Microchanneling 

 

Microchanneling treats:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Stretch marks

  • Acne and chicken pocks scarring

  • Pigmentation 

  • Rejuvenates and firms skin

  • Delivers more youthful appearance 

  • Encourages production of collagen and elastin

Microchanneling, also referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), is a break through remedy for the treatment of wrinkles and pigmentation, scars (including burn scars, acne scars and surgical scars) and stretch marks. 

Clinical studies have shown that microchanneling produces channels in the dermis which sufficiently stimulate the body’s natural defenses to repair and produce concentrated amounts of collagen and proteins to the treated areas of skin. This results in the skins thickness being increased by up to 80% smoothing scars, visibly reducing stretch marks and erasing wrinkles. 

How does Microchanneling work?

The treatment introduces fine needles to the skin to create microscopic channels. In doing so the dermis is encouraged to produce new collagen and elastin which generates new skin cells. The skin then becomes thicker, plumper and more youthful. An instrument that is covered with many ultra-fine needles is run across the targeted areas to create small channels in the skin. As the device stamps along the skin, these needles penetrate the upper layers of skin to a depth of up to 1.5mm (depending on the needle length used) producing thousands of tiny puncture marks or micro-medical needle- channels in the skin. 

These microscopic wounds, which heal within a few hours, stimulate the skin’s healing process and increase collagen and elastin production. The effect is similar to fractional laser treatments, but not as deeply penetrating. Microchanneling is gentle enough to stimulate collagen production without producing scar tissue or increasing pigmentation. 

How do SteM Cells inhance Healing?

Our treatment is further enhanced with the combination of human growth-factor serums derived from bone marrow. Mesenchymal stem cells are known to promote scarless healing with minimal inflammation. Application of serums immediately after microchanneling treatment enhances delivery and collagen growth.

What is the principal behind Microchanneling?

As mentioned previously, microchanneling is a form of Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT). The idea behind CIT is similar to that of many other non-surgical skin-tightening procedures in that it aims to create a controlled injury underneath the skin’s surface, thereby inducing the body to respond through the formation of new tissue layers of elastin and collagen fibers (neo-collagenesis) as well as new capillaries for an improved blood supply (neo-angiogenesis) in the treated area. The skin plumps and thickens in response to this stimulus, ultimately reducing the appearance of scars, and fine lines and other skin texture changes.

What are the effects of Microchanneling on the skin?

It improves the thickness of the dermis as well as the epidermis. This in return improves skin texture and reduces wrinkles. It also has a positive effect on hyper-pigmentation as well as on hypo-pigmentation. Disfiguring scars, especially acne scars, can many times be improved. New collagen fibers can elevate the depressed scar tissue. 

What is the down time after a Micrchanneling treatment?

Recovery after this treatment depends on the length and density of the needles used. The skin will be pink or red in appearance for 24-48 hours, much like a sunburn with some minor bleeding and very occasionally some mild bruising. The skin may also feel warm, tight and itchy for a short while. Generally the inflammatory reaction of the skin is overall usually short and fades significantly after a couple of days on average, depending on the skin color of the individual. Occasionally the patient might have peeling if a more aggressive treatment is performed. Patients with a more sensitive skin type or older patients may take upwards of one week to fully recover. 

Are there any side effects or risks from this procedure?

Side effects and risks are minimal with this type of treatment and typically include minor flaking or dryness of the skin, with some mild scab formation in rare circumstances. Infections are extremely rare. Since the tiny pricking channels close within minutes, and provided the procedure is done under clinical conditions, post-op infections are very unlikely. As this is a non-ablative treatment hyper-pigmentation or darkening of the skin area treated is highly unlikely but can very rarely occur. This is usually temporary and subsides after the first couple of months. Suitable make-up will be able to conceal this if necessary. If you have a history of cold sores, then this could possibly flare up after the treatment. 

What should I do after the treatment?

Immediately after the treatment use the provided roller within the next hour to keep your skin hydrated. Your hyaluronic acid sheet mask can be used two more times in the next 24 hours to aid in healing. Using tepid water to cleanse the face for the first 48 hours following treatment and drying the area gently without rubbing. Ensuring that your hands are always clean when touching the area treated to avoid any infections. Avoid applying makeup products for the first 12 hours following treatment although we will advise you when, what and how to apply some mineral based make up products. Home care products are available to enhance your results. Ask your esthi.

When will I see the results of the treatment?

It can take between 6-8 weeks before visible signs of skin regeneration are seen and the process will continue to evolve over the ensuing 6-10 months providing a gradual improvement. Although a single treatment can provide a noticeable result, ideally however a series of 15 treatments spaced about 4 weeks apart, is recommended to achieve optimal results.