Many great things, like wisdom and resilience, come with age, but there are also a lot of not-so-great things that sneak up on us with each trip around the sun. Collagen loss is the underlying cause of many common warning signs of skin aging. According to Dr. Jennifer Sawaya of U.S. Dermatology Partners Scottsdale, “Collagen production begins to decline as early as age 30, and it’s important to be proactive when it comes to preventing and reversing this loss. There are many approaches to preventing and reversing collagen loss for improved skin health and appearance. Microneedling is an excellent option for many patients because it jumpstarts collagen production for smooth skin without invasive procedures.” In this blog, Dr. Sawaya answers the burning questions what is microneedling, will it work for me, and what’s the difference between microneedling and laser therapy to reverse collagen loss?
What Is Microneedling and How Does It Work?
Microneedling is a cosmetic dermatology procedure that uses very small needles to create microscopic injuries in the surface of skin. These superficial punctures are precisely positioned in specific depths in the skin. Microneedling is often referred to as collagen induction therapy because it leads to an increased production of collagen and elastin proteins that smooth, firm, and plump skin. Dr. Sawaya says, “Many similar procedures are focused on removing the outer layers of skin to stimulate a collagen boost and reverse the adverse effects of collagen loss. Not only does microneedling accelerate collagen and elastin production, but it also encourages the production of growth factors. This increases circulation, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach skin.”
Microneedling techniques have evolved over the past two decades. Early microneedling procedures involved using a rolling tool with needles along each surface that could be rolled over skin. Today, handheld mechanical devices allow for consistent, precise, and customizable microneedling application. Microneedling is often recommended as an anti-aging collagen treatment, but it may also be utilized to improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and hyperpigmentation.
Can Microneedling Reverse Collagen Loss? Yes—Here’s How
According to Dr. Sawaya “Even a single session can jumpstart your body’s natural collagen-building process, resulting in firmer, smoother skin over time.” To understand why microneedling is impactful in reversing collagen loss, you need to understand why collagen production changes and how that impacts skin’s appearance. The production of collagen proteins peak in the early 20s. Then, collagen production decreases about 1% a year after that. As collagen production decreases, skin is drier, thinner, and has less elasticity. Factors like sun exposure, stress, and hormonal changes can further damage collagen proteins or decrease production.
Microneedling delivers anti-aging results by accelerating collagen and elastin production and stimulating natural healing processes. After a single microneedling session, many patients report seeing improvement in skin’s appearance, tone, and texture. The cumulative results of a series of microneedling sessions are even more impressive. According to Dr. Sawaya, “Microneedling helps stimulate collagen production, often offsetting years of natural collagen loss. According to research published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, microneedling treatments led to significant improvements in collagen density with results continuing to improve over time.”
Microneedling vs. Lasers: What’s the Difference?
Both microneedling and laser treatments are excellent minimally invasive procedures for skin rejuvenation options that increase the production of collagen and elastin proteins, but they work very differently. Both are effective but suited for different skin types, tones, and treatment goals. Understanding the differences between the two is the first step in determining which of these skin rejuvenation procedures is right for you. Below, Dr. Sawaya compares microneedling vs lasers for skin rejuvenation.
Microneedling
Microneedling for aging skin uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries that jumpstart the body’s natural healing processes. Specifically, this procedure stimulates the production of collagen as part of the wound healing response.
- Downtime: 24 to 72 hours
- Side effects: mild redness for the first few days
- Skin types: safe for all skin tones, including darker complexions
- Cost: more budget-friendly than lasers
- Customizable: can be combined with growth factors and other serums as well as radiofrequency for customizable results
Lasers Treatments
Laser energy is used to resurface the skin by utilizing heat at specific depths in the skin. Some lasers work by selectively targeting certain targets such as pigmentation or redness. Resurfacing lasers use heat to stimulate collagen production. This may be done through non-ablative devices that do not remove any skin, or with ablative resurfacing lasers which remove the top layers of skin. Like microneedling, laser treatments use controlled mechanisms for injury, triggering healing processes and collagen production.
- Downtime: varies from a few days to a few weeks based on the type of laser treatment
- Skin Types: some lasers pose a risk of hyperpigmentation and are not safe in darker skin tones
- Cost: can be pricier than microneedling, but may require fewer treatment sessions
- Customizable: there are a wide array of different laser therapy options available that can be recommended to meet individual needs
Next-Gen Microneedling Treatments at U.S. Dermatology Partners
One of the most unique things about microneedling is the versatility of these treatments. Below, Dr. Sawaya reviews the most recommended options available at U.S. Dermatology Partners and some of the top microneedling benefits for healthier, more beautiful skin.
SkinPen®: The Gold Standard
SkinPen is the first FDA-cleared microneedling technology for acne scars and fine lines. It uses disposable needle cartridges attached to a motorized handpiece that allows for precise, consistent depth across application.
Benefits:
- Improves the appearance of acne scars and fine lines
- Stimulates natural collagen without heat or chemicals
- Safe for all skin types
- Minimal downtime (redness typically resolves within 48 hours)
Vivace® RF Microneedling: Radiofrequency-Enhanced Rejuvenation
Vivace RF Microneedling combines traditional microneedling procedures with radiofrequency (RF) technology. The RF waves penetrate deeper into skin’s layers, stimulating collagen and elastin production as well as tightening skin.
Benefits:
- Enhances skin firmness and elasticity
- Treats deeper wrinkles and skin laxity
- RF energy boosts results without increasing downtime
- Customizable for different skin concerns
Micropen EVO: Precision Microneedling for Texture and Tone
Micropen EVO is a unique, high-speed microneedling device that was specifically designed to improve skin tone and texture. It’s especially beneficial for patients who want to reverse signs of aging, sun damage, and even deep lines and wrinkles.
Benefits:
- Improves overall skin tone and texture
- Reduces pore size and skin dullness
- Provides an excellent option to improve or maintain flawless skin
- Gentle yet effective for all skin types
Conclusion: A Powerful Way to Reclaim Firm, Youthful Skin
A powerful approach to restoring lost collagen, microneedling revitalizes skin and promotes a more youthful appearance. Unlike some cosmetic dermatology treatments, microneedling works within the body’s healing processes for long-term skin rejuvenation. According to Dr. Sawaya, “Microneedling services can significantly improve collagen levels with visible skin rejuvenation after just one session, especially when part of a series. Whether you’re just beginning to notice fine lines or you’re looking to reverse years of collagen loss, microneedling can help you take control of your skin’s aging process.”
Learn More About Microneedling During a Cosmetic Dermatology Consultation
Ready to explore what microneedling can do for your skin? Schedule a cosmetic dermatology consultation with an experienced dermatologist at U.S. Dermatology Partners by filling out our scheduling request form online. Our local dermatology team will assess your skin, discuss goals, and help you determine the most effective treatment plan.
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