Microneedling explained simply: what it is and who it's for

Looking for healthier, stronger-looking skin?

If you've been noticing changes in your skin lately, perhaps it feels duller, less smooth, more dehydrated or fine lines are becoming more noticeable, microneedling may be a treatment worth considering.

Microneedling is one of the advanced skincare treatments available at the Retreat Brecon as part of the Eve Taylor Pro Rejuvenate range. It has become increasingly popular because it works with the skin's natural repair processes to improve overall skin quality, texture and resilience.

But what exactly is microneedling, how does it work, and who is it suitable for?

Let's take a closer look.

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a professional skin rejuvenation treatment that uses tiny, controlled needles to create micro-channels within the skin.

While this may sound intimidating, these micro-channels are created in a precise and controlled manner by a trained professional. The purpose is not to damage the skin but to stimulate the skin's natural repair response.

Microneedling is a more advanced approach to skin rejuvenation, designed to improve overall skin quality through controlled stimulation, professional skincare support, and encouragement of the skin's natural repair processes.

As the skin responds to the treatment, it begins producing fresh collagen and elastin, helping to improve texture, firmness, and overall skin health.

Why does skin change as we get older?

One of the questions I hear regularly is:

‘I've used the same skincare for years. Why doesn't it seem to be working anymore?’

The answer is that our skin changes throughout our lives.

As we age, the natural processes that keep our skin looking healthy begin to slow down.

Collagen production gradually decreases, skin cell turnover becomes slower and the skin's ability to retain moisture can diminish.  Hormonal changes, stress, sun exposure, lifestyle factors and environmental damage can all contribute to these changes.

As a result, skin may begin to appear:

• Less firm

• More dehydrated

• Duller in appearance

• Rougher in texture

• More prone to fine lines

This doesn't mean your skin is unhealthy. It simply means its needs have changed.

Treatments such as microneedling can help support the skin during these changes and encourage it to function more effectively.

Understanding collagen and elastin

To understand why microneedling works, it helps to know a little about collagen and elastin.

Collagen is often described as the skin's support structure. It helps provide firmness and strength.

Elastin does exactly what its name suggests. It allows the skin to stretch and bounce back into place.

When we are younger, our bodies produce both collagen and elastin efficiently. Over time, production naturally slows.

This is one of the reasons why skin may begin to lose some of its firmness and elasticity.

Microneedling encourages the skin to produce more of these important structural proteins as part of its natural repair response.

How does microneedling work?

During treatment, a professional microneedling device is passed across the skin, creating tiny micro-channels.

The skin recognises these micro-channels and responds by activating its repair and renewal processes.

Over the weeks following treatment, collagen and elastin production increases as part of this natural healing response.

Rather than forcing change, microneedling encourages the skin to do what it is already designed to do: repair, renew and strengthen itself.

This is one of the reasons it has become such a respected treatment within professional skincare.

The role of hyaluronic acid

As part of the Eve Taylor Pro Rejuvenate microneedling treatment, a professional hyaluronic acid serum is applied during the procedure.

Hyaluronic acid is naturally present within the skin and is well known for its ability to attract and retain moisture.

In fact, a single molecule of hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water.

This makes it an excellent ingredient for supporting skin hydration during and after treatment.

Benefits include:

• Improved hydration

• Enhanced skin comfort

• Support for the skin barrier

• A smoother, plumper appearance

• Support for the skin's healing processes

Many clients notice that their skin feels fresher and more hydrated after treatment, even before the longer-term benefits begin to develop.

What skin concerns can microneedling help with?

Microneedling is a versatile treatment that can benefit a variety of skin concerns.

These include:

Fine lines and early signs of ageing

By encouraging collagen production, microneedling can help soften the appearance of fine lines and support skin firmness.

Uneven skin texture

Skin that feels rough, uneven or lacking smoothness can often benefit from the skin renewal processes stimulated by treatment.

Enlarged pores

Many clients notice an improvement in the appearance of enlarged pores as overall skin quality improves.

Mild acne scarring

Microneedling is often used to support the appearance of mild to moderate acne scarring by encouraging skin remodelling.

Dull or tired-looking skin

As skin renewal improves, many clients report a brighter and fresher-looking complexion.

Dehydrated skin

The use of professional hyaluronic acid helps support hydration and skin comfort.

What does a treatment feel like?

This is one of the most common questions clients ask.

Most people describe the sensation as a light prickling feeling rather than pain.

Some areas of the face may feel more sensitive than others, but the treatment is generally well tolerated.

Afterwards, the skin may appear pink or slightly flushed, similar to mild sun exposure. This is completely normal and usually settles as the skin begins its renewal process.

Your full aftercare instructions will be discussed with you before and after treatment.

Who is microneedling suitable for?

Microneedling can be an excellent option for people who:

• Are noticing signs of skin ageing

• Feel their skin has become dull or tired-looking

• Want to improve skin texture

• Would like to support overall skin quality

• Are looking for a professional treatment with gradual, natural-looking results

It is particularly popular amongst clients who want to invest in the long-term health of their skin rather than seek quick fixes.

However, not every treatment is suitable for every person.

This is why consultation and assessment are an important part of the process.

Why is a course of treatments recommended?

While many clients notice an improvement after their first treatment, microneedling works best as a course.

The skin needs time to respond, repair and build new collagen.

For this reason, a course of three treatments is recommended to achieve the best results.

At the Retreat Brecon, microneedling is available as:

• Single treatment: £90

• Course of 3 treatments with supporting homecare skincare: £315

Once a course has been completed, many clients choose to maintain their results with treatments throughout the year, particularly around seasonal changes when the skin may need additional support.

My approach to microneedling at the Retreat Brecon

My approach to skincare has always been about supporting healthy skin rather than chasing trends.

Microneedling sits alongside my work in clinical aromatherapy and professional skincare, allowing me to create treatment plans that are tailored to the individual rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

Every skin is unique.

That's why consultation, skin assessment, and ongoing support form an important part of every skincare journey.

If microneedling is not the most suitable treatment for your skin, I will always guide you towards an option that is.

The goal is not simply to book a treatment. The goal is to help you achieve healthier, happier skin.

Is microneedling right for you?

If you're curious about microneedling and would like to find out whether it could benefit your skin, I'd be happy to help.

Together we can discuss your concerns, assess your skin, and create a plan that supports your skin's needs both now and in the future.

Ready to learn more?

For more information about microneedling or to book your consultation or treatment, you can:

Book online via the website https://www.retreatbrecon.co.uk/book-now

or

Email me directly to discuss your skin concerns and treatment options.

I look forward to helping you on your skincare journey.