Microneedling

Microneedling is a technique of cutaneous stimulation, based on fine sterile needles which make superficial and regular micro-perforations at the surface of the skin. These micro-lesions are intended to call upon the physiological repair mechanisms of the dermis, including the synthesis of collagen, in order to support the gradual remodelling of the skin tissue. The skin’s response remains particular to each person, variable from one individual to another, and cannot be anticipated.

The session begins with the removal of make-up and the disinfection of the area to be treated. Depending on the region concerned and each person’s sensitivity, the prior application of an anaesthetic cream may be envisaged, this point being discussed before the procedure. The passes are then carried out methodically, the depth being adapted to the thickness of the skin and to the objective retained. The number of sessions, their spacing and the length of each appointment depend on the situation and are specified in consultation.

The face is the area most often concerned, but other regions may be envisaged, such as the neck, the décolleté or the backs of the hands. Microneedling is considered in situations such as an uneven skin texture, a loss of firmness or enlarged pores, as in the case of certain scars, notably acne scars. It is not suited, however, either to all skins or to all situations: an ongoing skin infection, certain dermatological conditions, a tendency to pathological scarring or a pregnancy are among the elements that I assess, and that may lead to the procedure being deferred or set aside.

After-effects may occur in the days that follow, such as redness, a sensation of warmth, sensitivity, oedema or peeling, the intensity and duration of which vary from person to person and according to the depth of the work carried out. Less frequent complications remain possible and are addressed before the procedure, as are the care instructions and sun avoidance. A prior consultation is compulsory: it allows the skin to be examined, the contraindications to be looked for, each patient to be informed of the risks as well as the alternatives, and a determination to be made as to whether microneedling is indicated in their situation, which is not always the case.