Microneedling

In a nutshell, a microneedling treatment involves the controlled insertion of microchannels into the top layer of skin. The stimulation in the connective tissue releases growth factors and stimulates the fibroblasts that are responsible for the production of collagen and elastin. The skin receives an intensive boost and the improvement of the skin condition can be seen immediately.

Once the needle is inserted vertically, the first phase, also called inflammation phase, begins. This phase occurs immediately after needle insertion. Growth factors are released that cause proliferation and increase of fibroblasts in the first 3 days. There is formation of collagen type I + III (mainly type III).

Phase 2 is also called the proliferation phase, which begins after 3 to 21 days. Migration of fibroblasts takes place to the wound area and, under the influence of growth factors, the production of collagen type I+III continues.

Phase 3 is called the remodeling phase, collagen type III (scar tissue) is replaced by collagen type I. This type of collagen is important because it is responsible for maintaining a natural elasticity of the skin. With aging, the decrease of collagen type I causes the appearance of fine lines and deeper wrinkles.

The whole process takes 3 months or even years. So a microneedling treatment is really a long-term investment in the skin!

During a microneedling treatment, very fine needles are used that vibrate through a special device to make tiny holes in the skin that form channels. By making the tiny holes, the production of collagen and elastin is stimulated. This causes the reduction of fine lines and a stronger smoother skin. It is possible to combine the treatment with skin nutrients such as hyaluronic acid or PRP, among others, which is absorbed extra well by the skin.

Microneedling is not completely painless but the treatments are generally very well tolerated. During a microneedling treatment, different depths can be worked on. Often no anesthesia is used during a superficial microneedling treatment. A deeper microneedling treatment can be sensitive. This is why anesthesia is used. Often there are also blood dots.

The amount of treatments depends on the condition of the skin and the desired result. The result of a microneedling treatment is not immediately visible. It takes at least 6 weeks for the skin to produce collagen and elastin after the first treatment.

When microneedling is used to reduce fine lines, several treatments are required and the final result is visible after 4 to 6 months.

For the reduction of pigmentation spots and scars, multiple treatments are also required but results are often visible after 2 to 3 months. On average, 6 treatments will be required with 2 to 4 weeks between each treatment.

A microneedling treatment can be fully or partially reimbursed by the health insurance company. However, this depends on your package and in some cases additional insurance is necessary. In addition, the amount reimbursed per year varies per health insurance company. Microneedling treatment is not covered for all indications. Ask one of our specialists whether a reimbursement is possible. Also, in some cases a referral from the general practitioner is required.

The skin should be well protected from the sun for several weeks after the microneedling treatment by applying sunscreen with a high protection factor. This will prevent pigment discoloration.

A microneedling treatment is a very safe treatment in which the risk of complications is very small. Very rarely, the following complications occur: prolonged redness and pigment shifts.

After a microneedling treatment, the skin may be slightly red for the first few days. The redness recedes after a few days. Slight scaling may also occur, but this is not true in all cases. After a microneedling treatment, it is possible to return to work immediately. The skin is slightly redder but can be camouflaged well with mineral makeup.

With very intense and deep treatments, scabs may form, which can temporarily cause the skin to look somewhat unsightly. During a free consultation will be discussed what is needed and how long the recovery will be. The actual recovery period varies per person.

A microneedling treatment is ideally suited for the following conditions:

• Skin sag
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• (Acne) scars
• Sun damage
• Pigment disorder
• Coarse skin texture and enlarged pores
• Striae and stretch marks
• Rosacea
• Alopecia and baldness

Ask our skin therapist for advice on your skin condition and whether microneedling is the right solution. In fact, Ivy clinics has many different treatment methods, sometimes for the same condition.

By stimulating collagen, the elasticity and firmness of the skin is visibly improved, resulting in a younger and fresher appearance.

To achieve maximum results, it is always recommended to undergo a course of 6 treatments with an interval of three to 6 weeks, depending on the indication.

The final result will become visible after several months because the production of new collagen in the skin takes time. This is due to the different phases the skin goes through during microneedling.

Although the skin should be protected from the sun daily (reapply sunscreen every 2 hours), it is extra important during a microneedling treatment to protect the skin from UV radiation with at least an SPF 30. This is important to protect your skin from accelerated aging, prevent pigmentation and maintain results.