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Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery

Microneedling

What is microneedling?

Microneeding, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), punctures the top layer of the skin with tiny needles, creating micro injuries that stimulate the skin’s healing response and boosts collagen and elastin production. We treat the following conditions with microneedling:

  • Acne Scars
  • Brown Spots / Uneven Pigment
  • Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Skin Texture
  • Preventative Skin Health
  • Surgical / Traumatic Scars
  • Sun Damage

There are three different types of Microneedling treatments that are used at the UNC Center for Facial Aesthetics:

Cosmetic needling (Depth 0.1 mm)

  • Utilizes short needles that do not penetrate deep enough to reach blood vessels
  • Enhances the ability of products to penetrate the skin

Medical needling & surgical needling (Depth 1.5 mm – 3.0 mm)

  • Only a trained medical professional should perform this procedure in a physician’s office
  • Requires a topical anesthetic prior to treatment
  • Tiny blood vessels are pierced that in turn release growth factors and create new collagen
  • Used to improve the appearance of scars, and to reduce wrinkles and improve skin laxity

What are the benefits of microneedling?

Microneedling increases the penetration and effectiveness of topical products and stimulates collagen production, blood circulation, and tissue regeneration. Microneedling also improves skin texture by minimizing the appearance of pores and wrinkles. It can also improve the appearance of stretch marks and scars.

What is the process of microneedling?

Pricking the skin to cause bleeding results in a platelets releasing a complex cascade of growth factors; most importantly TGF transformative growth factors. Various types of TGF are responsible for a multitude of functions, including:

  • Developing a thicker epidermis
  • Activating fibroblasts
  • Building more collagen and elastin
  • Inhibiting the formation of pigmentation

What can I expect during microneedling?

Before the treatment a topical anesthetic cream is applied to the area being treated. After the numbing cream has been on the skin for a period of time, the skin is cleansed and a serum is applied. Your provider will glide a handheld device along the skin surface. You may experience mild sensitivity, inflammation, and redness immediately after treatment, which typically subsides in a few hours.

How long does it take to see results from microneedling?

Healing time will depend on each individual’s response, however on average visible improvements can be seen within the first week after treatment and continue to develop over several weeks. We typically recommend a series of treatments depending on the condition of the skin, a series of 4 treatments spaced every 4-6 weeks is recommended for optimal results.

 

If you would like to schedule a microneedling consultation at the UNC Center for Facial Aesthetics, please call 984-974-2255 to make an appointment.