Types of Micro Needling

Micro Needling is done in two modes, either as Mesotherapy (Cosmetic Needling) or as Medical (Dermal) Needling. Scope of Practice determines how far a practitioner can work safely, but science and knowledge of the skin will determine the depth of penetration required and whether cosmetic/epidermal needling is suited over dermal needling. This is dependant on the condition being treated and the individual parameters of the patient’s skin health profile.

Medical/Dermal Needling for Scar Revision & Stretch Marks

Medical needling is a stand alone therapy used to stimulate the wound healing cascade from the dermis. By delivering a micro-trauma to the epidermis, cellular communication via keratinocytes (skin cells) initiates signals to the cells in the basement membrane of the epidermis & the papillary dermis (just below the dermo-epidermal junction). A correction to skin laxity and wrinkles can occur when the fibroblast cells are activated to respond. The fibroblasts is the cell responsible for creating collagen synthesis and a healthy extracellular matrix which, provides volume and density. The micro-trauma that occurs at this level of the skin increases and recruits platelets, fibroblasts, endothelial, epithelial and immune cells to the area.  Needling is one of the best ways to counteract UV induced damage & to reset all cellular metabolic processes. The mechanism of action of mesotherapy works by stimulating keratinocytes to release and up-regulate growth factors and cytokines (Setterfield, 2017). This cellular activity improves the cell-to-cell communication which also has an impact on stimulating collagen formation in the dermis.

The depth of penetration does not need to be deep to stimulate a powerful response & amazing results. For acne scarring, stretch marks & deep scarring, a referral maybe required to an appropriate practitioner where topical anaesthetics maybe needed. This is a medical technique & a multi-modal approach is often used for specific indications. The downtime from the medical needling varies & suitability for this method is determined at your Skin Health Assessment.

After assessing the scar with the appropriate algorithm, a treatment strategy is developed that may include mesotherapy, dermal needling, LED, professional resurfacing/peeling &/or Platelet Rich Plasma for the regeneration & initiation of healthy collagen production.

Each Tx is individualised & itemised. Scar revision is a complex therapy & can be managed collaboratively with your medical practitioner, surgeon or wound care professional.

NB: Specialised nursing interventions may be eligible for those on NDIS.

Mesotherapy/Cosmetic Needling

Traditional mesotherapy is the process where active ingredients are “injected” into the skin. The active ingredients used in this method can be enzymes, hormones & medications, vitamins, hyaluronic acid, peptides and/or natural plant extracts.