Are you new to the world of dermal therapy skin treatments and confused about which treatment to have and what it is for? Heard about skin needling or Dermapen and wanting to know more? Had microdermabrasion but unsure how it works? Or uncertain what any of these terms actually mean? Well, read on…
What is the difference between Skin needling and Microdermabrasion?
To answer this question first we need to explain what both these treatments are:
Skin Needling:
Skin needling is also called collagen induction therapy (CIT). Skin needling is a minimally invasive non-surgical and non-ablative procedure for facial rejuvenation. It involves the use of a multiple needle device, with an automatic oscillating function that gently pierces the skin and stimulates natural collagen reproduction, whilst creating millions of fine micro-channels. These channels can carry up to 80% more topical nutrients, encouraging transdermal delivery of nutrients deeper into the skin, to feed cells in the dermis and basal layer of the epidermis. In addition, new capillaries are formed. This neovascularisation and neocollagenesis following treatment leads to a reduction in wrinkles, improves skin texture and promotes scar or stretch mark reduction.
This procedure is performed by qualified dermal clinicians using medical grade needles that can be adjusted in depth, depending on the type and intensity of treatment that is needed. Here at Geelong Veins, Skin and Laser we use the medical grade “Dermapen” for our skin needling procedures.
Microdermabrasion:
Microdermabrasion is a skin rejuvenation treatment that provides a gentle yet effective mechanical peeling of the skin. The procedure is performed using a handpiece that emits very small (micro) diamond shaped crystals onto the skin’s surface to slough off dead surface cells and initiates cellular turnover at the epidermal and dermal levels. This improves skin elasticity, texture, colour and overall appearance.
There are many factors that influence cellular regeneration and dermal growth. The skins natural response to excessive sunlight is to become thicker to protect sub-layers of the skin. The result is slower shedding producing thick dry and rough skin. Acne sufferers retain their skin cells causing further congestion and thickening of the top layer (stratum corneum). Other factors such as age, genetics, hormonal balance, lack of vitamins and minerals all influence epidermal cellular turnover and reproduction of new, healthy cells.
So, in summary, how are these treatments different?
Skin needling is a treatment involving puncturing the skin with very fine needles, so goes deeper within the skin. Microdermabrasion is a process where the surface layer of dead skin cells is removed with abrasive crystals, so this is more superficial (on the surface). Skin needling will help the skin produce more collagen and blood flow within the skin layers. Microdermabrasion will remove dull, dead skin cells and unblock congestion on the surface.
Some examples of who would suit each treatment:
Case study 1- Mrs SP is a 45yo female patient who has fine lines and wrinkles and is noticing the early signs of ageing.
Recommended treatment= Skin Needling, one treatment every four weeks
Case study 2- Miss LR is a 28yo female patient who feels over winter her skin is looking dull and dry, with patchy, poor complexion.
Recommended treatment= Microdermabrasion
Case study 4- Mr GD 32yo male patient who suffers from acne scarring as a result of cystic acne as a teenager.
Recommended treatment= Skin Needling
Can you have both skin needling and microdermabrasion?
If your skin would benefit from both treatments, our dermal clinicians can develop a plan over time that combines these two modalities. You should not have them both on the same treatment day, as this will cause too much inflammation of the skin.
Book in for a free skin analysis consultation with one of our dermal therapists to discuss your individual skin needs.