I’ve found that microneedling has become one of the most requested advanced skin treatments in recent years, and it’s for good reason. Known for its ability to tighten, lift and rejuvenate the skin, microneedling harnesses the skin’s natural healing processes to create healthier, more resilient skin over time.
Whilst the treatment isn’t new, the conversation around it is evolving. Dermalogica has recently partnered with the British Association for Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (BABTAC) and launched the Sharp Standards Guide to Microneedling. Together, they’ve created this comprehensive guide to support aesthetic professionals in meeting their professional, legal and ethical obligations.
It’s an important, topical reminder that achieving excellent results isn’t simply about choosing the treatment. This new guidance flags the importance of choosing the right practitioner who prioritises safety and compliance.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses thin needles to make tiny holes in the top layer of the skin, stimulating the skin’s natural healing response. As a result, this encourages the production of collagen and elastin, which are the skin’s building blocks for maintaining firm, smooth, and youthful-looking skin.
As collagen production increases, the skin gradually becomes stronger, more refined, and more even in appearance. As collagen and elastin naturally decline as we age, in response, this treatment can be used to address a variety of concerns:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scarring
- Enlarged pores
- Uneven texture
- Loss of firmness
- Dull or tired-looking skin
Unlike treatments that simply provide a temporary surface improvement, microneedling works deep within the skin, encouraging long-term regeneration.
Is Microneedling More Than a Device?
One of the reasons microneedling has become so popular is because it is a minimally invasive treatment. But whilst this is technically true, microneedling is still a procedure that intentionally creates a controlled injury within the skin.
That means there’s more to the treatment than just the device used. The depth of treatment, skin condition being treated, healing response, and aftercare requirements all need to be carefully considered beforehand.
This is precisely why the new Sharp Standards Guide to Microneedling has been welcomed by many professionals within the industry, as it highlights the importance of infection control, client safety protocols and practitioner competence. Successful microneedling is focused on how skin responds to those micro-injuries, and how to support the healing process safely and effectively.
What Does the Sharp Standards Guide Mean for Clients?
Before the introduction of the Sharp Standards guides, it had been difficult for practitioners to navigate local authority and national requirements without an overarching regulation governing non-surgical procedures in place.
Now, the Sharp Standards provides a comprehensive toolkit for practitioners to meet their legal, ethical and professional obligations when delivering microneedling treatments – ensuring client safety, educating on the confusing regulatory landscape, and helping clinics build credibility and trust.
For clients, the introduction of clearer best-practice guidance is great news. It reinforces the importance of choosing a qualified practitioner who understands the nuances of performing the treatment. Clients will be able to seek a trusted practitioner who demonstrates a commitment to cosmetic education, safety and excellence.
What to Look for in a Microneedling Practitioner?
With industry standards placing greater emphasis on safety and competency, clients should feel confident about asking questions before booking a treatment.
Consider the following when looking for a microneedling practitioner:
Do they carry out a detailed consultation? A comprehensive consultation should always be performed to assess your skin, understand your goals, and determine whether the treatment is appropriate for you.
Do you understand the treatment? Practitioners must provide clear, accurate information before treatment and set realistic expectations about outcomes to ensure the client can make an informed decision.
Do they provide clear aftercare guidance? The healing process plays a key role in the final outcome. Proper aftercare and support with recovery help to optimise results while minimising infection risk and complications.
Do you feel confident in their expertise? Your practitioner should be able to explain the treatment clearly, answer questions confidently, and provide honest
recommendations based on your individual needs. They should also demonstrate appropriate training and qualification, as well as practical competence and knowledge of skin anatomy.
What Results Can You Expect?
Microneedling stimulates a gradual process of repair and regeneration, which means results continue to develop in the weeks following treatment.
Many clients notice improved skin texture, increased radiance and smoother skin. Clients also noticed enhanced firmness, a more even skin tone, and an improved appearance of scars and imperfections.
Microneedling promotes scar-less healing and natural collagen reproduction, similar to fractional laser treatment, IPL laser resurfacing and chemical peels, but without the side-effects and downtime. It can effectively treat hard-to-reach places in a very effective way (e.g. around the eyes, nose and lips).
While some improvement can be seen after a single session, a course of treatments is typically recommended for optimal results. The exact number of treatments required will depend on your skin concerns and goals, which’ll be discussed in your consultation.
Microneedling With Chelseé Lewis
In my Marylebone clinic, every treatment begins with a thorough consultation and skin assessment. With over 30 years of experience working with complex skin concerns, I believe that exceptional results come from understanding the skin as a whole, not simply treating what appears on the surface.
The introduction of the Sharp Standards Guide to Microneedling is a positive step for the industry, and reflects the principles that have always been at the heart of my practice: expertise, safety, and personalised care.