Microneedling is a minimally-invasive cosmetic and therapeutic procedure that is gaining widespread recognition for its ability to rejuvenate the skin, enhance natural healing processes, and address various health and cosmetic concerns. Also referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT) or Percutaneous Collagen Induction (PCI), microneedling has roots in modern dermatology but aligns seamlessly with the holistic healing principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Dr. Rachel Abare, OMD, integrates microneedling into her Oriental Medicine practice in Reno, Nevada, utilizing her own herbal serums, and offering this innovative therapy alongside TCM treatments including acupuncture, cupping, and Gua Sha to help her patients achieve comprehensive wellness and health. Call 775-548-6949 to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Rachel Abare today.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling involves the use of a device equipped with fine, sterilized needles that create tiny, controlled micro-injuries on the surface of the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, encouraging the production of collagen and elastin—proteins essential for maintaining skin elasticity, firmness, and smoothness.
This procedure targets the deeper layers of the skin (the dermis) while leaving the epidermis largely intact, ensuring both efficacy and minimal downtime. The micro-channels created during microneedling also enhance the absorption of topical serums, amplifying their effectiveness. Dr. Abare takes this one step further by utilizing custom-formulated Traditional Chinese Medicine serums tailored to her patients’ specific skin and health needs.
What is Microneedling Known By?
Microneedling is known by several other names across medical and cosmetic fields, reflecting its diverse applications:
- Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT)
- Percutaneous Collagen Induction (PCI)
- Skin Needling
- Derma Rolling (when performed using a roller device)
- Micro-Channeling Therapy
These terms highlight its dual purpose: as both a cosmetic procedure, and a medical treatment for improving skin health – thereby addressing deeper health concerns.
The Conditions Microneedling Treats
Microneedling has a wide range of applications due to its ability to stimulate the body’s natural repair mechanisms. It is commonly used to address:
Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-Aging
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sagging skin
- Dull or uneven skin tone
- Enlarged pores
Acne and Scar Management
- Acne scars (atrophic scars)
- Surgical or traumatic scars
- Stretch marks
Pigmentation Issues
- Hyperpigmentation
- Melasma
- Sunspots and age spots
Hair Loss (Alopecia)
- Stimulates dormant hair follicles to promote regrowth
Skin Conditions
- Rosacea
- Keratosis pilaris
How is Microneedling Most Commonly Performed?
Microneedling can be performed manually or with specialized devices, such as motorized pens or dermal rollers. The process typically involves the following steps:
- Initial Consultation and Skin Assessment
A professional consultation is essential to determine the patient’s skin concerns, medical history, and goals. Dr. Rachel Abare conducts thorough assessments to customize treatments, ensuring optimal results and patient satisfaction. - Preparation
The treatment area is cleansed, and a topical anesthetic is applied to minimize discomfort. Once the skin is numbed, Dr. Abare selects a micro-needling device and needle depth suitable for the patient’s specific needs. - Microneedling Process
Using a micro-needling pen or roller, tiny punctures are created across the targeted area in a systematic pattern. This process stimulates collagen production while promoting blood circulation. - Application of Serums or Healing Solutions
Immediately after micro-needling, the skin is highly receptive to topical treatments. Dr. Abare applies her custom TCM serums, which may include herbal extracts designed to enhance healing, reduce inflammation, and promote radiant skin. - Post-Treatment Care
Patients are advised to avoid sun exposure, heavy makeup, and harsh skincare products for a few days. Redness and slight swelling are normal and typically subside within 24-48 hours.
For best results, microneedling is often performed as a series of treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
Microneedling and Traditional Chinese Medicine
What sets Dr. Rachel Abare’s microneedling practice apart is her integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine principles. Unlike conventional approaches that focus solely on the skin’s surface, Dr. Abare’s methods address the root causes of skin and health issues, promoting balance within the body. Her custom herbal serums are formulated based on centuries-old TCM knowledge, combining modern science with holistic healing.
Additionally, patients receiving micro-needling can also benefit from complementary therapies like acupuncture, cupping, and Gua Sha, which Dr. Abare offers as part of her comprehensive TCM practice. These treatments work synergistically to enhance blood flow, release tension, and support the body’s natural healing processes.
Choose Microneedling with Dr Rachel Abare
Dr. Rachel Abare’s expertise in both Traditional Chinese Medicine and microneedling ensures a holistic, patient-centered approach to skincare and wellness. By combining state-of-the-art micro-needling techniques with the therapeutic power of acupuncture and other TCM modalities, she delivers results that go beyond the superficial, addressing the body, mind, and spirit.
Whether patients are seeking to improve their skin’s appearance, reduce scars, or promote overall health, Dr. Abare’s micro-needling treatments provide a safe and effective pathway to rejuvenation. Her personalized care and dedication to her patients’ well-being make her one of the premier providers of micro-needling and holistic health services in the Reno, Nevada area.
Microneedling is a transformative therapy that offers far-reaching benefits for skin rejuvenation, scar reduction, and overall health. When performed by a skilled practitioner like Dr. Rachel Abare, it becomes a powerful tool not just for cosmetic improvement but also for promoting deeper wellness. Coupled with Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments such as acupuncture, cupping, and Gua Sha, micro-needling under Dr. Abare’s care offers patients a truly holistic approach to achieving radiant skin and balanced health.
Microneedling Reference Sources
the following sources provide authoritative details about the procedure, its benefits, risks, and applications:
- Cleveland Clinic highlights microneedling as a procedure useful for cosmetic and medical purposes, including treating wrinkles, scars, and skin discoloration. They emphasize the importance of consulting experienced healthcare providers and discuss potential risks such as scarring and infection. Cleveland Clinic
- Verywell Health elaborates on microneedling’s effectiveness for skin rejuvenation, pigmentation issues like melasma and vitiligo, and even hair loss. They stress that professional treatments deliver better outcomes compared to at-home devices and provide guidance on contraindications. Verywell Health
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) explains micro-needling’s role in stimulating collagen production, detailing its applications in reducing fine lines, improving skin texture, and treating scars. They underscore the importance of seeking board-certified dermatologists for safe and effective treatments references are excellent starting points for anyone considering micro-needling, ensuring access to scientifically supported and expert-vetted information.
These resources are valuable for understanding both the science and clinical applications of micro-needling. They cater to professionals and patients interested in its therapeutic and cosmetic benefits. Here are some credible, published sources on the topic:
- MDPI’s “Recent Advances in Microneedling-Assisted Cosmetic Applications”: This peer-reviewed article provides a detailed overview of the cosmetic applications of micro-needling, including its use for acne scars, skin rejuvenation, and the delivery of active cosmetic agents like hyaluronic acid and retinoids. It highlights advancements in microneedle technology, such as fabricated patches, and discusses safety concerns like skin irritation and infection risks. Published in Cosmetics journal in 2024, this article is comprehensive and up-to-date. MDPI
- Cureus Journal: “Microneedling in Dermatology: A Comprehensive Review”: This review covers the mechanisms, techniques, and outcomes of micro-needling in dermatology. It explores how micro-needling stimulates collagen production through controlled micro-injuries, addressing conditions like acne scars, pigmentation, and stretch marks. It also delves into combined treatments with topical agents to enhance results. Read: Microneedling in Dermatology.