Microneedling is a popular skincare treatment with celebrities and influencers alike, and now, more and more regular folk like us are getting in on the action. But while there are huge benefits from the procedure, some people are complaining of side effects, namely hyperpigmentation.
So what’s the truth? Can microneedling cause our skin to get darker? We looked into it.
What is microneedling?
Firstly, let’s cover what microneedling actually is in order to broaden our understanding. Microneedling is a cosmetic treatment that involves using a handheld tool to penetrate the skin with hundreds of tiny sterilized needles. The process usually takes between 10-20 minutes and is carried out by a qualified dermatologist.
The act of causing so many minuscule holes is intended to stimulate the body into creating more collagen and elastin, which work to boost skin health and reduce the visual signs of aging. It is an incredibly popular procedure that is gaining massive traction in the skincare and beauty world.
The benefits of microneedling
Microneedling has a big laundry list of amazing skin benefits. Thousands of people are experiencing big advantages in their overall skin health and appearance.
Here are some of the best benefits of microneedling.
Helps with acne
People who suffer from acne can see noticeable improvements in their skin through microneedling. This is because the needles that prick the skin stimulate the growth of new healthy skin cells, which help to fade acne scars and lessen symptoms over time.
Reduces lines & wrinkles
Microneedling is a fantastic anti-aging treatment. The prominence of fine lines and wrinkles can be significantly diminished through regular sessions. This is because microneedling helps to stimulate the production of collagen, which helps keep skin smooth and youthful.
Minimizes large pores
If you have larger pores, you’re probably rather experienced with breakouts and other skin complications. Luckily, microneedling can help to reduce the size of large pores, which will go a long way in minimizing the chances of future breakouts and blockages.
Fades scars & stretch marks
Much like its effect on acne, microneedling can help to fade those unsightly scars and stretch marks by helping the body produce more collagen. This is a godsend for women who have just given birth and are looking to smooth those belly marks!
Helps with dark spots
If you are wanting to reduce the appearance of dark spots or patches of hyperpigmentation, microneedling can help (usually). Again the process is simple, the penetration from the needles elicits a skin-healing response through the production of collagen, helping to ease those troublesome spots.
What a great list of benefits! Though you might have noticed something at the end there. Yes, microneedling is recommended to treat hyperpigmentation, but in some cases, it can actually do the opposite.
Can microneedling cause hyperpigmentation?
The answer to this question is yes, but it depends on certain factors. First of all, the majority of people who undergo microneedling will probably be absolutely fine and experience little to no concerning after-effects. Microneedling wouldn’t be such a popular procedure if everyone came out of it all messed up, right?
However, microneedling can cause inflammation in certain people’s skin due to its invasive measures, and in that regard, hyperpigmentation can definitely be an issue. When our skin experiences inflammation, the body immediately jumps into a protective mode. White blood cells are dispatched in order to fight a potential invasion of bacteria or a harmful infection. This process can act as a trigger for melanin production in the body, which can either cause dark spots to appear or make existing patches of hyperpigmentation more defined.
If you have issues with inflammation, microneedling may not be the best course of action for you. Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for skincare, especially when it comes to dark spots and hyperpigmentation. You must evaluate your own skin, how it reacts to certain things, and determine whether this procedure is suitable.
In conclusion
Microneedling has a great set of benefits for the skin, however, hyperpigmentation can certainly be caused or amplified if that person is sensitive to inflammation. To be sure whether microneedling is for you, seek the advice of a doctor or professional dermatologist.
