MICRO-NEEDLING

 

Microneedling is a simple office-based procedure. The treated area is anesthetized with numbing cream for 15-20 minutes. After preparation of the area, rolling is done 15-20 times in horizontal, vertical, and oblique directions; pin-point bleeding which occurs is easily controlled. After the treatment, the area is wetted with saline pads. The entire procedure lasts for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the extent of the area to be treated.

 

 

Microneedling is well tolerated by patients but skin redness may be seen after treatment, lasting for 2-3 days. Patient is advised to stay away from sunlight for a week and local antibiotic creams may be prescribed. 

 

Apart from skin redness, no other side effects have been reported. As the microholes close immediately, postoperative infections do not occur. The procedure is well tolerated and well accepted by the patients, is cost-effective, can be done on all skin types and on areas not suitable for peeling or laser resurfacing, such as near eyes. Microneedling with dermaroller can be combined with other acne scar treatments like subcision, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and fractional resurfacing, thus maximizing the benefits to the patients.

 

For moderate scar, 3 to 4 treatments spaced at 6-8 weeks is recommended, as it takes long for new natural collagen to form.