Microneedling and Vampire Facial
Conveniently located to serve Jacksonville, FL
Collagen is an essential protein found in your body. It gives structure to the bones, muscles, skin, and other connective tissues. As you start to age, the body decreases its production of collagen which can cause a number of aesthetic issues to form. Age spots, acne scars, wrinkles, fine lines, and blemishes start to appear more distinctly. One of the best ways to reduce the appearance of these signs of aging is micro-needling treatment.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy, is a minimally invasive procedure to treat various skin problems. It is a new way to achieve skin rejuvenation, tightening, improve the appearance of acne scars, and help minimize the signs of aging.
Microneedling involves using a tool called a derma-pen or derma roller that causes controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the body’s natural wound healing process. The micro-injuries are caused by tiny needles at the end of derma-pen that make small needle pricks in the top skin layers and trigger the release of cytokines and growth factors that lead to remodeling of collagen and elastin. There are many different types of micro-needling pens and derma rollers used by experts.
There are three phases to the wound repair process:
- Phase I: Inflammation. Piercing the skin triggers your immune system to disinfect the wounds, remove debris, increase blood flow and begin to create new tissue.
- Phase II: Proliferation. The wound is re-built with new granulation cells, as well as a temporary (type III) collagen and elastin, which are part of the extracellular matrix. Additionally, a new network of blood vessels develops.
- Phase III: Remodeling. The wound has been replaced with new dermal tissues and blood vessels. The type III collagen in the newly formed tissue is replaced with stronger type I collagen, which can contract to create a tightening or “shrink wrap” effect on the skin.
Microneedling is not exclusive to the face. It can be done on any area of the skin that needs repaired. It addresses many other skin-related problems like wrinkles, fine lines, scars and more. It is an ideal treatment for skin problems such as stretch marks, pigmentation, loose skin and rosacea.
Vampire Facial
Mironeedling creates incredibly small holes on the surface of the skin known as microchannels that allow serums and other products penetrate deeper into the skin, it is used to deposit medication, such as Vitamin C, or topical tretinoin into the skin to rejuvenate it. To super charge collagen and elastin growth, platelet rich plasma (PRP) is injected into your skin. PRP is a substance made from your own blood that contains a number of essential growth factors and nutrients. This treatment is referred to as a Vampire Facial.
Before
After
Does Microneedling Hurt?
The procedure uses a device called a derma-pen or derma-roller to prick tiny holes into your skin that stimulate collagen growth. Microneedling does cause mild pain and discomfort, and hence a topical numbing cream is applied prior to treatment. This allows for a comfortable experience. Generally patients feel a slight vibration during the procedure.
How Many Microneedling Treatments are needed?
Microneedling usually takes 30 minutes up to an hour, depending on the area size. Microneedling usually takes 30 minutes up to an hour, depending on the area size. You will start to see improvement in your skin after the first session. A series of three treatments are needed about four to six weeks apart. Some areas may need more such as acne scars, stretch marks, etc.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Microneedling with or without PRP is an effective treatment for all skin types. It can be used to address several different skin problems. Good candidates for microneedling should:
- Be in generally good health
- Not have had any skin rejuvenation procedures done recently
- Have realistic expectations
What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (Vampire Facial)?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is drawing a small amount of blood, which is then centrifuged to separate your plasma. Plasma contains high concentration of platelets, growth factors and stem cells. These platelets help your tissue grow and heal new cells. PRP helps to:
- Increase collagen production
- Improve moisture retention
- Reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
- Tighten the skin and make it firmer
- Enhance the skin tone and texture
Is There Downtime after Microneedling with or without PRP?
The total healing time depends on each individual. Most patients have some slight swelling and redness/pinkness (like a mild to moderate sunburn) for two to four days following the microneedling procedure. Some people may see their skin return to normal in about 24 hours. A post-treatment kit will help speed your recovery.
When Will I See Results?
Most people start to notice results after one week, while skin continues to improve. Full results can be seen up to six months.