Microchanneling: What It Is and How It Works

Microchanneling is the latest collagen induction treatment, triggering your body’s innate healing processes to deliver transformative results. It’s a safe and effective modality that’s become a go-to for both corrective and preventative skin care. Join us for a guide to microchanneling!

What is microchanneling?

Also known as collagen induction therapy, microchanneling treatment is a non-invasive or minimally invasive procedure used to combat signs of aging and support overall skin rejuvenation. 

How does microchanneling work?

Microchanneling treatments create microscopic injuries in the skin, which trigger a controlled inflammatory response and tell your body to create new collagen and elastin in the area. It’s a powerful anti-aging tool that supports cellular regeneration for healthy, younger-looking skin. 

How do you prep for an appointment?

One or two weeks before your microchanneling session, stop using lasers, wax, chemical peels, and harsh skincare products like retinoids and acids in the treatment area. Avoid sun exposure, and wear a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen each day. As your appointment approaches, prioritize hydration and limit alcohol and caffeine. On the day of your session, arrive with clean, makeup-free skin. 

Microchanneling vs microneedling

While these terms are often used interchangeably, microchanneling is an advanced, refined form of microneedling. This modernized approach uses a pen-like device with super-fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin and kickstart your body’s natural healing mechanisms. On the other hand, microneedling often uses derma rollers and other tools that lack the precision of a microchanneling device.

Related: Can You Get Microneedling Under the Eyes?

Benefits of microchanneling

When it comes to skin renewal and revitalization, it’s hard to beat microchanneling. Here are some of the benefits that keep clients coming back for more:

Improves skin texture and tone

The needling process encourages faster cell turnover to smooth rough patches and soften uneven skin tone. It helps you shed outer layers of dead skin cells, revealing a smoother, more even, radiant complexion. 

Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

By stimulating collagen production and speeding up cellular regeneration, microneedling can minimize fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful glow. While regular sessions can correct signs of aging over time, they can also help prevent the formation of wrinkles by thickening the dermis and maintaining optimal collagen levels throughout the aging process. 

Diminishes scarring

Microchanneling is an effective treatment for acne scars and stretch marks. It can break down scar tissue and trigger the development of healthy, youthful skin cells. Consider adding platelet-rich plasma or growth factors to your treatment for even more transformative results. 

Reduces hyperpigmentation

Sun damage, melasma, and hyperpigmentation are easy targets for microchanneling. Thanks to enhanced cellular regeneration and a boost of healing collagen, it’s a great way to even out skin tone. Moreover, this treatment can improve product absorption, helping your skin effectively utilize topical ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide for even faster results. 

Improves skin elasticity

Along with enhanced collagen and elastin comes a boost in skin elasticity. These connective tissues give your skin a firm, bouncy appearance and plump up deflated-looking skin. 

Enhances skin hydration

The combined effects of collagen production, product absorption, and enhanced circulation support the skin’s moisture barrier, helping you lock in hydration for a dewy, supple glow. You can make the most of this benefit by incorporating microchanneling alongside hyaluronic acid serum, stem cell therapy, peptides, and other nourishing ingredients.

Related: How Microneedling Can Change Your Skin for the Better

What to expect from microchanneling

Ready to reinvigorate your skin and transform your complexion? Here’s what you can expect from microneedling treatments: 

How long do microchanneling results last?

Unlike other facial treatments that only deliver short-term results, the effects of microchanneling can continue revealing themselves for up to six months. That’s because your body will generate more collagen and elastin long after you leave the treatment room. While you may notice the initial impact within a few days, the cumulative effects will compound over time. 

How often can you do microchanneling?

On average, most clients achieve long-lasting results with an initial treatment series of four to six sessions every four to six weeks. Some start with more frequent appointments before scaling back to treatments every six to eight weeks. Occasional touch-up sessions can help you maintain your results indefinitely. 

Are there any downsides to microchanneling?

Microchanneling can be slightly uncomfortable, but your esthetician may be able to offer a numbing cream before treatment to make the sensation more tolerable. Side effects include redness, swelling, and sensitivity that generally resolve within a few days.

Microchanneling may not be suitable for all skin types and conditions, such as active acne breakouts. In these cases, a gentle alternative like hydrodermabrasion may help you achieve similar results over time.

Related: HydroGlow Facial: Perfected Hydrodermabrasion Treatment

Enhance your skincare routine at MOOD Skin & Body!

At MOOD Skin & Body, we offer a comprehensive suite of skincare services to help you reach your goals. From microchanneling to waxing treatments, we strive to help every client feel great in their own skin. Book an appointment today to get started!