Microneedling

Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that utilizes tiny needles to create controlled microinjuries on the skin’s surface. This provokes the production of connective proteins. These proteins enhance your skin’s overall elasticity and health, promoting a youthful appearance with fewer signs of aging. Many patients choose microneedling sessions when they want to get rid of old scars, age spots, and fine wrinkles and lines. If you’re looking for a subtle, more natural-looking rejuvenation without significant downtime, microneedling may be the perfect treatment for you.

If you are considering microneedling or have any questions about the procedure, we invite you to schedule a personal consultation at Phoenix Skin Medical Surgical Group, located in both Scottsdale and Phoenix. Our state-of-the-art facilities offer the most advanced microneedling treatments, including microneedling paired with platelet-rich plasma (PRP).

The beautiful, radiant skin you desire is just a phone call away. Contact our office at (602) 222-9111(Phoenix) or (480) 473-9111 (Scottsdale), or visit our contact page to request an appointment; we will get back to you as soon as we can.

About Microneedling

As one of the most minimally invasive options available, microneedling appeals to those who want a relatively quick and easy solution for mild-to-moderate signs of aging. Patients are continually impressed with how many types of cosmetic issues can be treated simultaneously. These include:

Research into the principles behind microneedling began in the early 1900’s. In 1905, a German dermatologist named Dr. Ernst Kromayer began experimenting with skin exfoliation. His device is considered a primitive precursor to modern microneedling devices. As he was conducting his research, he discovered that his patients began to note that their birthmarks and scars were beginning to fade. In 1997, another major breakthrough occurred when Dr. Andre Camirand employed tattoo needles for a device he coined the microneedling “stamp”. This revolutionary step then led to the development of the microneedling “derma roller”, designed in 2006 by Dr. Desmond Fernandes. ⁽¹⁾

These advancements allowed patients to reap the benefits of skin revitalization with less damage to the skin.

What is the Collagen Pen?

At Phoenix Skin, we utilize the Collagen Pen as it remains one of the most popular newer microneedling devices available. The Collagen Pen has 36 needles, which is better for scarring than other microneedling devices, as there are more micro injuries for collagen and elastin production. Today, microneedling derma rollers and stamps are available for public purchase, but they have not been proven to be as effective as in-clinic Collagen Pen treatments. This is due to the fact that physicians have extensive knowledge of skin anatomy and how to best utilize various needle depths and diameters to help patients achieve the best results possible.

What are Microinjuries?

Microinjuries are tiny, controlled injuries to the skin that stimulate the fibroblast cells within the dermis layer of the skin, the layer right beneath the surface. These fibroblast cells are responsible for making connective proteins such as collagen and elastin, vital components for skin rigidity and elasticity. With microinjuries, you can rely on your body’s natural inflammatory response to restore and strengthen your skin to its former vitality.

Benefits of Microneedling

Here are just a few other benefits to explore and consider with microneedling:

Personal Consultation

Our practices are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to help you achieve your skincare goals. During your consultation, one of our surgical assistants will take the time to listen to your specific concerns. As professionals with advanced dermatological experience, they take the time to carefully evaluate your skin condition and discuss your medical history to ensure that microneedling is the right treatment for you. Your specialist will examine the texture, tone, and elasticity of your skin, as well as any specific areas of concern such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, or hyperpigmentation.

To schedule this appointment at Phoenix Skin, please call our office in Phoenix at (602) 222-9111 or our Scottsdale location at (480) 473-9111. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have and assist you in booking your appointment. You may also book your consultation through our online contact form.

Preparation

Preparation is key to getting the most out of your microneedling sessions. In the few days leading up to your appointment, you should stop using any form of exfoliation and/or harsh soaps on your treatment area. It’s vital that you keep your skin calm, healthy, and free of any irritants. Your specialist will inform you on which medications and supplements you should stop taking as well. Usually, we advise patients to stop taking blood thinners or any other medications that can cause more bleeding than expected and a slower rate of healing. About 24 hours before your treatment, work on maintaining adequate hydration with water.

Microneedling Procedure

Prior to the application of the Collagen Pen’s needles, your trained technician will first cleanse the area and apply a topical numbing cream. On average, it takes about 45 minutes for the cream to provide a full numbing effect. Next, the technician will apply the pen directly onto the treatment area and 36 microneedles will then penetrate into the dermis of the skin, the layer just under the surface. In areas of thinner skin, the needles may only penetrate 0.5 mm, while thicker skin may require a 3 mm depth for an optimal outcome.

Your technician will be able to provide a customized experience to keep injury to a minimum while still promoting cosmetic benefits. With multiple treatments of the Collagen Pen, you can expect to see scars fade due to the needles’ ability to rearrange collagen and elastin fibers. In scar tissue, these fibers exhibit a parallel arrangement, but the needles can mechanically modify them to order them into a lattice formation- the organization of healthy, unscarred tissue.

Recovery and Results

After your session, you’ll experience some redness and warmth similar to that of a mild sunburn. Although you’ll be able to go back to work right away, you should avoid touching your face, sun exposure, activities that involve sweating, and the application of makeup.

You may feel mild tenderness, peeling, and tightness for up to 3 days. Some patients find relief from applying an ice pack for about 10 minutes at a time. Over the next few days, you should apply your prescription moisturizer as directed to allow your skin to heal quickly. Finally, applying sunscreen when you’re exposed to the sun will allow your skin to recover and prevent further sun damage in the future.

Some patients begin to see results in as little as 2 weeks. Over the next 3 to 6 months, you’ll notice your results getting significantly better. Most patients require more than one treatment session for optimal results.

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures

PRP

Receiving PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) involves drawing a small amount of your own blood, which is then processed to separate proteins called platelets from the other components. Platelets are rich in growth factors, naturally occurring substances that play a crucial role in the body’s natural healing process. These growth factors stimulate cell growth, collagen production, and tissue regeneration, making PRP an effective treatment for those with acne scars, wrinkles, and loss of skin elasticity. ⁽³⁾ Phoenix Skin offers a treatment package that pairs PRP and microneedling for a more comprehensive anti-aging effect.

Cost of Microneedling in Scottsdale, AZ

The cost of microneedling can vary depending on several factors. At Phoenix Skin, we understand that cost is an important consideration for our patients. That’s why we offer a range of options for various budgets:

Though our $50 personal consultation fee is non-refundable, we can apply this to your treatment plan’s total cost. If you cancel your appointment same-day (less than a 24-hour notice) or do not show up, we will refund the $50.

Call or use our inquiry form to book your first microneedling session at Phoenix Skin.

Phoenix: (602) 222-9111

Scottsdale: (480) 473-9111

FAQ

References

1. Doddaballapur S. Microneedling with dermaroller. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. 2009;2(2):110. doi:https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-2077.58529
2. Pająk J, Szepietowski JC, Nowicka D. Prevention of Ageing—The Role of Micro-Needling in Neck and Cleavage Rejuvenation: A Narrative Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2022;19(15):9055. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159055
3. Wang JV, Schoenberg E, Saedi N, Ibrahim O. Platelet-rich Plasma, Collagen Peptides, and Stem Cells for Cutaneous Rejuvenation. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2020;13(1):44-49. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7028374/