It seems to be all the hype right now. Celebrities around the globe like Kim Kardashian and the Real Housewives of Orange County have been raving about radiofrequency microneedling. But there are a few things you need to know before you book your treatment.

1. NOT ALL MICRONEEDLING DEVICES ARE THE SAME

Microneedling technology has evolved considerably over the last few years. While many clinics are still using dermabrasion, roller and pen devices, the latest in microneedling technology, called VivaceTM needling, combines radiofrequency with physical skin needling. This is what the celebs have been talking about.

2. A SERIES OF 3 OR MORE TREATMENTS WILL USUALLY BE NEEDED

Each treatment will gradually induce changes in collagen production and elasticity. But after one treatment, all your problems won’t be solved. Generally, about three treatments are needed but for acne scarring about 4-5 treatments will be needed to gently soften the appearance of the scars. Many patients who have VivaceTM microneedling as an anti-aging and skin rejuvenation treatment the  have a few treatments per year as maintenance.

Chromaderm-Microneedling-Vivace-Melbourne
Radiofrequency microneedling with vivacetm in asian skin
3. BEWARE OF SCARRING

Some devices can cause tearing and micro-scars on the skin. Roller and pen devices that were used in the past rely on the human hand moving around during treatment which means the treatment is prone to error and error can result in burning, stinging and micro-tears in the skin. The robotically controlled movement of the needles in the VivaceTM technology on the other hand, provides precise treatments without tearing the skin.

4. IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE PAINFUL

At Chroma Dermatology, a numbing cream is applied about 30 minutes before the treatment which means there is minimal to no discomfort at all. When combined with no-down time, the treatment becomes a perfect one for people who want to avoid invasive skin rejuvenation treatments. 

5. BEWARE OF PIGMENT

Many people and clinics make claims that microneedling can remove pigment. As specialists in pigmentation, our experience at Chroma Dermatology shows that this treatment alone will not remove pigment. It can however, be worked into a treatment plan for certain causes of pigmentation when the condition is not flaring, at certain times of the year and in selected skin types. When used incorrectly, microneedling can actually make pigmentation worse!

Ingredients for successful treatment:

  • Get the correct diagnosis first: trust the experts. Dermatologists are your go-to for getting the right diagnosis and thinking about what treatment plan best suits you from a medical and cosmetic perspective. 
  • Choose a reputable clinic with a highly qualified operator: look for clinics that are led by dermatologists with qualification letters “FACD” beside their names is a good start
  • Make sure you get good pre- and post-treatment advice: following the post-procedure instructions in particular, are critical if the best results are going to be seen with this technology
  • If you have skin of colour, make sure the type of needles you need for your skin type are available and used for each treatment
  • Make sure your expectations are realistic and that you discuss this with your dermatologist first
Want do learn more about microneedling and other cosmetic treatments available at Chroma Dermatology? Read more here

The information contained in this blog post is intended as a guide only and should not substitute seeking medical attention. Please see your healthcare provider for more information on suitability of products, treatments or procedures.