By Christina Kemp
From sun damage to scars, women have a host of skin concerns. Many of them, according to aesthetician Christina Kemp, can be addressed with microneedling.
During this minimally invasive procedure, thin needles make tiny holes in the top layer of the skin. The damage helps stimulate the skin’s natural healing process — producing more collagen and elastin, which keeps skin firm and smooth.
“I believe microneedling is so popular because of the long- lasting results,” says Kemp, a skin professional with Aqua Medical Spa in Biloxi. “With as few as three treatments spaced 30 days apart, clients can improve their appearance for six-plus months after the last treatment.”
Kemp notes that a good candidate for microneedling is anyone who is experiencing hyperpigmentation, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles.
“The treatment is done in- office using topical numbing, so most patients experience little to no discomfort,” she says. “Initial skin tightening and pore reduction often can be seen immediately after treatment.”
However, she adds that optimal results take about four to six weeks – roughly the amount of time that it takes for collagen to develop fully.