Adapted from Spafinder.

Microneedling. You wouldn’t think a beauty treatment that uses tiny needles to prick the skin at surface level would be one of our favourites. But we recently decided to go beyond the usual peels and HydraFacial and opt for microneedling for a much-needed collagen boost, and we’re hooked.

The Microneedling Experience

Just as you would with a typical facial treatment, you’ll dress in a spa robe and settle back on a treatment bed at your medical spa. Get comfortable as your esthetician cleanses your skin and applies a topical anesthetic. After a bit of waiting time to allow the numbing cream to take full effect, the treatment begins.

Once the numbing cream sets in, the process itself is a quick 15-minute treatment. The esthetician will tap your skin with hyaluronic acid, then sweep a vibrating, thick, wand-like device evenly across you face—hairline, forehead, cheeks, chin, above the upper lip and jawline. Tiny needles attached to the wand’s head punch the skin’s surface, creating tiny “wounds” or openings that allow the acid to deeply absorb.

So does microneedling hurt? It does a bit. It’s not horrendous, but it is slightly uncomfortable. You may catch yourself flinching a few times but the results are worth it. A hyaluronic serum and hydrating cream will be applied to complete the service.

Following the Treatment

Post-treatment, your skin will feel slightly “raw” and tight, similar to the feel of a light sunburn. You may also notice a bit of pinpoint bleeding that you can gently dab away with soft gauze or tissue (no irritating, abrasive fabric like paper towels!).

Over the following few days your face will become redder and flakier. Applying hyaluronic acid and a gentle moisturizer regularly will soothe your skin, and the soft, smooth results will last for weeks.

Good to Know

  • Microneedling works best in a series, typically three. Wait a full skin cycle between appointments (about five weeks).
  • Avoid highly potent topical products like retinol or acids a few days prior to and after your treatment.
  • Wear sunscreen (always), but especially post-treatment. Also opt for mild, gentle cleansers and hyaluronic acid after microneedling.
  • Wearing a cloth headband to bed the night of your service protects your face pillow from any pinpoint bleeding.

Book your microneedling service with a WaySpa partner