Microneedling is all the rage, but have you ever stopped to question WHY this treatment is being pushed so hard EVERYWHERE you turn?
Today, I am spilling the tea from a cosmetic dermatologist's perspective on the TRUTH about microneedling. Beware... the truth isn't always pretty and not everyone will agree with me.
I aim to shed light on the behind the scenes of aesthetics, to empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your treatments.
Watch my corresponding YouTube video for a deeper dive on microneedling.
Is Microneedling worth it?
So, what's all the fuss about microneedling? Well, many marketing campaigns claim it will work wonders for your skin, from boosting collagen production to smoothing out acne scars and wrinkles.
Sounds like a dream come true, right?
Maybe not… There's more to this story than meets the eye.
The Promise vs. Reality
Let's talk about expectations versus reality when it comes to microneedling. Sure, the idea of stimulating collagen and rejuvenating your skin sounds fantastic, but does microneedling actually deliver on these promises?
The short answer: not always.
While some people may see improvement in their skin's appearance after microneedling, many others are left disappointed by lackluster results or, worse, unforeseen complications.
Microneedling: Understanding the Risks
Now, let's address the risks associated with microneedling. While it's marketed as a minimally invasive procedure, the truth is that microneedling can have some serious downsides.
Think hyperpigmentation, loss of skin elasticity, acne-like scarring, infections – the list goes on. As someone who's seen these complications firsthand, I can tell you they're not to be taken lightly.
Why I'm Not Jumping on the Microneedling Bandwagon
You might be wondering why, as a skincare expert, I'm not singing the praises of microneedling from the rooftops. Despite the hype surrounding microneedling, I've found that other treatments – like lasers and energy-based devices – outperform microneedling in terms of efficacy and safety.
Plus, the marketing machine behind microneedling can sometimes overshadow the reality of its limitations.
Medi Spas: The Wild West of Aesthetics
Now, let's talk about where you're most likely to encounter microneedling: medi spas. These establishments, while often well-intentioned, can be a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to quality and expertise.
Microneedling has become a staple offering at many medi spas due to its simplicity and accessibility. Unfortunately, this means it's often performed by providers who lack the specialized training and experience needed to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Unpacking the Microneedling Hype: The Provider's Perspective
So, you've heard the buzz about microneedling and how it's touted as the solution to all your skincare problems. But have you ever stopped to wonder why certain providers push microneedling over other treatments?
I’ll break it down for you.
It often comes down to accessibility and ease of use. Unlike lasers, which require specialized training and expertise to operate effectively, microneedling devices are relatively straightforward.
So, when you see medi spas pushing microneedling, it's not necessarily because it's the best option – it's often just the easiest or most affordable one for them to offer.
The Pitfalls of Packages and Memberships
If a med spa is trying to rope you into a package deal or membership, you should proceed with caution. Why?
Because more often than not, these tactics are used to lock you in, regardless of whether you're actually seeing results.
Trust me, I've had countless patients come into my office feeling obligated to continue with treatments they're not happy with from other providers, simply because they've already paid for them. That's not how skincare should work.
You should be coming back because you love the results, not because you're financially committed.That’s why at my office, you’ll never be sold into a “package deal”
The Business of Beauty: Follow the Money
When it comes to overhead costs, microneedling has a distinct advantage over high-performance lasers like the ones I use in my practice. Microneedling devices are cheaper to purchase and maintain, which means med spas can charge a pretty penny for treatments while keeping their costs low.
It's a win-win for them – but is it a win for you? That's up for debate.
When it comes to skincare, knowledge is power.
Don't be swayed by flashy marketing campaigns or celebrity endorsements – dig deeper, ask questions, and seek out treatments that are backed by scientific evidence and performed by qualified professionals.
And remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to skincare. What works for one person might not work for another.
So, take the time to find what works best for you, and don't be afraid to demand the results you deserve.
MDAiRE Skincare for results you can see
Dr. Kappel recommends considering our MDAiRE VItamin C-FK and our RXR Retinol used in combination when looking for the same results microneedling if offering.
