Microneedling in Sacramento

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a type of skin care treatment that has been proven to treat fine lines, some forms of hyperpigmentation (brown spots on the face or body), scarring, rosacea and shrinking pores. The procedure, also known as collagen induction therapy, is performed at The Skincare and Laser Center through the use of the Bellus MicroPen. Doctors use the Bellus Micropen to gently puncture the skin with an oscillating tool that contains superfine needles which glide across the skin’s surface. These tiny puncture marks create columns under the skin’s surface which stimulate collagen production. This collagen production makes skin suppler and improves overall texture.

Treatment Details

Microneedling is performed in a series of treatments. We recommend a series of 3-6 treatments for optimal results. There is minimal discomfort during the procedure and minimal to moderate side effects for 24-48 hours. The side effects are redness, pinpoint bleeding for a few minutes after treatment, skin can feel rough for a period of a few days. Make-up should be avoided for 48 hours.

Microneedling is safe for young and more mature skin. The procedure is a quick in-office treatment and is performed every 4-8 weeks. There are no sun precautions with Microneedling, so this is a safe and effective treatment all year round. Microneedling can be used on all skin types and is safe for darker skin. People that form keloids or have active cystic acne should not receive Microneedling treatments.

How is the In-Office Procedure Different than Microneedling at Home?

We use the Bellus MicroPen in our Sacramento plastic surgery offices. This is a medical grade device that can treat at a depth of 2mm. Most of the dermal rolling devices that are purchased in a local shop or online are for depths of up to 0.5mm only (this is for your safety) and the needles cannot be changed. Our pens utilize 12 sterile 32gauge needles that are disposable cartridges and changed out with every use.

Microneedling FAQ

How does microneedling work, exactly?

While the tiny puncture marks made in your skin cause no permanent damage, they do prompt your body to generate extra collagen and elastin fibers. As more collagen is created over time, you should notice your skin get thicker, which then minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and scars.

What other skin imperfections can microneedling fix?

Patients have seen improvement to their acne scars, enlarged pores, rosacea, brown spots and irregular pigmentation thanks to microneedling. If you have a specific skin imperfection you would like to treat, please mention that during a consultation to allow our experts to determine whether or not microneedling is the right approach.

Will microneedling be painful?

Most patients experience only minimal discomfort during the procedure. At the Plastic Surgery Center, we apply a topical numbing agent to your skin prior to the treatment to minimize pain.

What will I look like immediately following microneedling?

Your skin will be swollen and red for a day or two following each treatment, though most bystanders will mistake this redness for sunburn rather than a cosmetic procedure.

When will I be able to notice my microneedling results?

It can take a few weeks for collagen production to produce visible results, so patience is key with microneedling. The most impressive part is that the results will gradually improve over time, with skin reaching its peak thickness after a few months.

Who can undergo microneedling?

Microneedling is safe and successful for all skin types and tones, on both young and old skin alike. Although certain skin treatments pose a risk of hyperpigmentation to certain skin types, that is not the case with this microneedling treatment.

However, there are some patients who should avoid microneedling: women who are pregnant or nursing, people with open wounds or current skin infection, people who take blood thinners, people who have a demonstrated history of excessive scarring or poor skin healing and anyone who has undergone radiation in the past year.

How often can I be treated by microneedling?

While most patients choose to undergo a few treatments, you are free to seek as many treatments as you wish until you attain your desired results. The only caveat is that treatments must be spaced out at least a month (sometimes two) apart to allow your skin time to recover before being treated again.

Why is the Plastic Surgery Center the best place in Sacramento to get microneedling?

Many places offer microneedling, but not all microneedling technology is created equally. Patients seek us out because we use the Bellus MicroPen, which is FDA approved and has proven to be highly effective at yielding amazing results. It is similarly important to seek a facility with professionals who understand how to gently administer these needle pokes. In untrained hands, microneedling can not only provide subpar results but also be harmful to your skin.

You can be assured that the Skincare and Laser Center works to bring in treatment modalities that are medical grade, safe and have proven and reproducible results.