Made popular by Reality TV Queen, Kim Kardashian, the microneedling facial, also known as the vampire facial, stimulates blood flow and growth factors to the skin's surface, making the skin look and feel more youthful!
What is microneedling?
Microneedling is a process in which micro-injuries are made on the surface of the skin. This process stimulates the body's innate wound healing process with minimal cellular damage. The result is remodeling of scar tissue and stimulating collagen production. This remodeling process is most effective to reduce the appearance of acne scars, stretch marks, fine lines and wrinkles, and more!
With a microneedling rejuvenation facial, your fine lines, acne scars, and stretch marks can fade to result in a more supple and youthful appearance.
In my practice, I use the FDA-cleared SkinPen microneedling device that contains a sterile oscillating 14-point microneedling head. This device is proven safe and effective, delivering results that can last up to 6 months.
What is PRP?
PRP, platelet rich plasma, is the platelet concentrated portion of the blood that contains growth factors and nutrient-dense cells! By using your own platelets, the effects last beyond the time your microneedling facial series ends. Your platelets will continue to work for you-- they will fill your fine lines and wrinkles, diminish acne scars, make stretch marks disappear, and so much more!
Many patients opt to use their PRP rather than the hyaluronic acid gel because the results tend to last longer. Also, since the PRP is straight from the patient's vein, the likelihood of an allergic reaction goes down to zero.
Can microneedling rejuvenation facials take the place of botox?
This is one of the most-asked questions I get from women who want to know their options when it comes to aesthetics. So, the first thing I do is give them a mini rundown on the differences between Botox and Microneedling:
💉 Botox:
Doesn't directly treat the skin’s surface⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Injected directly into the muscles to cause partial paralysis. This decreases muscle movement preventing deep wrinkles. Therefore, if you are not able to move your muscles, deep wrinkles won't have the opportunity to form.
Effects slowly diminish. Repeated injections are necessary.
🧖🏻♀️ Microneedling:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Rejuvenates the skin by stimulating the production of healthy new cells. Hello, new skin! Hello, radiant and younger looking skin! Anti-aging? Yes, please!
Microscopic punctures on the skin to form new blood vessels to make new collagen and elastin, improving the texture of the skin’s surface making it smoother and resistant to wrinkles and fine lines.
The FDA-cleared microneedling device SkinPen is conveniently wireless and can be used anywhere on the body. Did someone say stretch marks? Well, let's say goodbye to those stretch marks!
Has a broader range of application. It not only prevents and treats fine lines & wrinkles (same as Botox), but it also helps with dark/sun spots, acne scars, stretch marks, and more!
Causes cellular rejuvenation between procedures. New skin cells all day, everyday! 💁🏻♀️
Skincare takeaway:
Do what feels right for your skincare needs. Microneedling is a great way to keep your youthful appearance longer. By stimulating blood flow to the skin's surface, growth factors are able to work to decrease the appearance of scars, fine lines, hyperpigmentation (dark spots), and stretch marks.
Find out if microneedling is for you!
If you’d like to work with me, call Olympus Movement Performance at 760.216.6047 in Vista, CA or The Adapt Lab clinic at 858.209.2400 in Solana Beach, CA to make an appointment. I look forward to helping you get your health back on track!
*Disclaimer: Although I am a doctor, I may not be your doctor. The information contained within the pages of this site are for educational purposes only and should not to be used to treat conditions. Please consult with your doctor before implementing any of the treatments, diets, supplements, etc. mentioned in this blog.*
*Dr. Francesca is an affiliate for Amazon and other companies. Some links contained within the blog posts may be affiliate links from which she receives a small commission at no extra cost to the customer.*