An increase in the amount or severity of facial wrinkles can lead to uncomfortable feelings. Many patients improve this problem with Botox injections, but sometimes they just can’t seem to get maximum results. Luckily, micro-needling has emerged as a safe and effective compliment to injections. Micro-needling is a procedure where a physician uses tiny needle pricks to gently injure wrinkled skin. The injured skin releases collagen and elastin as it begins the healing process. Collagen and elastin soften and thicken the skin. They are key in eliminating fine wrinkles and improving the skin’s appearance and texture.
Collagen and Elastin
Collagen is main structural protein found in connective tissue. It’s the most abundant protein in the body and is instrumental in healing processes. It helps wounds close by replacing damaged skin cells with stronger, less elastic tissue. For this reason, it’s commonly referred to as scar tissue.
Elastin is an elastic protein that is also found in connective tissues. It differs from collagen in that it doesn’t replace skin cells. It helps skin cells return to their position prior to injury. Many describe its action as similar to that of a rubber band that “snaps” skin back into place.
The Micro-Needling Procedure
The micro-needling procedure usually takes anywhere between 15-45 minutes. The physician slides a pen with a needled tip over the wrinkled area. As previously mentioned, this needled tip gently injures wrinkled skin. There is very little to no pain associated with the needle sticks. Redness and swelling around the injured area are the two most common side effects. It should be noted that the procedure might need to be completed multiple times to completely rid the face of wrinkles.
Results
Patients should not expect to see results the day of the procedure. There is usually a short period of time where the skin remains pink and dry. It’s recommended that a nutrient rich serum be applied to these areas throughout the day and exposure to sun be limited. When the skin recovers from the initial effects of the procedure, it will have a beautiful glow to it. Both deep and fine wrinkles will be reduced or removed. It should also be noted the procedure has also been used to remove scars and stretch marks.
Advantages
As a compliment to Botox, micro-needling has been shown to:
- Provide visible improvement in a few short days
- Decrease healing time
- Reduce permanent damage or injury
- Reduce risk of infection, bruising, and skin discoloration
In conclusion, micro-needling can and should be used as a safe and effective compliment to Botox. Patients who aren’t getting maximum results with injections shouldn’t get discouraged and give up on finding solutions to reducing wrinkles, stretch marks, and scars. Micro-needling is becoming increasingly popular and is one of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures. Those interested should contact a physician and arrange a consultation. Micro-needling as a compliment to Botox might be the answer to your wrinkle problems.