Microneedling is a skin treatment procedure that works for the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines, or if you have cystic acne, microneedling is an effective acne scar removal treatment. Once you have discussed with your dermatologist and you both have concluded that this is the best treatment for you, you should get ready for the treatment. These three tips highlighted below can help you get ready and make the treatment successful.
- Pre-treatment tips.
First, you need to know exactly which part you need to treat with microneedling. Your dermatologist has to make sure there are no contraindications, and you also have to come out straight with your medical history and conditions. If you tend to get infections as a result of herpes simplex, you will need to first undergo prophylaxis therapy. If you recently took isotretinoin, you have to wait for six months before you can go for microneedling treatment for your acne scar removal. Isotretinoin has a history of interfering with healing thereby causing further scarring.
48 hours before the microneedling procedure, you must avoid using any self-tanning sprays or lotions. A day to the treatment, you should also stop using any product that contains retinol or vitamin A. It is vital that you stay away from the sun to avoid sunburn because the treatment becomes less effective if your skin is already sunburned.
- Tips for during the treatment
Find out what the procedure is like and let your dermatologist know what exactly you are expecting from the procedure. Take pictures before the treatment and make sure you are not wearing any makeup to make the cleaning process of your face easier. Ask for a numbing cream so that you will feel comfortable during the treatment. The physician in charge of the treatment will recommend one suitable for you. Remove the numbing cream and apply an antiseptic solution.
- After the treatment
After your treatment, pat down the treated area and apply an anti-inflammation product. You can get prescriptions from your physician, and the standard procedure is that you reapply the anti-inflammation product within 24 hours of first use after the procedure. After the first or second day, the skin may look like you suffered a sunburn; and it may be a little bit red or inflamed.
Do not use any product different from the one recommended by your physician. Your doctor knows what product works best for you and some products may clog the channels created from the microneedling. You have to also avoid the sun and any exercise that can make you sweat excessively. You need to stay away from any activity that will increase blood flow to your skin surface to prevent irritation.
After your first micro-needling session, your next session for your cystic acne treatment should be in a month. Therefore, take “photos” of the first session’s results so you can know if the treatment is working for you by comparing with your photos during and after the process.
Always remember, regardless of any procedure, you should take note of the pre-treatment care and steps to take before you go for the treatment to make sure that you have a smooth process.