Microneedling / Microneedling + PRP
"At Artistry Wellness Hawai ‘i we offer SkinPen microneedling to stimulate collagen growth and improve the tone and texture of your skin. Microneedling combined with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), aka Vampire Facial will infuse growth factors amplify your treatment results.
SkinPen Patient Video
SkinPen Patient Video
SkinPen David Weir
SkinPen Story
Frequently Asked Questions
HOW DOES MICRONEEDLING WORK?
Microneedling is a form of Collagen Induction Therapy or CIT. The SkinPen Microneedling device rapidly creates a pattern of micro channels in the treatment area that significantly increase the production of collagen and elastin to leave the skin smoother, fresher, and more uniform. Micro channels also create micro injuries which causes the body to send blood and growth factors to the area resulting in glowing, healthy skin.
HOW DOES PRP WORK?
We obtain Platelet-Rich Plasma, or PRP, by drawing a small amount of blood from your arm into a sterile tube. This sample is centrifuged to separate your plasma from your red and white blood cells. Plasma contains high concentration of platelets, stem cells and growth factors. Platelets help your tissue heal and grow new cells.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Microneedling can significantly reduce and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, appearance of enlarged pores, hyper-pigmentation, acne scars, traumatic scars and stretch marks.
When PRP is used with microneedling, the PRP supercharges the microneedling benefits by introducing your own body's growth factors to heal and regenerate cells. Since PRP is derived from your own blood, the side effects are virtually eliminated.
WHAT AREAS CAN I TREAT?
Treatable areas include face (including nose and lips), neck, hand, legs, body, scalp, stretch marks and scars.
HOW LONG DOES THE TREATMENT TAKE?
Topical numbing cream is applied for 30 minutes before the treamtment to minimize any discomfort. The procedure itself takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on the size of the area treated.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
Treatments are typically recommended every 4 weeks initially and then maintenance treatments can be done a few times a year. Some patients only require a single treatment once per year to achieve optimal results. However, it is recommended for most patients to receive a series of 3-4 treatments spaced about 6-8 weeks apart. For patients with deep wrinkles, advanced photo-aging, stretch marks or acne scars it is recommended to receive 6-8 sessions at 6-week intervals.
Your Visit
BEFORE YOUR VISIT
One Week Prior
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Avoid taking medications or supplements that thin the blood—Aspirin, Fish Oil, Vitamin E, and any NSAID’s (Non Steroidal Anti inflammatory agents such as Motrin, Advil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, Naproxen). Please consult with your primary care physician/practitioner prior to discontinuing any medications.
24 Hours Prior
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Do not drink alcohol.
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Avoid caffeine.
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Plan your appointment well in advance and make sure you are not attending a party or a wedding venue for at least 1 week.
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If you develop a cold / flu, cold sore, blemish, or rash, etc. in the area to be treated prior to your appointment, we recommend that you please reschedule your appointment until it resolves.
DAY OF YOUR VISIT
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Please arrive at the office with a "clean face"—makeup-free and washed
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A topical anesthetic or "numbing cream" may be applied to the treatment area to maximize your comfort. Please arrive on time as this process may take anywhere from 15-30 minutes.
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Hydrate.
AFTER YOUR VISIT
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Wash your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser (no exfoliating ingredients or acids such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, etc) a few hours after the treatment. Gently massage your face with tepid water so as to remove all serum and other debris, such as dried blood.
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Gently pat skin dry. Always use clean hands when touching the treated area.
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For the first 1-3 days, the treated area may be red/pink in color, very dry, and feel tight like a sunburn. Remember to apply and frequently reapply provided HA (hyaluronic acid) serum or a gentle moisturizer throughout the day as needed and at night.
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After 2-3 days, or when comfortable, you can return to using your regular skin care products.
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Avoid applying makeup for at least 24 hours after treatment. Do not apply makeup with a makeup brush, sponge, or applicator that might not be clean.
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For warmth, swelling, or discomfort, a cold compress, ice pack, or Tylenol may be used.
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If an antibiotic or antiviral was prescribed for you, please take exactly as directed.
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Peeling and skin flaking are common side effects that occur within 48-96 post treatment. Do not pick, rub, or peel off any skin during this healing process. These actions can result in hyperpigmentation, scarring and/or infection.
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Do not use a Clarisonic or any other scrub brushes during peeling.
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Avoid direct sunlight during the 2-3 days of healing.
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Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until after skin is healed. In addition, limit activity in hot tubs, extremely warm/ hot showers, and saunas.
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After 48 hours, wear SPF 45-50 sunscreen with re-applications every 2 hours. We recommend MDPen SPF 30 sunscreen, or skinbetter science sunscreens - compacts, stick, or lotions (available in tone smart or sheer).
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Avoid alcohol-based toners for 10-14 days.
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Avoid any other facial treatment for 4 weeks.
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Skin Care Regimen Instructions
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AM and PM: Gentle cleanser, serums/creams purchased/used during the procedure.
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(The use of the above recommended products is encouraged.
No guarantee or claim is made to results if an alternative product is used.)
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Warning: If excessive swelling or signs of infection occur, please contact the office immediately. (Moderate swelling immediately post treatment is normal). Signs of infection include:
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Drainage that looks like pus
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Increased warmth and/or redness around the treatment area
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Significant tenderness or pain around the treatment area
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Fever - Temperature of 100.5F or greater