According to the Cleveland Clinic:

“Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure using thin needles. The procedure can help reduce the appearance of skin concerns such as acne scars, stretch marks or wrinkles. Most people get microneedling for cosmetic purposes, but it can also help with some medical conditions.“

Source: “Microneedling: What It Is, Uses, Benefits and Results.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23113-microneedling. 20221205

Microneedling Procedure

During the MicroNeedling procedure at Ocean Beach Acupuncture in San Diego, small needles cause superficial damage to the skin, stimulating skin cell regeneration. Microneedling creates over 500,000 channels within the epidermis through which a selection of topical serums will be applied with immediate delivery to the deeper layers of your skin. As the skin heals, new collagen forms, making the skin thicken and tighten. Traditional facials will have you looking great for a few days, but microneedling lasts much longer.

The ultimate goal of this procedure is to not only treat the pre-existing wrinkles and scars but to penetrate below the surface before new wrinkles form. Regular microneedling treatments several times per year will dramatically improve not only the appearance of your skin but more importantly, the overall health of your skin.

Our professional Acupuncturist only uses state-of-the-art equipment in our microneedling procedures. AcoMicro Device has been clinically shown to produce improvements in the appearance of facial scars and wrinkles among all skin types. At Ocean Beach Acupuncture in San Diego, we guarantee the utmost safety and care to our patients. Our aim is for you to feel amazing in your skin.

Microneeding Treatment Instructions

Before Treatment

• If you have or are currently suffering from cold sores, let your doctor know. A prescription is needed in order to get rid of any infection and eliminate the chance of developing sores post-treatment.
• Avoid blood thinning and anti-inflammatory medication for 3 days prior to treatment. They increase the chance of bruising and swelling after treatments. Medications to avoid include Aspirin, Advil, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Fish Oil Supplements, Vitamin E, and other NSAIDs.
• Don’t shave the day of your appointment to avoid skin irritation.
• We recommend not waxing, using depilatory creams or electrolysis to the treatment area for 5-7 days prior.
• Avoid laser procedures, unprotected sun exposure and sunburn for 10-14 days prior to your appointment.

After Treatment

• Do not wash your face until the following morning. After 48 to 72 hours following treatment, you can return to a regular skincare regimen.
• Do not use sunscreen for 12 hours following treatment. After that, wear SPF 30 or above at all times.
• Stay away from skin creams like retinol for a few days, and if you are sent home with any growth serum, continue to apply it before bed until it’s gone.
• No exercising or strenuous activity for the first 24 hours post-treatment. Sweating and gym environments are harmful, rich with bacteria, and may cause adverse reactions.
• For at least 2 hours post-treatment, do not use any Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acid, retinol (Vitamin A), Vitamin C (in a low pH formula) or anything perceived as ‘active’ skincare.
• Avoid any intentional or direct sun exposure or heat for a week.
• Do not go swimming for at least 24 hours post-treatment.
• Avoid wearing makeup for the first 24 hours
• Immediately following the procedure the skin will feel tight, dry, swollen, and sensitive to the touch.
• Best results are seen if done in a series of 4 treatments, spaced 4 -6 weeks apart and then every 6 months for maintenance.

How Does Microneedling Work

We use sterile micro-needles to create small holes in your epidermis leading to the release of serum growth factors. These stimulate the breakdown of aged fibrous collagen and stimulate brand-new collagen and elastin development.

After a treatment your body will begin to regenerate and repair the skin naturally, working below the surface in the dermis. This does take time as new collagen is formed, new skin cells are produced and the supply of blood is enhanced. Normally it takes up to 6 weeks before noticeable indicators of regeneration and restoration are seen. A minimum of four treatments spaced four to six weeks apart is
recommended for the best results. The procedure will continue over the next months, offering you a long and natural lasting enhancement.

Who Should Use Microneedling?

Anyone looking for smoother skin, smaller pores, reduced stretch marks and scars, or improved acne symptoms should consider microneedling. Because it doesn’t use heat, it works well for all skin tones and types.

Does Microneedling Hurt?

Most people do not need numbing cream, but if you do -Numbing cream is applied before the procedure, but you may experience mild discomfort. More sensitive areas include the forehead and upper lip area. The feeling is often described as lightly rubbing sandpaper across the face and is usually described by our patients as slightly uncomfortable but not painful.

What are the results of a Microneedling Treatment?

• Skin tightening, rejuvenation, and lifting
• Improves the overall look of pimples, stretch marks, and surgical scars.
• Minimizes pore size
• Improves wrinkles and lines on the face and upper part of the torso (neck, shoulders, back, and chest)
• Refines sun-damaged skin
• Improves thinning hair