Microneedling is an advanced skin rejuvenation treatment that combines the powerful benefits of microneedling with the regenerative properties of Platelet- Derived Growth Factors (PDGF). PDGF is a naturally occurring protein that plays a crucial role in cell growth, tissue repair, and the formation of new blood vessels. This is an innovative procedure that enhances the skin's natural healing processes, leading to healthier, more vibrant, youthful skin.
Microneedling involves using a device equipped with very fine needles to create microchannels in the skin, triggering the body's natural healing response and stimulation the production of collagen and elastin -- the key components for maintaining firm smooth, and youthful skin. This treatment effectively improves the skin's texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, large pores, and scars.
We offer two types of regenerative microneedling treatments. The first, uses platelet rich fibrin (PRF). This is actually second-generation technology which was anteceded by platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which became popular in the cosmetic setting for its healing properties. Over time as more research was done in the regenerative medicine realm, we found that PRF has a much higher concentration of platelets than PRP. Platelets are cells in the blood that contain large quantities of healing proteins. These proteins initiate and accelerate cellular turnover and collagen synthesis.
PRF that is used in regenerative medicine is autologous, meaning that it is generated from a person’s own body. For this treatment, we will comfortably draw your blood after we have applied your topical anesthetic to your face and neck. We will then spin your blood in our centrifuge and collect the platelet rich fibrin (PRF), which we will apply to your skin as we are performing the microneedling procedure.
The second type of regenerative microneedling treatment is with the use of PDGF+. PDGF+ is a highly concentrated form of this growth factor, designed to maximize its regenerative effects when applied to the skin. In combination with microneedling, PDGF+ accelerates the healing process, enhances collagen production, and improves overall skin quality. This potent, predictable, and proven approach to skin rejuvenation is ideal for individuals looking to enhance their skin's natural healing processes and achieve lasting improvements in skin texture and appearance. PDGF+ does not require a blood draw and provides a more targeted approach with higher growth factor concentrations than PRF.
Why do we offer two forms of regenerative microneedling treatments that seemingly compete with one another?
Not all treatments are created equal, and we understand the need to tailor your treatment to your specific skincare goals, budget, and comfort level. Some patients prefer to use their "own" growth factors versus synthetic PDGF+. Some patients prefer to avoid a blood draw. We have outlined the differences in the treatment offerings below:
Now let's talk microneedling devices. Why did we choose the SkinPen by Crown Aesthetics?
We tested numerous microneedling devices to ensure that the device that we chose to offer was not only effective, but also safe. Medicine continually advances, with new devices coming on the market constantly. This is where SkinPen impressed us. The SkinPen was the first FDA approved microneedling device on the market to treat both acne-scarring and neck wrinkles. The safety profile along with versatility of the SkinPen makes it unique to its competitors. We want to ensure that the device we are using at deep levels of the skin is safe, reliable, and has years of safety data and efficacy through clinical trials.
It is clinically proven to improve the appearance of wrinkles of the neck and improve acne scars in patients ages 22 and older. In as few as three minimally invasive treatments (spaced 30 days apart), we can not only improve your skin health, but we can help you feel comfortable in your skin.
What is the treatment process?
This treatment requires little down time, requiring only 24-72 hours of healing time.
The treatment is comfortable and virtually painless thanks to topical numbing cream that can be administered. Post treatment, your skin will be pink in color and will feel tight, almost like mild sunburn. Depending on the product used (PRF or PDGF+), you may have a red to appearance from the product on your skin which you keep on for at least eight hours; you will want to plan to go home post procedure and schedule your social events accordingly. You may experience mild swelling, redness, dryness, and flaking, but any after-effects will resolve quickly! Pre and post care education will be provided to you at your visit (and in writing to take home) by your aesthetic provider to make sure you get optimal results. Results will be seen after one treatment, however, courses of four to six are advisable for some skin conditions.
The procedure itself takes only 15 minutes after the topical numbing has been applied and allowed to penetrate the skin (10-20 minutes). We have a strict guideline for post-treatment skincare and will recommend products for purchase that will amplify results without interfering with the healing process.
Am I a candidate?
If you are looking to improve any of the following: acne scars, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, skin texture, skin tone, or large pores, we recommend booking a consultation to discuss the SkinPen regenerative microneedling treatment.
