Microneedling

Microneedling is a dermatological procedure in which the skin is punctured in a controlled way with very fine needles, creating tiny channels at the surface. These micro-injuries stimulate the skin's natural repair processes, including the production of collagen and elastin, which can gradually improve the texture and appearance of the complexion.

The procedure can be performed on its own or combined with PRP, platelet-rich plasma obtained from the patient's own blood. At Detalii Med in Baia Mare, microneedling is carried out by Dr Greta Jurj and Dr Alina Perța on the face, neck, décolletage and hands.

Microneedling is usually suitable for people who wish to improve:

• uneven skin texture;
• enlarged pores;
• acne scars;
• a tired, dull-looking complexion;
• skin quality on the neck, décolletage or hands.

The procedure is not recommended in the presence of active inflamed acne, skin infections, active cold sores or skin conditions in a flare-up, during pregnancy, or for people prone to keloid scarring. At the consultation the doctor also discusses other situations, such as treatments that increase skin sensitivity or the risk of bleeding.

Microneedling can make the skin smoother and more even, soften the appearance of pores and gradually improve acne scars. Many patients notice a brighter, more rested complexion after a course of sessions.

The procedure does not replace a facelift and does not correct sagging skin or deep wrinkles. Scars do not disappear completely but usually become less visible. Results appear gradually and depend on skin type, age, scar depth and the number of sessions. For some concerns the doctor may recommend combining it with other treatments.

At the consultation, the dermatologist examines the skin, the type and depth of any scars, the pores, and any marks or signs of inflammation. Medical history, dermatological treatments used, allergies, a tendency to cold sores and sun exposure are discussed.

Based on this assessment, the doctor decides whether microneedling is suitable, whether combining it with PRP would be helpful, which areas to treat and roughly how many sessions would be needed. The patient also receives advice on preparing the skin, such as temporarily stopping certain irritating products.

A session usually lasts between 45 and 90 minutes, including preparation time. The skin is cleaned and disinfected. The doctor works on the agreed area, adjusting the needle depth according to the region and the concern being treated.

If PRP is used, a small amount of blood is taken at the start of the session and processed by centrifugation to obtain platelet-rich plasma, which is applied to the skin during the procedure. At the end the skin is soothed with a suitable product. A course of sessions a few weeks apart is usually recommended.

Before the procedure an anaesthetic cream is usually applied to the area for several tens of minutes. Patients typically describe the sensation as a light prickling or vibration that is well tolerated.

After the session the skin is red and slightly sensitive, as after sun exposure. The redness usually fades within one to three days. Mild swelling, dryness or fine flaking may appear over the following days.

Usual recommendations:

• avoid make-up for the first 24 hours;
• use gentle products without irritating ingredients for a few days;
• apply sun protection diligently and avoid direct sun exposure;
• avoid saunas, swimming pools and strenuous exercise for the first few days.

Microneedling is generally well tolerated but may have unwanted effects:

• temporary redness, swelling and sensitivity;
• small pinpoint bleeding or bruises;
• dryness and flaking;
• reactivation of cold sores in people who are prone to them;
• rarely, infection or irritation;
• rarely, pigmented marks, especially after sun exposure.

Following the aftercare advice reduces the risk of complications. Any unusual reaction should be reported to the doctor.

After the first few days the skin may look brighter, but the effects on texture and scars appear gradually as the skin renews itself. Results are usually assessed a few weeks after the course of sessions has been completed.

The number of sessions varies according to the concern and is agreed at the consultation. How long the effect lasts differs from person to person, and some patients choose maintenance sessions at intervals recommended by the doctor.

Microneedling, on its own or combined with PRP, can improve skin texture, pores, acne scars and a tired complexion, with gradual results. Several sessions are usually needed, along with careful skin care in between. At Detalii Med, the dermatologist decides at the consultation whether the procedure is suitable and what the treatment plan looks like.