What is Collagen Induction Therapy and How Does It Heal Your Skin?
Collagen induction therapy (CIT), often called microneedling, is a common solution for patients who wish to have smoother, younger looking skin. As a result of its growing popularity, it’s only right that we discuss what CIT really is and if it really heals your skin as it claims.
What Is It?
Collagen induction therapy is a simple cosmetic procedure in which a group of sterile microneedles puncture the skin of the face. The goal is to promote the growth of collagen and new skin tissue.
Why Is It Popular?
The main reason CIT is such a popular option is the potential for zero downtime when compared to other cosmetic procedures. Microneedling requires no recovery and is minimally invasive. It is also safe for most individuals when performed by a professional. Besides a bit of redness and slight irritation, patients don’t have too much to be worried about. For many, microneedling is the easiest way to reduce the look of acne marks, scars, and other facial marks. It’s a great option for those who have been let down by facial creams, masks, and peels.
How Does It Work?
Believe it or not, microneedling works by essentially injuring the skin. The continuous pinpricks create a series of small wounds triggering the body’s natural response of creating new tissue that is heavy in collagen. You can think of it like regrowing a new, firmer, more even-toned skin.
What Can I Expect?
First and foremost, you should make sure that you visit a certified institution to discuss the risks associated with the procedure and if it’s right for you. Once you are cleared, you’re ready for the procedure. Your doctor will then numb the specific area with a topical anesthetic.
When you are numb (almost an hour later), the doctor will prepare the microneedling tool, a pen-like instrument that houses the microneedles. He or she will evenly roll this tool over your skin, creating the micro-injuries. After the approximately thirty-minute procedure, your doctor may administer a topical cream that will calm a bit of the inflammation. Depending on the severity of your scarring, the doctor may recommend that you have several follow up procedures.
Over the next few days, patients may experience redness or mild irritation. However, if you begin experiencing bleeding, bruising, or worse, call your doctor right away.
Can Collagen Induction Therapy Really Heal My Skin?
This is the biggest question. Maybe it’s a little too forward to use the word “heal” as the procedure causes micro-injuries, but scientifically speaking, CIT may be successful for a large number of people. Unfortunately, there is no concrete data or statistics proving the success rate of CIT. Yet, given what we know about the body and its healing properties, microneedling should easily recreate new skin that will reduce the appearance of acne scars, wrinkles, and more.
Collagen induction therapy is an easy way to rejuvenate the skin. If you’re in the Cincinnati area or in a surrounding city, consider The Dermatology Group to receive help from our experts and see if CIT is right for you. Feel free to contact us today!