Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that has gained immense popularity in the beauty industry.

Introduction

By utilizing fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, microneedling stimulates the body’s natural wound healing process, promoting collagen production and enhancing skin texture.

Following a structured protocol for microneedling is crucial for achieving optimal results. A well-defined microneedling facial protocol not only maximizes the benefits—such as improved skin texture and increased collagen production—but also minimizes potential risks and side effects.

To further enhance the results of microneedling, incorporating high-quality products such as human stem cell serum can be beneficial. These serums, which are known for their growth factor properties, can significantly aid in skin healing and regeneration post-treatment.

Key takeaway: This article provides you with a comprehensive guide to the microneedling protocol, offering insights and tips to help you achieve the best possible outcomes from your treatments. For those interested in understanding more about the science behind these treatments, resources available on Bradceuticals’ education page can provide valuable insights. Additionally, exploring the scientific aspects of growth factors can further enrich your understanding of how these elements play a crucial role in skin health and healing.

Understanding Microneedling

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the appearance and texture of your skin. It involves the use of fine needles to create controlled microinjuries on the surface of your skin. These tiny punctures trigger the body’s natural healing processes, promoting collagen and elastin production—key proteins responsible for maintaining youthful and firm skin.

How Microneedling Works:

1. Controlled Microinjuries: The microneedling device, which can be a pen, roller, or stamp, creates thousands of micro-channels in the skin.
2. Healing Response: These controlled injuries stimulate the body’s wound-healing mechanisms without causing significant damage.
3. Collagen and Elastin Production: As your skin repairs itself, it produces more collagen and elastin. This improves skin texture, reduces fine lines, and enhances overall elasticity.

Benefits:

• Improved Skin Texture: Regular microneedling sessions can smooth out rough patches and reduce the appearance of large pores.
• Enhanced Collagen Production: Increased collagen levels help in reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
• Elastin Boost: A boost in elastin keeps your skin firm and supple, counteracting sagging.

Understanding these core aspects of microneedling helps you appreciate why following a structured microneedling facial protocol is crucial for achieving optimal results.

Preparing for Microneedling Treatment

1. Consultation Appointment with a Qualified Professional

Preparation for microneedling treatment begins with a consultation appointment with a qualified professional. This step is crucial in assessing your suitability for the procedure and discussing your skin goals.

• Assessment of Suitability: During the consultation, the practitioner will evaluate your skin type, medical history, and specific concerns to determine if microneedling is suitable for you. Certain conditions, such as active acne or skin infections, may require postponing the treatment until they are resolved.
• Discussion of Goals: This appointment provides an opportunity to communicate your skin goals. Whether you aim to reduce fine lines, improve skin texture, or diminish scars, clearly expressing your objectives helps the professional tailor the treatment to your needs.
• Customized Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment and discussion, a customized treatment plan will be created. This plan outlines the number of sessions required, the depth of needle penetration, and any additional treatments that may enhance results.
• Pre-Treatment Instructions: You will receive specific instructions on how to prepare your skin before the procedure. This may include stopping certain skincare products like retinoids and exfoliants a week prior to treatment to minimize irritation.

By thoroughly preparing during this consultation phase, you set a solid foundation for achieving optimal results from your microneedling sessions.

2. Skin Preparation Techniques Before Microneedling

Proper skin preparation prior to undergoing a microneedling session is crucial for minimizing potential side effects and optimizing results. Here are some recommended practices:

• Stop Using Retinoids and Exfoliants: At least one week before your treatment, discontinue the use of retinoids and exfoliants. These products can make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation during the procedure.
• Cleanse with an Antimicrobial Cleanser: On the day of the treatment, cleanse your skin thoroughly with an antimicrobial cleanser to remove any impurities and reduce the risk of infection.
• Disinfect the Treatment Area: The area to be treated should be disinfected to ensure it is free from bacteria and other contaminants. This step is essential for preventing post-treatment complications.
• Hydrate Your Skin: Keeping your skin hydrated in the days leading up to the treatment can improve its resilience and healing capacity. Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer as part of your daily routine.

By following these skin preparation techniques, you set the stage for a successful microneedling session, reducing the likelihood of adverse reactions and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

3. Numbing Cream Application During Treatment

Numbing cream is an essential part of microneedling sessions as it helps to reduce discomfort. The numbing agent is usually applied 30-45 minutes before the procedure, giving enough time for the skin to become desensitized to the tiny injuries caused by the device.

How Numbing Cream is Applied

A thick layer of numbing cream is spread evenly over the treatment area. This topical anesthetic ensures that you remain comfortable throughout your session.

Benefits of Numbing Cream

By reducing pain, numbing cream allows the practitioner to perform the procedure more effectively, as you are less likely to flinch or move during treatment.

Proper application of numbing cream makes a significant difference in your microneedling experience, enhancing both comfort and results.

The Step-by-Step Microneedling Procedure Protocol

A structured protocol is key to achieving optimal results in microneedling. Here’s a detailed overview of each step involved in a typical microneedling treatment session:

1. Cleansing the Skin

• Begin with an antimicrobial cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup.
• Disinfect the treatment area with sterile saline to ensure a clean surface.

2. Numbing Cream Application

• Apply a topical numbing cream to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
• Allow the cream to sit for about 20-30 minutes before removing it thoroughly.

3. Microneedling Device Preparation

• Choose your microneedling device: pen, roller, or stamp.
• Sterilize the device and ensure it’s in proper working condition.

4. Performing the Microneedling

• Adjust needle depth according to treatment goals:
• Shallow depths (0.5mm) for pore size reduction and fine lines.
• Medium depths (1.0mm) for mild scars and stretch marks.
• Deeper depths (1.5mm-2.0mm) for significant wrinkles and deep acne scars.
• Use circular motions to cover the entire treatment area evenly.

5. Application of Serums During Treatment

Apply a hyaluronic acid serum or growth factors to enhance penetration and effectiveness as you work through different areas.

6. Post-Treatment Cleansing

Gently cleanse the skin again to remove any residual blood or serum.

7. Applying Post-Treatment Serums

Use soothing products like hyaluronic acid masks or specialized serums specifically designed for post-microneedling care.

Each step in this protocol ensures both safety and effectiveness, leading to improved skin texture, reduced fine lines, and enhanced collagen production.

Post-Treatment Care for Optimal Results

1. Soothing Products to Use After Microneedling

Effective microneedling aftercare is essential for achieving the best results. Using the right soothing products can significantly impact your skin’s recovery process.

Bradceuticals Gold Mesenchymal Stem Cell Growth Factor Serum

• Stem cell growth factors serum: Bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cell growth factors are known for its powerful healing properties, growth factors promote faster healing and reducing redness.
• Masks and serums: Hyaluronic acid masks and serums are ideal post-treatment options. They provide intense hydration, which can soothe the skin and help repair the micro-injuries caused by the procedure.

Aloe Vera Gel

• Natural soothing agent: Aloe vera gel is another excellent option. It has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and discomfort while providing a cooling sensation.
• Application: Apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to the treated area to calm irritation and support healing.

Centella Asiatica (Cica) Creams

• Skin repair: Centella Asiatica, commonly known as Cica, is renowned for its skin-repairing capabilities. Cica creams can accelerate wound healing and minimize scarring.
• Usage: Gently apply Cica cream to nourish the skin and enhance its regenerative processes.

2. Avoiding Sun Exposure and Irritants Post-Microneedling

Protecting your skin from external factors is crucial during the recovery phase after microneedling.

Sun Protection

• Sunscreen application: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This protects your skin from harmful UV rays that can worsen post-treatment sensitivity.
• Physical barriers: Consider wearing hats or using umbrellas when outdoors to provide additional protection against sun exposure.

Avoiding Irritants

• Skincare products to avoid: Steer clear of retinoids, exfoliants, and any products containing alcohol or fragrances until your skin fully recovers. These ingredients can cause irritation and hinder the healing process.
• Gentle skincare routine: Adopt a gentle skincare routine with mild cleansers and moisturizers that do not strip away natural oils or disrupt your skin’s barrier function.

Consistent post-treatment care ensures optimal results from your microneedling session. By incorporating these soothing products into your aftercare regimen, you promote faster healing while maximizing the benefits of your treatment.

2. Avoiding Sun Exposure and Irritants Post-Microneedling

After microneedling, your skin is especially sensitive and needs careful attention to heal properly. It’s important to follow the aftercare guidelines for microneedling to support recovery and improve results.

Protecting Your Skin from Sun Damage

The sun’s harmful UV rays can make your skin more sensitive after treatment, increasing the chances of dark spots and slowing down the healing process. Here’s how you can protect your skin:

• Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day.
• Wear Protective Clothing: When you’re outside, wear hats and clothes that cover the areas treated.
• Seek Shade: Whenever possible, stay in shaded areas to limit direct sun exposure.

Avoiding Potential Irritants

Some products and activities can irritate your skin while it’s recovering. To prevent further irritation after microneedling, follow these guidelines:

• Skip Harsh Skincare Products: For at least a week after treatment, avoid using retinoids, exfoliants, and products containing alcohol.
• Gentle Cleansing: Cleanse your face with mild, non-abrasive cleansers.
• Refrain from Swimming: Chlorine in swimming pools can irritate treated skin, so it’s best to avoid swimming for a few days after the procedure.

By following these practices, you’ll be able to make the most of your microneedling session and minimize any potential side effects.

Exploring Advanced Techniques in Microneedling Protocols

Microneedling has seen significant advancements with techniques like RF microneedling and PRP microneedling, each offering unique benefits for various skin concerns.

RF Microneedling

RF (radiofrequency) microneedling combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency energy. This method targets deeper layers of the skin, enhancing collagen and elastin production. Benefits include:

• Improved skin texture: RF microneedling is particularly effective for reducing the appearance of deep scars and wrinkles.
• Enhanced tightening: The radiofrequency energy promotes skin tightening, making it suitable for anti-aging treatments.
• Minimal downtime: Despite its deeper impact, RF microneedling typically requires less recovery time compared to other intensive treatments.

PRP Microneedling

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) microneedling uses the patient’s own blood to extract growth factors that are then applied during the microneedling process. This technique amplifies the body’s natural healing response. Key benefits include:

• Accelerated healing: The growth factors in PRP speed up the healing process, reducing redness and inflammation post-treatment.
• Enhanced results: Combining PRP with microneedling can significantly improve outcomes for conditions like acne scars, pigmentation, and overall skin rejuvenation.
• Natural approach: Since PRP uses your own blood, it minimizes the risk of allergic reactions or complications.

These advanced techniques provide tailored solutions for different skin issues, making them valuable additions to the standard microneedling protocol.

Finding a Qualified Dermatologist or Esthetician for Microneedling Treatments

Choosing the right practitioner is crucial for safe and effective microneedling treatments. Here are some tips to help you find a qualified professional:

• Check Credentials: Ensure the practitioner is licensed and certified in dermatology or esthetics. Look for additional certifications in microneedling.
• Experience Matters: Opt for practitioners with extensive experience specifically in microneedling. Ask about the number of procedures they have performed.
• Read Reviews and Testimonials: Research online reviews and client testimonials. Positive feedback from previous patients can be a good indicator of quality service.
• Consultation Appointment: Schedule an initial consultation to discuss your goals, ask questions, and gauge their expertise and professionalism.
• Clinic Hygiene Standards: Visit the clinic to check cleanliness and hygiene standards. A well-maintained environment is essential for safe procedures.

Making an informed choice ensures you receive the best care and achieve optimal results from your microneedling treatment.

Reference articles

https://sncs-prod-external.mayo.edu/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/skin-needling-procedure

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8518615

https://www.dermapenworld.com/dermapen-professional/dermapen-treatment-protocols

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About Bradceuticals : Thuy Myers is the founder of Bradceuticals which manufactures and distributes skin care and hair regrowth serums that use growth factors from human stem cells as the catalyst for regeneration. When she is not busy running the business and maintaining blogs, she is continuing her practice as a semiconductor engineer and occasionally teaches college engineering. In her free time, she enjoys visiting the beach with her MUCH better half, working out at the gym, and hanging out with her kiddo.