Microneedling is a relatively new minimally invasive procedure involving superficial and controlled puncturing of the skin by rolling or stamping with miniature fine needles.
It is a simple, cheap, safe, and effective technique. Traditionally used as a collagen induction therapy for facial scars and skin rejuvenation, it is also widely used now as a transdermal delivery system for various therapeutic drugs.
Micropunctures are created using microneedles which produce a controlled skin injury without actually damaging the epidermis.
These micro-injuries lead to a wound healing cascade with the release of various growth factors. The needles also breakdown the old hardened scar strands and allow it to revascularize.
All these effects combine to lay down new collagen material and reduce pigmentation in the local area. Hence, this procedure extrapolates the body’s own physiology of wound healing, and the new collagen deposition results in skin tightening and filling-up of atrophic scars with an overall better aesthetic appeal with minimal to no side effects.
Most widely used instruments to perform such treatments are
Rollers (Dermaroller) has a handle with a drum-shaped cylinder at one end with multiple rows of microneedles studded on the curved surface of the cylinder.
Dermapen is an automated micro-needling device, which makes use of disposable needles and guides, which can adjust needle length. The needles move in a to and fro motion so that the pen can be smoothly glided on the targeted skin. It is very useful to treat narrow areas like nose and lips.
MNRF stands for ‘micro-needling with radiofrequency.’ Insulated needles are used to penetrate the skin and release radiofrequency currents at the level of the dermis without damaging the overlying epidermis. It is an excellent tool to treat scars in dark individuals.