At our aesthetics clinic, we use advanced skincare formulations, including using SkinCeuticals products. Their Hydrating B5 serum aims to enhance skin texture, tone and overall appearance by promoting collagen production and allowing for deeper penetration of active ingredients.
For skin discolouration (such as uneven skin tone, age spots, melasma and sun damage) and to restore moisture and firmness caused by the degradation of native hyaluronic acid and collagen fibers, a serum containing a mixture of depigmenting, hydrating, firming, tightening and antioxidant ingredients can be used. Key ingredients include:
- Hyaluronic Acid 2% (Low Molecular Weight) – For its deep moisturising effect
- Arbutin 2% – Treats uneven skin tone and has an anti-pigmentation effect
- Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline)1% – Lifting, tightening and anti-wrinkle effect. Provides a Botox like effect
- Panax Ginseng 1% – Strengthens the skin and benefits its barrier functions
- Ascorbic Acid – A strong antioxidant that slows the rate of free-radical damage
- sh-Oligopeptide-1 / EGF – Encourages tissue regeneration
- Palmitoyl Oligopeptide – Increases collagen and hyaluronic acid levels in the the skin
Platelet rich plasma or PRP is derived from the blood and is rich in growth factors and is applied to the skin during the microneedling process, allowing the growth factors to penetrate deeply into the dermis. This combination accelerates tissue repair, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin texture and tone and can even address concerns such as acne scars and hyperpigmentation.
How does microneedling work?
PRP or a serum is microneedled with a device that has fine, sterile needles which creates tiny punctures in the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, promoting collagen and elastin production. After microneedling, SkinCeuticals serums are applied to the treated area. The microchannels created by the needles enhance the absorption and efficacy of these high-quality skincare products.
Benefits
- Enhanced Absorption: Microneedling increases the permeability of the skin, allowing products to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
- Collagen Stimulation: The procedure stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, leading to firmer, more youthful skin.
- Improved Skin Texture: Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars and hyperpigmentation.
- Customisable Treatment: Different SkinCeuticals products can be tailored to address specific skin concerns, such as aging, sun damage or uneven skin tone.
SkinCeuticals Products Used in the Treatment
- C E Ferulic: A potent antioxidant serum that neutralises free radicals, boosts collagen production and provides protection against environmental damage.
- Hydrating B5: This serum can be microneedled into the skin and is a hydrating serum that amplifies the skin’s hyaluronic acid levels, providing long-lasting hydration and plumping of the skin.
- Epidermal repair cream: Therapeutic skin repair cream which relieves and soothes fragile, compromised or sensitive skin.
- Phyto Corrective Mask: A soothing mask that reduces redness and hydrates the skin, ideal for post-procedure calming such as microneedling.
- Advanced Brightening UV Defense SPF50 Sunscreen: Dual-action, lightweight sunscreen with SPF 50 that helps protect the skin from UV-induced discolouration and helps evens skin tone.
Procedure Overview
- Consultation: An initial consultation with the pharmacist to assess skin concerns and determine the most appropriate serum or PRP.
- Preparation: The skin is cleansed and numbing cream is applied to minimise discomfort during the microneedling process.
- Microneedling: The device is gently moved across the skin, creating controlled micro-injuries with either platelet rich plasma or a hydrating B5 serum.
- Application of Serums: Immediately after microneedling, SkinCeuticals products are applied to the treated area to maximise absorption.
- Post-Treatment Care: Patients are given aftercare instructions, which may include the continued use of specific SkinCeuticals products to enhance and maintain results.
Results and Maintenance
- Initial Results: Improved skin texture and radiance may be noticeable within a few days.
- Full Results: Optimal results typically appear after a series of treatments, usually spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
- Long-Lasting Effects: Continued use of SkinCeuticals products as part of a daily skincare routine can help maintain and prolong the results of the microneedling treatment.
Considerations
- Mild Side Effects: Temporary redness, swelling and slight discomfort are common immediately following the procedure.
- Downtime: Minimal downtime is required, with most patients resuming normal activities within a day or two.
Treatment Summary
Treatment Time: 45 minutes
Results: 24-72 hours
Results Duration: Permanent