What is Microneedling?

Microneedling, also known as Stem Cell Facial or a Vampire Facial when combined with Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), is an effective technique for skin rejuvenation and can improve aged sagging skin, fine lines and wrinkles, smokers lines around lips, skin tightening and rejuvenation, large pores, hair loss, stretch marks, and scars.

Microneedling for hair loss,  or alopecia areata, has been used with encouraging results. Stretch marks, acne scars, and under eye bags and discoloration can be treated extremely well with microneedling due to its ability to stimulate new collagen fibers.

Used in conjunction with PRP, microneedling is very good for melasma and dark circles as it has a ‘blanching’ effect and breaks up skin pigmentation by suppressing the production of melanocytes.

Stretch marks can benefit from microneedling using PRP and RF (radiofrequency) energy in order to stimulate new collagen fibers. Multiple sessions are needed to achieve tangible results.

Microneedling Pen

The microneedling pen uses micro needles to make tiny openings in the skin and stimulate collagen production. For better results, Dr DeJuliis uses the patient’s own stem cells (or PRP) that are obtained after a simple blood drawing done in the comfort and privacy of her Medical Spa. Scientific research has shown that when stem cells are applied to the skin after creating the micro channels, the patient can see better and faster results.

Microneedling Without Stem Cells

Microneedling can also be performed without using stem cells for patients who do not wish to have, or feel uncomfortable with, a blood drawing.

When using a microneedling pen, the treatment can feel like small pricks on the skin. Because Dr DeJuliis can regulate the depth of needle, the sensation can vary. Some discomfort can be felt for scars but over all, the treatment is very well tolerated, with little to no downtime. Make-up can be applied two to three hours after the procedure if desired.

When can I expect results from microneedling?

Significant results can be seen in six to eight weeks.

Patients will require a number of treatments, based on the skin concern. The average number is three to four treatments, one every three weeks. Acne scars and stretch marks need more sessions, on average five or six. 

Sun block effective against UVB and UVA rays is a must after each microneedling treatment. 

Medical microneedling is performed by a physician and is no comparison to similar treatments done in a spa by an aesthetician or with at-home microneedling devices.

For those patients who would like to combine skin tightening via radio-frequency (RF) with microneedling, then Vivace might be an option. DrD tailors all treatments based on the patient’s desired outcome and can advise if Vivace is a better treatment option.