Microneedling with a Doctor of Acupuncture 

Written By The Way

What is Microneedling

Microneedling, aka collagen induction therapy, is the insertion of very fine, short needles into the skin for the purpose of rejuvenation. This is a modern skincare treatment based on the ancient technique of Plum Blossom Needling in TCM. 

Microneedling creates channels in the skin, stimulating the skin's own healing mechanisms in response to a controlled micro trauma in the tissue. This repair process stimulates the production of collagen, elastin and new skin cells, in turn creating tighter and smoother skin. 

Benefits of Microneedling

  • Skin rejuvenation

  • Collagen production 

  • Fine lines

  • Deep wrinkles 

  • Skin tightening

  • Lifting for face, neck and jaw

  • Acne scar treatment 

  • Deep scars and stretch marks

  • Age and sun spots

  • Periorbital wrinkles and under eye bags

  • Enlarged pores

  • Melasma 

  • Hyperpigmentation

  • Rosacea 

  • Hair loss

Why see an Acupuncturist for Microneedling

As a Doctor of Acupuncture, I view and understand the skin holistically through the intrinsic connections to the body as a whole system. Symptoms that manifest in the skin often arise from deeper layers of disharmony. In these sessions, we will not only address the symptoms in your skin that brought you here (the “Branch”), but also the imbalance in your body that's driving the pattern (the “Root”). In holistic skincare, we take the extra steps to make lasting changes that prevent symptoms from reoccurring. Each cosmetic appointment (microneedling, nanoneedling and cosmetic acupuncture) include a full body acupuncture treatment to aid the treatment goals. I recommend starting your skin health journey with an Initial Acupuncture Consultation, to create a holistic treatment plan which may include dietary therapy, herbal supplements, and lifestyle modifications for best results.  

Acupuncturists have a specialized focus in needling, and are part of a highly regulated medical profession, adhering to clean needle technique and safety standards. Receiving microneedling from an Acupuncturist ensures that treatment risks are mitigated, while achieving optimal results through a systemic approach. A portion of each appointment is eligible for coverage under your acupuncture health insurance benefits. 

Microneedling treatment frequecy

Sessions are recommended 1 time every 4 weeks (once a month) for a total of 4-6 treatments for best results

Microneedling treatments are 90 minutes long, and include: 

  • Holistic TCM Assessment

  • Microneedling with AcuMicro Pen 

  • Apple Stem Cells + Customized TCM Topical Serums 

  • Celluma LED Light Therapy 

  • Body Acupuncture

  • Investment: $350

A portion of these treatments are billable under your acupuncture benefits 

Microneedling Aftercare

  • The skin will look red for 8-12 hours, aloe vera can help reduce redness

  • Avoid exercise for the day, sweat can irritate the face 

  • Stay out of the sun on the day of treatment

  • Wear mineral sunscreen daily for 1 week after treatment, as the skin will be more susceptible to burning 

  • Apply hyaluronic acid multiple times on the day of treatment, whenever the skin feels dry, and before bed 

  • Avoid using oil based products day of treatment, which repel water and block the micro channels we just created during treatment. Focus on using the water based products provided which have the highest rate of absorption into the skin

  • Skin has highest rate of absorption 1 week post microneedling, use hyaluronic acid or glycerin based serums during this window for best results 

  • Do not use facial soap or cleanser before bed on day of treatment, use only warm water to wash the face if needed

  • Can get back to normal facial routine tomorrow, with recommended modifications based on clinical discussion 

Contraindications to Microneedling

  • Severe active acne, needling can not be performed over active acne due to risk of bacteria spread and inflammation, but can be performed on intact skin between breakout zones to help promote acne healing and regeneration in mild to moderate acne

  • Pregnancy 

  • Local infections like warts

  • Moderate to severe chronic skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis 

  • Anticoagulant medications

  • Undergoing chemotherapy or radiation 

  • Wait at least 1 month before or after adjunct cosmetic procedures to get microneedling

The Way
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