Microneedling

In the past several years microneedling has exploded in popularity, and for good reason. This treatment is a great option for a wide range of cosmetic concerns like enlarged pores, fine lines, acne scars, and more. Microneedling is capable of creating smoother, more youthful-looking skin without much downtime or an extensive recovery process. While at-home products are available, professional microneedling with a dermatologist like Dr. Damstetter using an FDA-cleared device is your best option for a safe and effective procedure.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is sometimes referred to as “collagen induction therapy.” It is a non-surgical procedure that uses a handheld device containing ultra-fine needles. These needles are used to create tiny and controlled punctures in the skin, which in turn triggers the natural healing response leading to new collagen production. Unlike at-home microneedling rollers, which can drag along the skin and cause unnecessary damage, professional microneedling creates more controlled and precise microchannels by “stamping” along the skin. Microneedling is frequently paired with platelet-rich plasma to enhance results. Occasionally, microneedling treatments may include the application of sterile serums or medications, which can more thoroughly penetrate the skin through the tiny microchannels created by the needles. This improves the efficacy of each product for enhanced results.

Liz Damstetter, MD

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Meet the Doctor

Who is a Good Candidate for Microneedling?

Microneedling is useful in treating a wide range of cosmetic concerns and is safe in all skin colors and types. Common dermatologic concerns addressed with microneedling include:

  • Acne scars
  • Irregular tone or pigmentation (melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
  • Enlarged pores
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Scars
  • Stretch marks
  • Sun damage
  • Undereye crepiness and dark circles

Patients who have certain conditions, such as an active skin infection or poorly controlled acne, should wait before undergoing microneedling. It is also unsuitable for those who are prone to keloid scarring. During a consultation, Dr. Damstetter can evaluate your skin health and determine whether microneedling is a good option for you.

Reviews

“I had a recent visit to Dr Damstetter’s clinic and would like to share my experience. I am a Navy vet(corpsman) and usually get seen at the VA but since we don’t have a Derm provider right now, I was fortunately sent out to her clinic to be evaluated. It’s a nice clinic in a nice area and was relatively easy to find. A pleasant Ms. Nancy at the front desk was helpful in completing the check-in process. Easy day. I did not have to wait long and was soon met by Dr. Damstetter’s assistant, who for classified reasons I will refer to as “Agent 8”. I am sure if she gets tired of providing excellent medical care, her slick-ninja skillset could get her a job with the CIA or MI6 maybe. Short story long, Agent 8 brought me back to the patient area, where I was introduced to Dr Damstetter, who was all the things you would want in a doctor: a knowledgeable provider with a great bedside manner. She gave me a thorough exam which did end up showing that I needed a minor procedure. No worries. I felt well taken care of throughout my visit. No one likes to have to see the doctor, but if you have a dermatological concern, this is a good place with good people who did great by me, and I am thankful to have been sent here.”

“Dr. Liz is truly the best dermatologist I’ve ever been to. She is attentive, kind, and genuinely cares about her patients and their overall skin health. I can not recommend her enough!!!”

“Wonderful experience here! The doctor took the time to educate me on a variety of cosmetic options and gave her candid opinion resulting in just the right amount of cosmetic adjustments! Her staff was delightful and attentive! I would highly recommend for general derm needs and cosmetic adjustments.”

“Dr. Damstetter was the first dermatologist I trusted to do my Botox. She is both knowledgeable and professional and did a fantastic job. I will be using her for any and all of my future needs.”

The Microneedling Procedure

Before the microneelding procedure begins, your skin will be thoroughly cleansed and a topical numbing agent will be applied to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. When these steps are complete, the handheld microneedling tool will be used to create micro-injuries in the treatment area by rolling or stamping the needles into the skin. The depth of the injuries is precisely controlled to ensure the intended results. On average, a single microneedling treatment can be completed within 15 minutes. Most patients will have multiple treatment sessions to reach their ideal results, which can be scheduled about one month apart.

Recovery After Microneedling

After your microneedling treatment, some redness, tightness, and sensitivity are normal. The tiny holes in the skin heal within 12-24 hours, though a small amount of residual redness can last for up to three days. Once healing is complete, the skin should immediately appear smoother, more luminous, and more youthful. The skin will continue to improve over the course of several months as collagen production takes place. After microneedling, your skin may be sensitive to the sun and certain skincare products. You should avoid sun exposure as much as possible and follow post-procedure skincare as instructed by Dr. Damstetter.

Schedule an Appointment

To learn more about microneedling and find out if you are a good candidate, schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Damstetter. Call Reserve Dermatology in Glenview, IL or contact us online to set up your first appointment.

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