Microneedling in Oakland

Are you looking for a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your skin? Consider microneedling, a popular cosmetic procedure that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and other skin imperfections. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, microneedling was one of the top five minimally invasive cosmetic procedures performed in the US in 2020, with over 862,000 procedures performed. A survey by RealSelf found that 85% of people who had microneedling said it was "worth it" and would recommend it to others.

At our Oakland-based studio, we offer microneedling services performed by licensed and experienced professionals. Our state-of-the-art equipment and customized treatment plans ensure that each client receives the best possible results. Whether you're looking to restore a youthful glow to your skin or address specific areas of concern, our microneedling services can help you achieve your beauty goals.

How Does Microneedling Work?

Microneedling (sometimes known as micro needling) is a minimally invasive skin treatment that uses an automated needling device. It involves creating tiny punctures in the skin using a device equipped with small, sterile needles. The procedure is also known as collagen induction therapy and is used to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and other skin imperfections. 

If you're interested in microneedling, it's important to find a reputable and licensed professional to perform the procedure. At Studio Noir, microneedling is offered by Liane Vieira, Licensed Aesthetician, Certified Clinical Aesthetician, Licensed Tattooer in Alameda County, who also holds a Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control Certificate. 

Before you get started, ask your practitioner any questions you may have about microneedling, such as:

  • Are there risks or side effects?

  • Does microneedling hurt?

  • How soon will I see results?

  • Is there downtime after the procedure?

  • Will I need more than one treatment?

About a month before treatment, your provider may ask you to apply vitamin A or C cream to your skin. These creams can help start the process of collagen production.

Who Can Try Microneedling?

Microneedling is a safe and effective cosmetic procedure for most people who want to improve the appearance of their skin. However, there are some factors to consider before trying microneedling:

Skin type: Microneedling is generally safe for all skin types, but it may not be suitable for people with certain skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or active acne.

Overall health: People who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, may not be good candidates for microneedling. It's important to discuss any health concerns with your provider before undergoing the procedure.

Medications: Some medications, such as blood thinners, may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising after microneedling. Be sure to inform your provider of any medications you are taking.

Pregnancy or breastfeeding: It's generally recommended to avoid microneedling during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Recent skin treatments: People who have had certain skin treatments, such as laser resurfacing or chemical peels, may need to wait a certain amount of time before undergoing microneedling.

Age: While microneedling is generally safe for adults of all ages, it may not be suitable for children or teenagers.

It's important to consult with a licensed professional to determine if microneedling is the right choice for your individual needs and skin concerns. Your provider can assess your skin type, overall health, and other factors to determine if microneedling is a safe and appropriate treatment option for you.

A full list of contraindications can be found here.

What Skin Concerns Does Microneedling Treat?

Microneedling improves the appearance of aging skin and can also act as a preventative measure for the first signs of aging. Microneedling is an effective way of treating:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Acne scars

  • Stretch marks

  • Uneven skin tone and texture

  • Hyperpigmentation and dark spots

  • Sun damage

  • Enlarged pores

  • Dull or tired-looking skin

What Can I Expect During My Microneedling Treatment?

Topical anesthetic is applied to clean and exfoliated skin and left for 25-30 minutes. After the anesthetic is removed, a hyaluronic acid serum will be applied to help the machine glide easily over skin. The needling itself typically feels like a slight vibration. The tiny needles attached to the machine will penetrate through the skin, but not remove it. Since your skin will only be punctured and the epidermis will be left intact, it will heal quickly. The punctures will create a pin-point bleeding and allow the professional product to be absorbed a lot faster and deeper than just placing it on top of the skin. The product combined with your body’s own collagen induction yield the smooth, plump, tight results. After the needling, (typically takes 30 minutes depending on area(s) being treated) a sheet masque containing a proprietary blend of adult stem cells and other active ingredients can be placed on the skin post-treatment to further enhance results. (Check the masque add-on button when booking if desired.) Your microneedling treatment will last approximately 1.5 hours from start to finish. Skin may be red for 1-3 days after depending on your skin type, tone, and aggressiveness of treatment. 

What Is Microneedling After Care Like?

After the procedure, it's important to take proper care of your skin to promote healing and minimize the risk of side effects. Here are some general microneedling aftercare tips:

  • You should expect redness and slight swelling to the area. This will subside within a day or two. 

  • Tiny pinpoint scabs will appear 24-72 hours post-treatment and may remain 3-7 days following. Do not scratch, pick, or scrub. They will naturally shed off when ready. 

  • During the next 48 hours post-treatment, you should avoid working out, hot showers, massages, and sun exposure. 

  • Do not apply makeup for 24-72 hours. 

  • You can apply moisturizer. 

  • Do not shave 1-2 days post treatment while your skin is healing. 

  • Apply SPF 30+ when leaving the house. (Don’t forget to reapply!) Failure to do so may result in hyperpigmentation.

What is the Cost of Microneedling?

Microneedling costs vary due to the methods and product used, as well as the practitioner. The average cost of Microneedling is $250-800 per session. Please check our current pricing on my booking page.

How Many Treatments Will I Need to See Results?

Treatments vary depending on the condition of the skin. Upon consultation, your microneedling provider will explain what course of action is best for you. Typically, we recommend between 3-6 sessions with 4-6 weeks in between sessions and then touch-ups 2-3 times a year after that.


H2: Microneedling Pre-Care

Proper pre-care can help ensure the best results and minimize the risk of complications from microneedling. Here are some tips for microneedling pre-care:

  • No use of retinoids, topical antibiotics, exfoliants, alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA), beta hydroxyl acid (BHA), salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and benzoyl peroxide acne products for at least 5-7 days prior. You must be off Accutane for at least 6 months before doing this treatment.

  • Do not take any anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, Aleve for 1 week prior to the procedure. These medications will affect the natural inflammatory process that is critical and responsible for your skin rejuvenation.

  • Avoid IPL/Laser procedures, unprotected sun exposure or sunburn for 2 weeks before the procedure.

  • Do not use waxing, depilatory creams or electrolysis on the area being treated for 5-7 days prior.

  • No shaving the day of the procedure to avoid skin irritation.

  • If you are prone to cold sores, take an antiviral agent for 2 days prior to and day-of treatment.

  • Avoid all blood-thinning agents a week before procedure. (Fish oil, Omega-3, Vitamin E). May resume day after treatment.

Day of Treatment

Please arrive with clean skin. No lotion/moisturizer, oil, makeup, powder, perfume or SPF, plant-based or otherwise.

After cleansing, use a manual (scrub) or chemical (enzyme) exfoliant of your choice before coming in for treatment. This is not a good time to try a new product. If you don’t have a preferred product for exfoliation, do the method outlined below for sensitive skin.  If you have a sensitive skin type, scrub skin gently after cleansing with warm washcloth in circular motions around the face/being treated for 3-5 minutes in lieu of using a scrub or enzyme. 

Topical lidocaine will be applied for 25-30 minutes prior to treatment.