Microneedling With Dermaroller : An Effective Treatment For Acne Scarring

Scarring is a particularly distressing phenomenon and is most unwelcome when it occurs on the face. Facial scars can arise due to a number of causes, one of the commonest cause is acne.

It has always been a challenge to treat facial acne scarring. Many different treatments are available but the majority of these treatments are limited by being either marginally effective or having considerable recovery time and side effects. A safe and effective treatment option for facial acne scarring is microneedling with dermaroller. The effectiveness of dermaroller to treat scars is well documented by clinical studies.

The spikes on dermaroller are designed to pierce the skin to stimulate repair and collagen growth.


How does microneedling with dermaroller work ?

A dermaroller is a hand-held instrument consisting of a cylinder studded with fine micro-needles. Derma roller is rolled on the skin and the needles cause small pin point injuries. Skin injury instigate a process of wound healing by stimulating production of more collagen to fill up acne scars, thus leading to smoother skin.

Photo source : NCBI

Top photo : Facial scarring before treatment



Bottom photo : Significant improvement to scars after microneedling with dermaroller

 

What should I expect after microneedling with dermaroller procedure ?

There will be temporary mild swelling, redness and pin point bleeding on the skin immediately after the procedure. These effects typically last a few days. Sun avoidance is neccessary for at least a week after treatment.

What are the possible side effects from microneedling with dermaroller ?

There is very minimal risk of skin infection from dermaroller procedures that is performed in a clinical setting with proper sterilization of equipment. Application of topical anaesthetic cream to the skin prior to treatment will minimise any major discomfort or pain caused by microneedling.

How many treatment sessions are needed for dermaroller treatment ?

A series of 6 treatments performed at monthly intervals is required to achieve satisfactory results.

While microneedling with dermaroller is proven to be a simple and effective treatment for acne scarring, do note that it is a medical procedure and should only be performed by a licensed medical practitioner in a clinical environment. Self- treatment or treatment by unqualified personnel without knowledge of skin anatomy and sterility may lead to negative effects.

Laser Mole Removal

Many people refer to a mole as any dark spot or irregularity in the skin. Moles or naevi are frequently removed for a variety of reasons. If your mole is more of a blemish than a beauty spot, laser mole removal provides a safe and effective option for mole removal.

Not everyone loves their mole as much as Marilyn Monroe. Laser mole removal is a simple and quick alternative to surgery. 

How is laser mole removal performed ?

The mole will be examined by the doctor first. The skin will be cleaned and then numbed with a topical anaesthetic agent such as lidocaine cream or injection. A carbon dioxide laser is used to gently ablate the mole bit by bit until it is completely removed. The procedure takes about 5 to 10 minutes for each mole depending on mole size. Antibiotic cream will be applied to the treated area after the procedure. There will be scab formation at the treated area for a week for laser mole removal on the face and two weeks for laser mole removal on the body. It is important to wear sunscreen and avoid excessive sunlight exposure after treatment.

What happened to Sarah Jessica Parker's famous mole? Photos showed that the mole disappeared from her chin sometime during the summer of 2008 after she filmed the first 'Sex and the City' movie. She later admitted of having the mole removed for cosmetic reasons.

Can the mole be removed in a single treatment session ?

Smaller moles usually need one or two sessions of laser mole removal while larger moles will require more treatment sessions. The treatments should be performed at monthly intervals.

What are the limitations of laser mole removal ?

Laser mole removal is usually not suitable for very large moles or suspected cancerous moles. Excision and biopsy is the preferred treatment for these moles It is important to always have any odd shaped moles or other skin irregularities checked by a medical professional.

What are the possible complications from  laser mole removal ?

Immediate complications from laser mole removal include swelling, redness and pain. However, the risk of complications is low if proper care is taken.

Mole removal should always be performed by a trained medical professional. Home mole removal or mole removal by unlicensed practitioners should be avoided no matter how minor the mole seems to appear. Complications that can arise from improper mole removal include infection, bleeding, nerve damage and even permanent scarring. Mole removal performed by a an experienced medical professional significantly reduces the risk of complications.