TREATMENT INFORMATION

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is an FDA-approved electronic fractional device that is used to rejuvenate the skin and improve the skin surface by reducing fine lines, expression lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, and acne scars. The concept of Micro Needling is based on the skin’s natural ability to repair itself whenever it encounters physical injury such as cuts, burns and other abrasions. As the Micro Needling device moves across the skin, it makes pinpoint punctures to create very minor micro-“injuries.” In response to the perceived “injury,” a cascade of growth factors is released, which in turn triggers new collagen synthesis. This process has two major benefits - it effectively stimulates collagen formation and provides a clear channel for topical serums to be absorbed through the surface of the skin. By persistently triggering this healing process with a series of Micro Needling treatments, the body keeps repairing the skin incrementally and cumulatively to offer a result similar to fractional laser treatments or chemical peels, but without the side effects and extended downtime. The result is smoother, firmer and younger looking skin. Once the desired result has been achieved, it is important to maintain collagen stimulation by returning for quarterly maintenance treatments. While most commonly used on the face, Micro Needling can also be used to restore and regenerate the skin on the neck, chest, and hands. Micro Needling is safe for all colors of skin and all types of skin.

 

Procedure:

Micro Needling is performed in a safe and precise manner with the use of a sterile, disposable tip that allows effective treatment to hard-to-reach places (e.g. around the eyes, nose, and lips). The basic Micro Needling treatment includes the application of healing gels and serums during the procedure. The entire procedure is normally completed within 30-45 minutes depending on the required treatment and the anatomical site.

New healthy skin appears about 4 weeks after treatment and continues to generate collagen for up to 4-6 months.

Discomfort & Risks:

The sensation of Micro Needling is uncomfortable (described as a stinging sensation), particularly in areas of bony prominence and where the skin is thinner such as the neck and around the eyes. Immediately following the procedure the skin will feel tight, dry, swollen, and sensitive to the touch. It’ll also look and feel sunburned. The sensitivity and redness will diminish significantly within 24 hours. Other common short-term side effects include itching, discomfort, pinpoint bleeding or bruising, scabbing, and darkening of the treated area. Additionally, the skin may look and feel like sandpaper; these effects generally last 2-7 days as the treated skin flakes off and is replaced by new tissue. While adverse reactions are extremely rare, there is a possibility of temporary side effects including but not limited to: infection, scarring, skin and tissue necrosis, herpes simplex outbreak, hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin), and hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin). Darkening or lightening of the skin usually fades within 6 months, but in rare cases, could be permanent. This reaction is more common in patients who are tan or who have darker skin tones. It can result or worsen when treated areas are exposed to the sun too soon following treatment. This risk can be minimized by avoiding sun exposure for 4 weeks before and after treatment and by adhering to pre and post treatment instructions.

 

 

 

 

Treatment recommendation:

 

• For treatment of acne scars and skin rejuvenation usually 5-8 treatments are recommended.
• For management of stretch marks and surgical or keloid scars usually up to 8-10 treatments are required, spaced apart every 5-6 weeks. More time in between treatments is suggested due to the aggressive trauma to the skin, allowing proper recovery time to avoid over-stimulation. If scars/stretch marks are 6 months old or younger, less time in between treatments is okay.

 

PRECAUTIONS:

• Suspicious Lesions- These must be diagnosed by a practitioner prior to beginning treatment.
• Discontinue autoimmune therapies and retinoid products 24 hours prior to beginning treatment.
• Cannot treat over active acne, rosacea, or other inflammatory conditions.
• Cannot treat over open wounds.
• Consider prophylactic treatments for those clients prone to viral breakouts, such as Herpes complex.
• Treatments are not to be administered for at least 6 months after the use of Accutane.

Contraindications:

• Keloid scars.
• Active eczema.
• Psoriasis and other chronic conditions.
• History of actinic or solar keratosis.
• History of herpes simplex infections.
• History of diabetes.
• Presence of raised moles in area to be treated.

 

Absolute Contraindications:

• Scleroderma, collagen or vascular diseases and cardiac abnormalities.
• Blood clotting conditions.
• Active bacterial or fungal infections.
• Immunosuppression.
• Not recommend for women who are pregnant or nursing.

PRE AND POST TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS:

 

 

 

Pre Treatment

You will be asked to discontinue use of Retin A, Retinols, Vitamin A creams and other topic medications for 3-5 days before your micro needling treatment.

 

 

Post Treatment

What to avoid:

• No sunscreen OR makeup for 12 hours following treatment.
• 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 intentional and direct sunlight for 24 hours. No tanning beds.
• Do not go swimming for at least 24 hours post-treatment.
• No exercising or strenuous activity for the first 24 hours post-treatment. Sweating and gym environments are harmful, rife with bacteria, and may cause adverse reactions.
• Avoid alcohol-based toners for 10-14 days as well as excessive sun exposure for 10 days.

 

POST CARE INSTRUCTIONS:

 

• Wash the face a few hours after treatment or before bed time. Use gentle cleanser. Gently massage the face with tepid / cold water (a shower can provide an easier ability to massage the face while washing at the same time), and remove all serum and dried blood, if any.
• Day 1-5: use gentle cleanser and Kiwi Oil* to relieve any discomfort, dryness, itchiness, or tightness you might have. After 12 hours post treatment, use a sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher, at all times. I suggest using EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum 40.
• Day 6-15: use gentle cleanser. Now you may use Hyaluronic acid, Copper Peptides, or Vitamin C serum. You may alternate between serums. Continue using sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher. If a more aggressive treatment was performed they should also be instructed to use a more occlusive balm such as Aquaphor.
• You may beging using Retinol products once again on Day 3. Retinol products are strongly suggested to use for optimal results.

*All products mentioned can be found on my website, under "Microneedling".

STATEMENT OF CONSENT

Please read below carefully and sign:

• The Client understands that the number of micro-needling treatments required varies and that several treatments may be needed.
• The Client understands that there may be some degree of discomfort, (i.e., scratchiness, itchiness, irritation, stinging and hotness.)
• The Client understands that it is normal for the treated area to appear red with slight swelling after the treatment, similar to mild-moderate sunburn, which can last for up to 4 days following treatment. There may
  also be very mild temporary bruising.
• The Client understands that this procedure does not come with any guarantees and understands in order to achieve maximum results, they will need maintenance treatments and the use of daily recommended
  products.
• The Client understands that exposure of a recently treated area to direct sunlight should be avoided and that we advise the use of an SPF of 30 or higher.
• The Client confirms that they have informed BellaBrow by Vera Esthetics of all their medical details relevant to this treatment and will inform BellaBrow by Vera Esthetics of any changes throughout the duration of the treatments should any information change.
• The Client confirms that they have understood all the information given regarding this treatment during the consultation and that any questions that have been presented have been answered satisfactorily.
• The Client agrees to have the treatment performed as outlined above, including the use of a topical anesthetic if required and will follow all prescribed directions regarding post-procedure care and home care.
• The Client understands that there are other treatment options available, including doing no treatment at all.
• The Client acknowledges that they have read and fully understood this document before signing.
• The Client releases BellaBrow by Vera Esthetics of any and all liability.