It was 2013 when a certain, famous celebrity posted a photo of herself mid “vampire-facial”. She had gone with one of her celebrity sisters to get a facial coined the “vampire facial” because of the blood on the surface of her skin. So what was that all about? K.K was getting a microneedling treatment with PRP, and while the ‘vampire facial’ is still popular and effective, the world of microneedling has evolved tremendously since then. Here is everything you need to know about microneedling:
So how does microneedling work, exactly?
Why microneedling?
Microneedling improves everyone’s skin, no matter their skin type or concerns! With the use of whichever slip medium you choose and the efficacy of the micro-abrasions, microneedling can:
- Smooth-out uneven skin texture
- Improve the texture and appearance of scarring
- Promote collagen and elastin production
- Hydrate the skin
- Minimize the appearance pores
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- Smooth-out acne scarring
And more!
What is the downtime after microneedling?
Microneedling often requires four to five days for a full recovery. The skin may have a pink/reddish hue to it for the remainder of the day when you undergo microneedling and it can last for the duration of the following day.. The lingering redness can be compared to the look of a sunburn, with a mild pink/red tint. Sometimes, small scabs appear on the skin, which will eventually slough off as you follow the aftercare instructions. For the most effective results, it is recommended that microneedling be done monthly!
What’s the best type of microneedling for me?
At L&P, we offer four different types of microneedling services. All of them utilize the same device, but the difference lies in the product applied during the treatment! In order to get the best treatment for you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of L&P’s nonsurgical skincare experts. During your appointment, it is important to give your provider the most information about your skin and your goals so they can recommend the best topical serum to go along with your microneedling treatment. If you’re curious about what kind of serum they’d recommend, here are the different options we offer:
Microneedling with Hyaluronic Acid
If you’re looking for an introduction to microneedling, hyaluronic acid could be the best addition for you! Hyaluronic acid is a common and effective ingredient in skincare, known for being an all-around champion for healthy,glowy skin. Hyaluronic acid hydrates and adds volume to the face, while minimizing the effect of wrinkles, uneven texture, scars and more.
Microneedling with PRP or PRF
PRP and PRF are both components of your blood! Platelet rich plasma and platelet rich fibrin come from taking a sample of your blood and extracting only the PRP or PRF from it. This sample will then be utilized, through microneedling, to transform skin. Both PRP and PRF contain the body’s own growth stimulating and healing proteins, which contribute to the healing process and remarkable results PRP and PRF microneedling offer. PRP is better suited for younger skin, whereas PRF has a bigger impact on deeper wrinkles and crepey skin. You can learn more about the differences between PRF and PRP here.
Microneedling with Exosomes
Exosomes are a naturally occurring part of the cell, which are responsible for connecting and transmitting messages between cells. They’re almost like a little messenger! When we reintroduce new exosomes into the skin via microneedling, the preexisting and new exosomes all work together to wake up the skin cell- rejuvenation process. The new exosomes are active for up to eight months after your initial microneedling treatment, continuing the process of cross-cell communication. At L&P Aesthetics, we use The Exosome Regenerative Complex by Benev which is a formula of stem cell-derived exosomes combined with coenzymes, essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins. It comes in a powder or liquid form and can be applied topically, as an injection and even in conjunction with microneedling treatments for the face and for the scalp.
Still curious about microneedling?
Our Palo Alto and Los Gatos offices both offer the full array of microneedling services and have expert, qualified providers to administer your treatment! Schedule a consultation with us to meet with a provider who can address any questions you have and recommend the right treatment for you!
