There is a wide variety of skin treatments available these days, and determining which one is right for you can be confusing. As a skilled dermatologist, Lisa Hitchins, MD, PA, specializes in comprehensive skin evaluations to pinpoint which treatment is the best fit for you and your skin’s needs.
At Dermatology Center of Northwest Houston, Dr. Hitchins and aesthetician Mari Benavente offer a number of high-quality skin care and aesthetic services, including popular options like microdermabrasion and microneedling.
While these procedures sound similar, microneedling and microdermabrasion work differently. Learn more about these aesthetic services to determine if either are an option you should consider.
The basics of microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a highly effective exfoliation treatment that targets the dead cells and debris on the surface layer of your skin.
Treatment involves a handheld device that contains a tip made up of tiny crystals. The microdermabrasion tool rotates the crystal tip across the skin, removing the outermost layer. This reveals the younger-looking, healthier skin below.
How microneedling works
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses an instrument known as the SkinPen® to make microscopic wounds in your skin. The tiny punctures have a big effect on your body’s natural healing system. As the SkinPen creates the wounds, your body begins producing an increased amount of collagen.
Collagen is a vital protein necessary for skin health. As new collagen grows, your skin improves both visibly and at a cellular level.
Determining which aesthetic treatment is right for you
To find out if you’re a candidate for either microneedling or microdermabrasion, Dr. Hitchens takes the time to review your medical history, your existing health, and the condition of your skin. She also discusses your expectations for treatment before recommending the right aesthetic procedure.
If your main objective for treatment is to address wrinkles and fine lines in your face, both microneedling and microdermabrasion are effective solutions.
When your skin is rough or dull, microdermabrasion is a great way to slough off old, dead skin and let the smoother, softer skin shine through. Microdermabrasion can also improve brightness in your skin, giving you a younger, more vibrant appearance.
If you’re looking to reduce the visibility of scars from acne or an injury, microneedling may be a better choice. The procedure stimulates new collagen to smooth out scars and also enhances blood circulation in your face to rejuvenate your skin.
Microneedling also tightens skin and plumping up areas where you’ve lost volume. If you have hyperpigmentation, like sunspots or age spots, microneedling is effective at fading these discolorations.
Long-lasting results with microneedling and microdermabrasion
Both aesthetic treatments provide you with long-lasting benefits. Microneedling is especially effective at producing results that last.
Following each procedure, the aesthetician carefully moisturizes and cares for your skin using the highest quality products. Dr. Hitchins can recommend other products and regimens to boost your results and protect your overall skin health.
To schedule a skin evaluation or an appointment for microdermabrasion or microneedling, contact Dermatology of Northwest Houston today by phone or by using the online booking feature.