine lines
• Wrinkles
• Enlarged pores
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Some kinds of hair loss, such as alopecia areata

What to ask before you get microneedling in Houston or any other location

A good practitioner will fully explain the microneedling procedure to you. They’ll also ask what you expect to achieve from the process and question you about any various health conditions you might suffer from. 

If you have any of the following, these should be discussed at the earliest opportunity. They might mean that you’re not a suitable candidate for microneedling.

• You take anticoagulants (blood thinners)
• You have any type of blood disorder
• You suffer from frequent skin rashes
• You suffer from cold sores
• You have active acne
• You take acne medication
• You’ve been diagnosed with any condition that requires chemotherapy or radiation therapy
• You’ve got any moles that need to be investigated
• You have any type of skin condition, such as psoriasis or eczema

You should also expect to be told how the skin will react after the procedure, whether they recommend any alternative treatments, and the results you can expect to achieve. You should also ask about the practitioner’s qualifications. In many states, the process is considered a medical procedure because it penetrates the skin. However, some states allow estheticians to carry out microneedling under medical supervision.

For example, in Texas microneedling can only be carried out by an appropriately qualified physician – AKA, a dermatologist. While most practitioners are proud to display the qualifications that allow them to perform certain treatments, you should always carry out your due diligence to satisfy yourself that you’re in safe hands.

Want Microneedling in Houston? You need Bayou City Dermatology

While microneedling can be very effective in treating a range of cosmetic and medical conditions, it’s not suitable for everyone. At Bayou City Dermatology, our physician-led clinic offers the ultimate skin care service. At your initial consultation, your highly experienced dermatologist will take a full history and determine if microneedling is right for your needs.

Don’t entrust your precious skin to anyone other than an expert. Visit https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/cosmetic/microneedling for more information and call our friendly team today to book an appointment.