Micro-Needling in Sacramento, CA - Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

What Is Micro-Needling?

Micro-Needling utilizes tiny needles to create hundreds of controlled micro-injuries to the skin.  The skin’s natural repair process then stimulates production of new collagen and elastin, which results in the reduction of wrinkles and scars and improves skin texture.  Micro-Needling also creates superficial micro-channels which allow topical serums to be absorbed more effectively into the skin.

What Are The Benefits Of Micro-Needling?

Micro-Needling treatments reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, tone and texture.  Patients notice a fresher appearance or glow to the skin from Micro-Needling.

How Is Micro-Needling Done?

A sterile cartridge containing needles is attached to the MicroPen.  I will apply a thin layer of a topical gel to your skin and select the appropriate pen setting based on your unique needs.  Next, in a single motion, the pen will be gently pressed against the skin while simultaneously gliding in one direction until the entire treatment area has been covered.  The procedure takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on the area to be treated.

What Does Micro-Needling Feel Like?

The feeling associated with micro-needling is similar to light sandpaper being moved across the skin.  While some areas are more sensitive than others, the speed of the reciprocating tip reduces discomfort while the applied hydrating gel also makes the treatment more tolerable.  A topical numbing cream can be applied to further reduce discomfort.

What Is The Downtime for Micro-Needling?

Immediately after the treatment you will notice a bright redness to the skin.  The total healing time depends on the setting used and the number of overlapping passes your provider performs. On average, clients are red for up to 2 to 4 days. Many patients heal completely in as little as 24 hours.

When Will I See Results From Micro-Needling?

Patients notice an immediate “glow” to their skin. Visible changes to the skin develop over the course of several days and weeks. Results can continue to improve up to 6 months.

How Many Micro-Needling Treatments Will I Need?

It is recommended for most patients to receive a series of 2-3 treatments spaced about 4-6 weeks apart.  For patients with deep wrinkles, advanced photo-aging, stretch marks or acne scars, it is recommended to receive 6-8 sessions at 4-week intervals. However, you do not need to “take a break” from micro needling. It can be done every 4-6 weeks. I recommend alternating treatments after your initial 6-8 session cycle.

How Is Micro-Needling Different From Lasers?

No heat also equals less downtime! Most microneedling patients are red for 24 hours or less. That advantage means you can get the procedure performed on a Friday and be back to normal for work on Monday.

Dermaplaning in Sacramento, CA - Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

What Is Dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is a treatment that uses a medical scalpel to gently exfoliate the outer layer of dead skin cells and remove fine facial hair commonly known as “peach fuzz”, technically called “vellus” hair. It can be used as an alternative to laser treatments and microdermabrasion or along with them for an enhanced result. This procedure will give your skin a more radiant appearance. Following the treatment, makeup application is smoother and other skincare products are able to penetrate deeper, in turn making them more effective.

Am I A Good Candidate?

The ideal candidate for Dermaplaning has aging, dry, rough, or uneven skin tone. Dermaplaning can also help reduce the appearance of shallow acne scars, fine lines and superficial hyperpigmentation. Dermaplaning is recommended for all skin types except those with active breakout and men with heavy facial hair. If you have active acne there are other treatments available that would be more beneficial, and it is necessary to wait until breakouts are healed before trying this treatment. As always, also discuss any allergies or skin sensitivities before starting a treatment. This is a great treatment if you are pregnant or nursing and want exfoliation without the use of chemicals. 

Is Dermaplaning Safe?

This treatment is extremely safe when performed by a properly trained skincare professional. There is no more risk to the skin than when you shave your legs. There is also no downtime associated with this procedure.

Does It Hurt? Will It Cause Cuts?

Dermaplaning is effective by performing a gentle scraping motion across the skin’s surface. With hair removal such as waxing and threading, most people have the idea that all hair removal is painful, but Dermaplaning is entirely painless. There are risks of cuts on the skin, however they are small and very minor as the pressure used for Dermaplaning cannot cause a deep cut. These nicks and scrapes heal within 24-48 hours.

Will Facial Hair Grow Back Thicker Or Darker?

No. There are different types of hair that grow on the body; vellus hair and terminal hair. Vellus hair is found on most areas of the body except palms, soles, lips and genital areas, whereas terminal hairs are found on the scalp, underarms and pubic region. The soft and fine vellus hair grows back at the same rate and texture.

What Is The Benefit Of Adding A Chemical Peel With Dermaplaning?

Hyperkeratosis is a buildup of dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. By removing this initial layer, a chemical peel is able to penetrate deeper into the dermis resulting in a more effective treatment. The conjunction of dermaplaning and a chemical peel leaves the skin refreshed and rejuvenated. Together they promote new skin growth and target problems such as aging, sun spots and environmental damage.

How Long Is The Treatment? How Often Can I Have It Done?

Dermaplaning in Sacramento, California takes anywhere between 30-45 minutes and can be performed every 3-4 weeks. The treatment itself removes approximately 21 days worth of dead skin so it is important to let your skin rejuvenate before your next appointment.

What Is The Difference Between Dermaplaning And Microdermabrasion?

Both options are a form of physical exfoliation. Dermaplaning removes vellus hair (peach fuzz) and dead skin cells from the skin, microdermabrasion also exfoliates the surface of the skin, but not as thoroughly or deeply as dermaplaning does.

How Is Dermaplaning Different From A Peel?

Dermaplaning is a manual exfoliation process that does not use acids or enzymes to remove dead skin cells. All of the exfoliation is achieved during your treatment and you will not peel or visibly shed skin after your service, while Peels can result in dramatic peeling in the days following a service. Dermaplaning provides a good alternative to Peels for those who desire professional grade exfoliation without the potential social downtime. 

What Should I Expect During My Service?

Dermaplaning is a painless treatment that includes deep cleansing and professional exfoliation in the form of dermaplaning. It is then followed by a restorative treatment and finished with skin care suited to your unique skin. Dermaplaning has a similar sensation close to a shave, which removes vellus hair and dead skin cells simultaneously. 

What Should I Expect After My Service?

You’ll immediately look more radiant with a more even skin tone and texture. While the main objective of this treatment is exfoliation, the immediate removal of peach fuzz is an added benefit which renders the skin exceptionally smooth and soft.  Skin care products are better able to penetrate the skin following a dermaplaning service which allows them to work more efficiently. Your cosmetics will also go on smoother. After the treatment, your skin will be highly sensitive to sun exposure and may look pink, so be sure to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. 

How Should I Care For My Skin After Dermaplaning?

After a Dermaplaning treatment your skin needs time to heal and restore. Treat the skin gently, using only hands to cleanse for at least 2 days and wearing sunscreen every day.