INTRODUCTION
COLLAGEN INDUCTION THERAPY
Collagen Induction Therapy also known as microneedling is a cosmetic procedure during which skin is penetrated with fine, sterile needles to a depth between 0.5 to 2.5 mm which triggers healing process in teh skin and produciton of collagen fibres production resulting in smoother, firmer and brighter complection. Various devices like Dermapen®, SkinPen® or CollaPen® are used for this purpose.
The main difference between this treatment modailty compared with SylFirmX microneedling radiofrequency is the lack of delivery of energy to heat up the skin causing immediate tightening effect. The absence of thermal damage to the skin makes Collagen Induction Therapy safe to use in darker skin tones which are prone to post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) when exposed to physical or chemical trauma. After 4 to 6 treatment sessions the skin will continue collagen production for 3-6 months after microneedling.
APPLICATIONS
Main applications of Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT) include: acne scars and strechmarks, pigmentation problems, skin laxity and hair loss. Results may vary depending on the severity of treated condition and the number of treatments. Multiple monthly sessions are required followed by maintenance. CIT can be combined with skin boosters, topical serums with aminoacids, exosomes and growth factors to magnify the results.
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment which takes 30 minutes to do and has short recovery time of approximately 24 hours. Numbing cream is applied 30 minutes before treatment. Costs start from £250-£350 (Vampire facial).
REACTIONS
Most common adverse reactions following microneedling include skin irritation, redness and swelling. Rarely bleeding, bruising, infection and peeling may occur.
Before treatment stop Ibuprofen, Roaccutane, topical retinol and other exfoliants.
After treatment avoid: sun exposure, retinol and alpha-hydroxy acids, make-up and sweating, stay hydrated, use antioxidant serum, cooling mask and collagen stimulating peptides.