Everything to Know About Microneedling, According to Three Top Doctors

From its skin-improving effects to its wrinkle-reducing properties, in-office microneedling continues to top our list of effective skin-care treatments. While there are cons to all treatments—doctors say that a considerable con for microneedling is the amount of treatments required for noticeable results—Birmingham, AL dermatologist Corey Hartman, MD explains that the biggest pro of microneedling is its results. “This particular service has been proven safe and effective for all skin types when administered correctly and with a device that has been cleared by the FDA,” he says.

“Each microneedling treatment takes about one hour including numbing,” says Grand Rapids, MI plastic surgeon Bradley Bengtson, MD. “Ideally, patients arrive with no makeup on and we apply the numbing cream to their face for about 25 to 30 minutes. Then, we cleanse and dry the face and use a hyaluronic glide, Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar ($195) or brightening creams in melasmic areas before beginning their treatment. Post-treatment, we send patients home with a soothing face mask that they can put in the refrigerator and utilize to cool down their skin.”

Before you leave the office, there are a few important post-procedure tips to keep in your back pocket. As the treatment clears out dead skin and unleashes a fresh complexion, Dr. Bengtson recommends tinted sunscreen. “After being red and pink for a day or two, patients should routinely apply sunscreen like Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36 ($55) to cover any residual redness.” Dr. Hartman adds that a broad-spectrum physical sunscreen that contains zinc dioxide or titanium dioxide is great for protecting the skin from UV light while it’s at its most vulnerable.