Now offering Holistic Medical Microneedling in Richmond Hill!

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling just like Acupuncture in China dates back 2,000 years as it was used to rejuvenate the skin and even treat some skin diseases. Modern Microneedling devices are all based on this ancient technique.

Microneedling, also called Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), is a minimally invasive skin-rejuvenation procedure that stimulates collagen and elastin production.  With the use of the Microneedling device the tip ( which is disposed after each session) oscillates down to stimulate the skin creating tiny micro channels. These channels trigger the healing process and the production of collagen and elastin. The channels reach the epidermis and dermis layers which allows the skin to absorb the high quality serums used during treatment, at a dramatically increased rate. Studies show this procedure can increase the skins ability to utilize nutrients by up to 3,000 %.

How is microneedling similar to Cosmetic Acupuncture ( Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture)? How is it different?

Both increase Collagen and Elastin. Both are natural, safe and effective.

Cosmetic Acupuncture not only improves skin health and reduces sihns of aging, it also treats muscles and deeper layers of skin and fascia to improve strength and the health of skin. Cosmetic Acupuncture takes between 6-12 weekly sessions so more intense time commitment is required whereas with Microneedling, 3-4 sessions are required so it is sometime most suitable for busy schedules. Microneedling is a more “surface”” level treatment by itself and when combined with body and face Acupuncture, then it can help address the signs of aging as well as help rejuvenate the body internally.

Microneedling is better in treating scars including acne scars, and deeper lines.

Best results are often in combining both treatments. An example may be receiving 6 Cosmetic Acupuncture sessions, then 3 Microneedling sessions over 3 months and then continuing with monthly maintenance Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments on an ongoing basis. Then adding 1-2 Microneedling sessions per year to keep the optimal results.

How is this Microneedling different from other places that offer it?

Receiving Microneedling from a Registered Acupuncturist is holistic and treats the whole body. You will receive a full Acupuncture assessment and treatment. It also ensures all precautions, safety concerns are addressed. The treatment is safe and hygienic as Acupuncturists are trained and skilled in treating with needles safely and effectively and to minimize an risk or side effects. In most jurisdictions Microneedling is only allowed to be performed by health practitioners such as MDs, NDs, and Acupuncturists only. Another added bonus is that Celluma LED light therapy is used immediately after your session to accelerate collagen/elastin building as well as healing the skin to reduce the downtime. There is no extra fees for this addition.

As part of your appointment., your skin health and overall health is assessed thoroughly and you may be given recommendations for lifestyle adjustments as well as an herbal medicine prescription to take internally or to apply topically.

Acupuncturists are trained extensively on a standard method called “Clean Needling Technique” to ensure utmost safety and to prevent infectious diseases associated with any needling.

What kind of device do you use?

Health Canada Approved Eclipse MicroPen® EVO

Holistic Microneedling Benefits::

studies have shown an average 206% increase in collagen and up to 1,000% increase in collagen production after a single treatment.

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Reduces Acne and Acne Scaring

  • Tightens the skin

  • Hair growth (alopecia)

  • Minimizes Age/Dark spots or patches on your skin (hyperpigmentation)

  • Enlarged appearance of pores

  • Reduces Scars on body

  • Stretch marks on abdomen

  • Sun damage (face, arms, legs, chest)

  • Melasma

  • Vitiligo : Studies have shown that Microneedling may benefit patients suffering from this disease as it helps in repair of skin and repigmentation.

How many treatments and how often?

It depends on each individual and each is fully assessed individually but typically 3-4 sessions once per month.

How much does it cost?

Each treatment session costs $365.

I have insurance coverage/benefits from my work, is this covered for reimbursement?

Since this is a health focused whole body Acupuncture treatment plus face microneedling, you will receive a receipt for the body Acupuncture portion of the treatment ( $165 ) that you may claim through your insurance. Please you have to check your benefits to see if services of “Registered Acupuncturists” are covered in your specific plan.

How long do the results last?

Microneedling works due to stimulation of growth factors and collagen, thereby promoting new skin cells to surface. As our skin ages, our collagen production naturally slows down. New collagen and elastin formation in the skin are documented as visually and measurably improved as much as one year after just one treatment and 3-5 years after 3-4 treatments.There are no guarantees and each person is different. As par of holistic approach, we recommend monthly maintenancee Acupuncture treatments and Microneedling 1-2 times per year after the initial 3-4 sessions.

Can you show me before and after photos of treatments?

As a regulated Health Professional, Acupuncturists are not allowed to guarantee results or show before and after photos. However, you can do your own research and find many photos online regarding typical results that some people have posted, especially practitioners in the US. San Diego Cosmetic Acupuncture is one of the pioneers in training Acupuncturists on Microneedling and you can see more about it on their website: https://cosmeticacupuncturesd.com/

Is it safe?

It is safe if the device is Health Canada approved and the practitioner is fully trained and skilled. As a Regulated Health Professional, Acupuncturists are the most skilled in providing Microneedling treatments.

Is there any downtime?

Yes, 12 hours to 72 hours, during this time skin may be red and sensitive as it remodels and improves.

How long will it take for me to see results from my microneedling treatment?

After each session, you will typically notice improvements after 2 weeks.

What is the aftercare like?

  • No exercise or sweating for 2 days

  • no make up day of

  • no cleansing or use of facial soaps day of

  • only use recommended products for the first 24 - 48 hours ( Hyarulonic acid may be provided to you to take home)

  • Avoid the sun for the first couple of days

What are the Precautions and Contraindications for Microneedling?

  • Avoid retinols within a week of treatment.

  • Avoid Botox, fillers, other invasive skin treatments 2 months before treatment.

  • Avoid non-invasive lasers

  • No Hair color if working on scalp (7 days prior to treatment)

  • Cold sore in the treatment area - Please ask your doctor is you are prone to breakouts as you may need to take antivirals prior to sessions to avoid breakouts.

  • Poor wound healing or history of keloids

  • Pacemakers or any implanted electrical devices

  • Pregnant or lactating

  • Weakened immune system

  • Uncontrolled diabetes

  • Psoriasis, eczema or chronic rashes in treatment area

  • Blood coagulation disorders or blood thinners (7 days)

  • No sunburn

  • 30 days before no: No other micro or nano needling, skin resurfacing, deep chemical peels.

 

Medical Microneedling