Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Derma Rolling - Roll Back the Years

DIY Derma Rolling is an easy, at-home skin care treatment. Easy to perform, easy to tolerate, easy to recover. The device is a hand held roller with hundreds of very sharp, tiny embedded needles (medical grade stainless steel). The directions are simple . . . gently roll the device back and forth over the skin horizontally, vertically and diagonally. Slight pin pricks are felt as the roller passes over the skin, but puncturing the surface of the skin and drawing blood should be avoided. While there is no downtime with the DIY version of Derma Rolling, it is a different story when performed by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Percutaneous Collagen Induction (PCI), or Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT) is a much more intense treatment using a derma roller with longer needles. There is an expected downtime of a week, or so, while the skin heals from the tiny punctures and redness. Obviously, the results with professional treatments are more profound. According to the Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, "a considerable deposit of collagen and elastin in the skin six months post treatment, as well as a 40% increase in the thickness of the epidermis, was noted." The DIY treatment may be slower to show results, but the skin will definitely show an improvement over time.

How does this work? The concept is based upon the theory that damaged skin will automatically kick itself into gear and begin a natural, rejuvenating healing process. A derma rolling treatment opens up tiny micro-channels in the epidermis triggering collagen and elastin production, kicking up cell regeneration, assisting in product absorption, and smoothing out the texture of the skin. The benefits of this treatment include skin firming (minimal), reduced appearance of fine wrinkles, reduction in scarring, brightening of lackluster skin, and a boost in the overall complexion. With no negative side effects, this treatment is a perfect way to roll back the years.