Hyperpigmentation is a common sign of premature aging. It is the result of increased melanin production following excessive sun exposure, a hormonal imbalance, inflammation, or certain medications.
People with this skin condition typically use makeup to disguise it, but there are more practical, long-term solutions.
This article discusses microneedling for hyperpigmentation, a popular cosmetic treatment that effectively minimizes dark spots in all skin types.
How Does Microneedling for Hyperpigmentation Work?
Microneedling makes tiny punctures on the skin’s surface, creating microinjuries that induce collagen and elastin production, melanin breakdown, and skin regeneration. Damaged, hyperpigmented cells peel off as the new, more homogenized skin grows.
Does Microneedling for Hyperpigmentation Work on Dark Skin?
Microneedling is suitable for all skin types, including dark skin. It helps break down clumps of excess melanin, leading to a brighter and more even skin tone. However, dark skin is more prone to post-inflammatory pigmentation – a side effect of the body’s inflammatory reaction to the treatment. Patients need to follow their medical provider’s instructions before and after the treatment to reduce this risk.
Note: Learn the difference between microneedling and chemical peels and which one is a better solution for dark skin.
What Can You Expect During Microneedling for Hyperpigmentation?
Microneedling for hyperpigmentation is a quick, painless procedure. The medical provider first cleanses the treatment area and applies a numbing cream to minimize discomfort. They use a hand-held device with dozens of tiny needles that puncture the skin and create microchannels with pinpoint precision. Sometimes, providers apply additional skincare products with active ingredients during the treatment, taking advantage of the microchannels that enable faster and more effective ingredient absorption.
The session may take up to 90 minutes. Patients typically feel mild stinging during the session but no pain. They can resume their daily activities without downtime.
How Many Microneedling Sessions for Hyperpigmentation Are Needed?
Skin professionals recommend three to six sessions spaced four to six weeks apart for sunspots, age spots, melasma, and other hyperpigmentation concerns. Many patients experience the lightening of hyperpigmented areas after the first treatment but need more sessions for optimal results.
The total number of visits depends on the patient’s skin type and condition.
How Long Does Microneedling Take to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation?
Microneedling brightens and evens the skin tone gradually because it takes time for fibroblast cells to increase collagen production and repair skin tissue. Patients usually see an improvement within several weeks and the fading of dark spots after three to six months. Skin experts recommend repeated annual treatments to maintain results.
Can Microneedling for Hyperpigmentation Be Combined with Other Treatments?
Microneedling is more effective with skincare products that inhibit melanin production, increase cell turnover, and brighten the skin. Providers apply the serum with active ingredients on the treatment area, and they penetrate deep dermal layers thanks to the newly created microchannels in the skin.
Vitamin C is often the providers’ top choice because of its brightening and anti-inflammatory properties. They also use hydroquinone, vitamin A (retinol), kojic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, and innovative solutions, such as PRP.
Microneedling with PRP involves the application of platelet-rich plasma drawn from the patient’s blood. It contains platelets, cytokines, and growth factors, which promote cell turnover and help homogenize the complexion.
Vivace microneedling is another popular option for hyperpigmentation. It combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy and LED light therapy, both stimulating increased collagen production and wound healing.
Combining microneedling with compatible rejuvenating products and treatments can yield more dramatic and longer-lasting results.
Note: Read about more solutions for full-body rejuvenation.
Are There Any Side Effects of Microneedling for Hyperpigmentation?
Microneedling is considered safe when performed by medical professionals using FDA-approved microneedling pens. Mild, short-term side effects are common, including:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Bruising
- Dry skin
- Skin flaking and peeling
- Pinpoint bleeding
In rare cases, patients may experience numbing, infection, allergies, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Can You Do Microneedling for Hyperpigmentation at Home?
Patients can buy and use microneedling roller devices at home. However, they don’t provide the same effects as the professional treatment. At-home devices have smaller needles, which are unable to generate a strong enough healing and rejuvenating response from the body. Home users also lack the experience, technique, and precision of medical professionals, which further reduces the treatment’s effectiveness and increases the risk of injury.
How Much Does Microneedling for Hyperpigmentation Cost?
At Vibrant Skin Bar, one microneedling session costs $300. Our skin professionals also provide combined treatments. Microneedling with Stemfactor costs $400, microneedling with vitamin A costs $450, and Vivace with PRF costs $,1000.
Conclusion
If your dark spots are causing you distress, consider eliminating them with microneedling. It’s a quick and safe procedure that will not only brighten your complexion, but also reduce wrinkles, tighten your skin, and improve other aging signs.
