What is microneedling?

Microneedling is an advanced skin treatment that creates micro punctures to the skin with a tiny 12 pin sterile needle cartridge, to aid with scarring, hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, ageing skin, fine lines, wrinkles and skin laxity.

How it works?

The micro punctures to the skin during treatment causes minor trauma which triggers the body’s immune response to heal the treated area, that results in the production of collagen and elastin which then aids:

  • Reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and aids facial sagging. This is due to the the collagen and elastin production. It also encourages new skin cell creation that makes these lines and wrinkles less apparent, and tighten the skin.
  • Sun damage treatment. For skin that has an appearance of sun damage, the collagen and elastin can even out the tone and give more of a healthy complexion.
  • Dull skin. The collagen and elastin production will leave the skin with a healthy, radiant and fresh glow.
  • Reduces pores. When the collagen around the pores is stimulated, the inflammation around the pores shrinks the pore and encourages it to almost disappear.
  • Improves the effectiveness of topical products. Products applied post microneedling is more effective as they will be massaged deeper into the dermis through the micro holes giving maximum effect.
  • Rosacea reduction. This condition is usually due to the breakdown and lack of collagen being produced. By carrying out this treatment and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, this should overall make your skin less inflamed and irritated.

The treatment is minimally invasive and typically takes around 20minutes, with minimal discomfort however, the appointment time is 30minutes The client can choose whether they would like to have a deeper treatment dependant on their requirements, they can also apply numbing cream prior to the appointment if needed.
The depth of treatment can vary depending upon the individual, and can be up to 3mm deep, however, it is advised to start with a maximum depth of 1mm to begin. The needles create minimal skin deep wounds, not even deep enough to cause bleeding, and the body responds by producing collagen and elastin to heal the area, that can have many amazing benefits.

Microneedling is recommended every 4-6weeks for maximum benefits and is exceptionally effective straight after dermaplaning treatment. This is due to targeting the fresh new skin following that particular treatment. Although the skin is noticeably different after only one treatment, for those looking to significantly improve their overall skin, several sessions may be required.

Who is a suitable candidate?

This treatment is suitable for all skin types of all ages, but is more effective for those with dull, dehydrated, or tired skin, those with mild signs of ageing, scarring, hyperpigmentation or uneven skin. This is a treatment that everyone can have.

Which kind do I need?

AJ Aesthetics offers 3 different microneedling options:

The glow treatment – suitable for hyperpigmentation, age spots or dull and tired skin.

The refresh treatment – suitable for troubled or sensitive skin, for example acne.

The tight treatment – suitable for fine lines, wrinkles and dehydrated skin.

What to expect after treatment?

  • Whilst there is an instant change within the skin, this is a treatment that gets better over time, and visible results after 2-3 sessions.
  • Bruising, minor abrasions, and swelling can occur, although this is rare.
  • Redness is to be expected and is completely normal, this usually settles within 24 hours, but on some occasion it can last a couple of days.
  • Although this treatment causes no physical downtime, it is important to consider if you have plans the same day as treatment, due to the redness it can cause.
  • If there is a holiday coming up, it is important to allow one week for this treatment, to ensure the skin does not significantly burn, it is important to apply SPF for at least 7 days post treatment,
  • If you have previously suffered from facial cold sores, there is a risk that the needle punctures could contribute to another eruption of cold sores, so please also bear this in mind prior to treatment.
  • It is also important to avoid any excess sun exposure, extremes of hot/cold, saunas, swimming or strenuous exercise until the redness and swelling has fully settled. 
  • Avoid makeup or facial products for 24-48 hours post treatment.
  • If needed antihistamines and cool pack (not ice pack) can be used to reduce swelling post treatment. Arnica cream or gel can also be applied post treatment for any bruising to encourage healing, or tablet form is also available and can be used for 7-14 days post treatment.