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MicroNeedling – Healing damaged skin

Reasons to consider Microneedling

  • Any inflammatory reaction usually resolves the day after treatment.
  • There is a reduced incidence of keloid (over scaring) creation
  • Lightens sunspots
  • Scar repair from acne and burns. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5],[6]
  • Supports hair re-growth, especially if when added to drug therapy such as Rogaine / Minoxidil.[7],[8],[9]
  • Creates tighter, firmer, more radiant skin

Reduced Acne Scaring.

Hair re-growth. 40 year old man who was not satisfied with conventional treatment. Images below follow progress with addition of Microneedling at 1 month (a), 3 months (b), and 6 months (c).

References: Acne Scars

[1] https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/microneedling-may-provide-alternative-lasers

[2] Gozali MV, Zhou B. Effective treatments of atrophic acne scars. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2015;8(5):33-40.

[3] El-Domyati M, Barakat M, Awad S, Medhat W, El-Fakahany H, Farag H. Microneedling Therapy for Atrophic Acne Scars: An Objective Evaluation. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2015;8(7):36-42.

[4] Chilicka K, Rusztowicz M, Szygu?a R, Nowicka D. Methods for the Improvement of Acne Scars Used in Dermatology and Cosmetology: A Review. J Clin Med. 2022;11(10):2744. Published 2022 May 12. doi:10.3390/jcm11102744

[5] Tirmizi SS, Iqbal T, Mansoor M, et al. Role of Microneedling in Atrophic Post-Acne Scars: An Experience from a Tertiary Care Hospital. Cureus. 2021;13(1):e12578. Published 2021 Jan 8. doi:10.7759/cureus.12578

[6] Busch KH, Aliu A, Walezko N, Aust M. Medical Needling: Effect on Skin Erythema of Hypertrophic Burn Scars. Cureus. 2018;10(9):e3260. Published 2018 Sep 6. doi:10.7759/cureus.3260

References: Hair Loss

[7] Dhurat R, Mathapati S. Response to Microneedling Treatment in Men with Androgenetic Alopecia Who Failed to Respond to Conventional Therapy. Indian J Dermatol. 2015;60(3):260-263. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.156361

[8] Kumar MK, Inamadar AC, Palit A. A Randomized Controlled, Single-Observer Blinded Study to Determine the Efficacy of Topical Minoxidil plus Microneedling versus Topical Minoxidil Alone in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2018;11(4):211-216. doi:10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_130_17

[9] Wall D, Meah N, Fagan N, York K, Sinclair R. Advances in hair growth. Fac Rev. 2022;11:1. Published 2022 Jan 12. doi:10.12703/r/11-1

Micro Needling and Nano Needling

For more beautiful skin

What is Micro Needling?

Micro Needling, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy, is a minimally invasive procedure that allows for controlled induction of growth factor serums, or hyaluronic acid, into the skins self-repair process by creating micro injuries in the skin. These injuries stimulate new collagen production, while not posing the risk of permanent scaring.

Results may include improved skin tone, skin texture; firmness; and reduction in scars, sunspots, pore size, and possibly stretch marks.

During Micro Needling the top layer of the skin remains intact, unlike skin peels.

What is Nano Needling?

Nano Needling can be received once weekly to supplement the Micro Needling treatment, support absorption of beneficial serums, and to support exfoliation.

Nano needling is used in areas of thinner skin, such as the area around the eyes.  

Beneficial Facial Serums

Micro Needling may increase the skin’s ability to utilize the nutrients by up to 3,000 %.

During the Micro Needling and Nano Needling treatment, one or more serums may be applied to the skin. These serums are formulated to nourish and hydrate the skin.

Some of the serums used include:

  • Hyaluronic Acid is found naturally in the skin. It forms a gel like substance when combined with water and is helpful to fill out wrinkles. It is also involved in wound healing. Hyaluronic acid may be applied to your skin and it the base for many of the beneficial serums used.
  • Apple Stem Cells. This serum is used to rejuvenate the skin cells to act more like they did in youth.  The result may include reduced  wrinkle/line formation, more tight skin, and more glowing skin.
  • Other serums using herbal formulas are designed to reduce age and sunspots.

The needling procedure helps to drive the serums into the skin.  After treatment your skin is more open to absorb 24 hours after treatment. You will be sent home with serums to enhance your treatment.

FAQ

What conditions may be improved?

Micro and Nano Needling may help improve:

  • Skin tone
  • Skin texture
  • Skin Firmness
  • Wrinkles
  • Sunspots
  • Scar tissue
  • Pore size
  • Hair growth

How do I prepare prior to my Micro Needling session? 

  • Do not wear makeup to the session or be prepared to remove your make up prior to your session.
  • Allow 24 hours after your session to avoid direct sunlight, wind, dust.
  • Be prepared that your face may look red and/or dry after your session.

Are the needles re-used?

Each treatment uses new, sterile needles. After treatment, these needles are then properly disposed.

Does it hurt?

Micron Needling may be painful or induce a tickling sensation, depending on how deep the needles are inserted.

Pain usually resolves after the treatment, but redness may take 24 hours to resolve.

How deep do the needles go?

The Micro Needling pen can be set to penetrate skin from 0.5-2.5 mm deep.

Nano Needles penetrate the top 0.15 mm layer of skin.

How long is a treatment

Treatments usually last 30 minutes.

What results can I expect from the treatment?

Initially, the skin may remain red and dry for approximately 24 hours after a treatment.

The skin heals by producing more fibroblasts and collagen. This process helps “plump up” the skin and fill in wrinkles. As the skin heals itself and produces more collagen and fibroblasts to create smoother, firmer, and younger looking skin.

It may take 2-4 months of treatment to see the effects desired.

Are there side effects?

  • Skin will be pink or red and may feel warm, like mild sunburn, tight and itchy, which usually subside in 12 to 24 hours
  • Minor flaking or dryness of the skin, with scab formation in rare cases. 
  • Crusting, discomfort, bruising and swelling may occur.
  • Pinpoint bleeding.
  • It is possible to have a cold sore flare if you have a history of outbreaks.
  • Freckles may lighten temporarily or permanently disappear in treated areas.
  • Infection is rare but if you see any signs of tender redness or puss notify our office immediately.
  • Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) rarely occurs and usually resolves itself after a month.
  • Permanent scarring (less than 1%) is extremely rare.

How often can I receive Micro Needling? 

Micro Needling is recommended no more than once monthly to allow skin to repair and improve.

How often can I receive Nano Needling? 

Nano Needling can be obtained weekly to supplement the benefits of Micro Needling.

Who should NOT get Micro or Nano Needling.

The following conditions may be a contra indication for Micro Needling or Nano Needling.  Please discuss your condition with the physician before signing up for this procedure.

  • Keloid or raised scarring
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Use of blood thinners/anti coagulants (ie, Coumadin, Warfarin)
  • Elevated blood pressure
  • Immune disorders that prevent adequate tissue healing
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Actinic keratosis
  • Non active herpes simplex

Absolute Contraindications. Individuals with the following conditions or treatment should not be treated with Micro or Nano needling.

  • Accutane within last 6 months of desired treatment
  • Scleroderma
  • Collagen vascular disease
  • Cardiac abnormalities
  • Rosacea
  • Uncontrolled blood clotting problem
  • Platelet abnormalities
  • Facial cancer, past and present
  • Chemotherapy
  • Steroid therapy
  • Dermatological diseases affecting the face (i.e. Porphyria)
  • Uncontrolled Diabetes and other chronic conditions
  • Active bacterial or fungal infections
  • Immune suppression conditions or treatment
  • Scars less then 6 months old
  • Botox/facial fillers in the past 2-4 weeks.
  • Silicone antibody disease, silicone allergy or silicone sensitivity
  • Pregnancy, Nursing

Research

  • Wall D, Meah N, Fagan N, York K, Sinclair R. Advances in hair growth. Fac Rev. 2022 Jan 12;11:1. doi: 10.12703/r/11-1. PMID: 35156098; PMCID: PMC8808739.C
  • Chilicka K, Rusztowicz M, Szygu?a R, Nowicka D. Methods for the Improvement of Acne Scars Used in Dermatology and Cosmetology: A Review. J Clin Med. 2022;11(10):2744. Published 2022 May 12. doi:10.3390/jcm11102744
  • El-Domyati M, Barakat M, Awad S, Medhat W, El-Fakahany H, Farag H. Microneedling Therapy for Atrophic Acne Scars: An Objective Evaluation. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2015 Jul;8(7):36-42. PMID: 26203319; PMCID: PMC4509584.
  • Fabbrocini G, Fardella N, Monfrecola A, Proietti I, Innocenzi D (2009) Acne scarring treatment using skin needling. Clin Exp Dermatol 34: 874-879.
  • Fabbrocini G, Annunziata MC, D’Arco V, De Vita V, Lodi G, Mauriello MC, Pastore F, Monfrecola G (2010) Acne scars: Pathogenesis, classification, and treatment. Dermatol Res Pract 2010: 893080.
  • Fife D (2011) Practical evaluation and management of atrophic acne scars. Tips for the general dermatologist. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol 4: 550-57.
  • Goodman G (2003) Post acne scarring: a review. J Cosmet Laser Ther 5: 77-95.
  • Goodman GJ, Baron JA (2006) Post acne scarring: a qualitative global scarring grading system. Dermatol Surg 32: 1458-1466.
  • Jacob CI, Dover JS, Kaminer MS (2001) Acne scarring: a classification system and review of treatment options. J Am Acad Dermatol 45: 109-117.
  • Leheta TM, Abdel Hay RM, Hegazy RA, El Garem YF (2012) Do combined alternating sessions of 1540 nm nonablative fractional laser and percutaneous collagen induction with trichloroacetic acid 20% show better results than each individual modality in the treatment of atrophic acne scars? A randomized controlled trial. J Dermatolog Treat epub ahead of print.
  • Leheta TM, Abdel Hay RM, El Garem YF (2012) Deep peeling using phenol versus percutaneous collagen induction combined with trichloroacetic acid20 in atrophic post-acne scars: a randomized controlled trial. J Dermatology Treat epub ahead of print.
  • Leheta T, El Tawdy A, Abdel Hay R, Farid S (2011) Percutaneous collagen induction versus full-concentration trichloroacetic acid in thetreatmentofatrophicacnescars. DermatolSurg37:207-216.
  • Levy LL, Zeichner JA (2012) Management of acne scarring, Part II: A comparative review of non-laser based, minimally invasive approaches. Am J Clin Dermatol 13:331-340.
  • Shah SK, Alexis AF (2010) Acne in skin of color: practical approaches to treatment. J Dermatolog Treat 21:206-2

ProActive Breast Health

Breast cancer has become a potentially survivable disease, but it remains the second leading cause of death for women (heart disease is slightly higher) and the leading cause of death for Hispanic women. Breast cancer can occur at any age, but prevalence increases with age. Breast cancer rates increase starting at age 30 and then again at age 40.

Breast Cancer in Men.  It is important to remember that men also have small amount of breast tissue under the nipples, including fatty tissue, ducts, and lymph nodes. Male breast tissue can increase during adolescence and adulthood, especially for men over 50.  1 out of 100 diagnosed breast cancers occur in men. (https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/men/index.htm)

Reducing cancer risks

The Center for Disease control has suggestions to reduce the risks of breast cancer including:

  • Maintain a healthy weight and exercising regularly.
  • Avoid or limit alcohol.
  • If taking oral hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills, consult with your doctor about your level of risk factors
  • Learn about the BRCA gene risk factors.[ii] This is important for both women and men.

Additional Proactive Lifestyle Choices

Chose plastic alternatives as much as possible. Plastic compounds such as phthalates are linked to hormone disruption and may be linked to breast cancer. Plastic containers or plastic wrap may leach chemicals into food and liquids.  The more flexible the plastic, the more leaching occurs.

Apply Healthy. Know what is in your personal care products.  Click HERE to learn more about common toxic chemicals and how to avoid them. Skin applications of cosmetics, lotions, and perfumes can contain chemicals that are absorbed through the skin. Repetitive application of products containing chemicals may cause cellular toxicity over time.

Plastic Alternatives

  • Reusable silicone bags: sandwich bags
  • Pyrex-like glass containers: Leftover food storage:
  • Glass or stainless-steel bottles: water bottles
  • Dr. Rodgers does not endorse any specific products or companies, but This Article is helpful to see what the market has to offer in plastic product alternatives.

Relaxation. Constant stress can cause an increase in inflammation and blood sugars. Laughter, relaxation, meditation, yoga, and healthy sleep patterns can help reduce cortisol levels and maintain a healthier you.

Avoid synthetic Fragrance.  A full ingredient list is usually not included under the term “Fragrance”.  There may be dozens of chemicals not listed on the label.  Some products do disclose when referring fragrance as essential oils. If you are not sure what is in the product, leave the product on the shelf, or see the next point below.

Know your ingredients. The Breast Cancer Prevention Partners has a great page to help you decipher what those chemical names are.  Click HERE to learn more about common toxic chemicals and how to avoid them.

Choose organic foods and Be vigilant of other daily exposures to chemicals. Simple solutions can be found at Easy ways to maintain a healthy home and reduce your exposure to chemicals

Move daily. You may already be doing more exercise than you think. The key to exercise is to move in any way you can. Cleaning the house, walking the dog, mowing the lawn, or chopping wood may not be part of a hard-core exercise program, but they do contribute to moving. The key to exercise is to move your whole body daily. If you don’t like to exercise, consider the concept of moving and figure out what activities you can do in your day that make you move more.

Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines  The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends breast cancer screening.

  • Women 50-74 years old with average risk for cancer: mammogram every 2 years.
  • Women less than 40-49 or those with higher risk of cancer should discuss screening schedules with their primary physician.
  • Other medical organizations have different but similar guidelines. Click HERE to see guidelines.

[i] https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/prevention.htm

[ii]https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/young_women/bringyourbrave/hereditary_breast_cancer/brca_gene_mutations.htm

[i] https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/index.htm

[ii]https://gis.cdc.gov/Cancer/USCS/#/Prevalence/

[iii] https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/men/index.htm

Wheel of Health Immune Basics

Each piece contributes to health.

How many pieces are strong in your life?

   Strengthen HealthWeaken Health
ExerciseExercise 5-6 x per week, at least 30 minutes. Find activities that you like to do. Exercise to the level you are not exhausted immediately or hours after your activity.Sit all day without breaks.
SleepGo to bed at the same time nightly. Obtain 8 hours sleep/night
Strategies if sleep disturbance occurs.		Go to bed after midnight. Use electronics and screens in the bedroom.
DietEat colors of the rainbow in fruits/vegetables daily. Eat organic foods.   Drink clean, filtered water. Choose immune supportive foods. Identify and avoid food sensitivities.Fast foods food, processed foods. Colors, additives, preservatives. Partially hydrogenated oils. Sugary foods. Drink pop/cola, sugary drinks.
Social InteractionsSpend time with friends and loved ones.Continue toxic relationships. Isolate oneself.
Relaxation/SpiritFind quiet time daily such as with prayer, meditation, yoga, tai chi, etc. Mindful Breathing.   Find ways to minimize stress. [i]Fill the day with screens and external, busy, and loud influences.
DetoxificationReduce toxins in your home.  Avoid Fragrance and other personal care toxins.. Make your home a healthy sanctuary. Avoid EMF exposure. Consider HEPA air filtration. Avoid pesticides inside and outside home. Consider a guided detoxification program.  Choose synthetic fragrance in personal care products, candle. Apply insecticides and herbicides in and around the home.    Wi-Fi in the home.
SupplementationChoose quality supplements. Choose targeted immune support supplements. Handout:  Staying Healthy during the Cold and Flu Season and Wet Sock technique.Caffeinated products.

[i] Morey, J et al. Curr Opin Psychol. 2015 Oct 1; 5: 13–17. doi: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2015.03.007

Will you get Vaccinated?

The Covid Vaccine is finally here. Click HERE for Idaho and HERE for Oregon to determine if you are eligible for the vaccine now.

Recently, I’ve been answering questions about the vaccine and if people should get vaccinated.

First, let me reveal that I decided to get vaccinated. The first shot was painless, but my arm did hurt for a day. I suffered no other side effects.

The biggest benefit of these vaccines is the head start they give our immune systems to combat the virus before symptoms arise. The two FDA approved vaccines (Moderna and Pfizer) have 94-95% effectiveness after 2 doses are provided. This means that, in clinical trials, vaccinated individuals had 95% less risk than control group participants of developing symptoms or being tested positive for the virus. The Johnson and Johnson vaccine is also currently FDA approved; it has 66% effectiveness after one dose.

Importantly, no participants in any of the 3 vaccine vaccinated groups needed to be hospitalized or died from Covid-19 after the vaccine took full affect. Even one dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines showed protectiveness against serious illness 6-7 weeks after one dose. Read an article about these vaccines HERE.

Because the Covid-19 virus is here to stay, including with new variants, we will need to remain vigilant and compliant about social distancing and wearing masks, even after being vaccinated. Another reason to stay vigilant about masking is that current vaccinations have not been tested on children and infection rates are climbing in the pediatric population.

In my assessment, vaccination is probably one of the major tools that will allow us to reduce chronic illness, hospitalization, and death from Covid-19.

Who should NOT get the vaccine: Anyone who has significant reactions to the ingredients, specifically polyethylene glycol. One other nice thing about the vaccine is that, unlike many traditional vaccines, it is NOT grown on eggs. To read more about the currently approved vaccines, please read my article HERE.

For more fun, a February 20, 2021 New York Times interactive article provides some insight on when we may get to herd immunity and reduce mortality, depending on vaccination rates and preventative measures. See article HERE. Be sure to play with the interactive tabs!

Resources for Helping Children Cope During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Prepared by Kelsy Newton, Psy.D.

St. Luke’s Children’s Neuro- and Behavioral Psychology

Books:

  • Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child by John Gottman
  • How to Talk so Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talkby Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish
  • The Self-Compassion Workbook for Teens: Mindfulness and Compassion Skills to Overcome Self-Criticism and Embrace Who You Are by Karen Bluth, PhD
  • Self-Compassion for Parents: Nurture Your Child by Caring for Yourself by Susan Pollak
  • Mindful Games for Kids by Kristina Marcelli-Sargent

Apps:

  • Smiling Mind: Free mindful app developed by psychologists and educators
  • Breathe App: free app for phone or watch that will guide inhalation and exhalation.
  • Breathe Kids: has both a free and subscription version and includes kid friendly mediation/relaxation videos
  • Headspace: requires subscription fee but offers a library of guided mediations
  • Calm: subscription fee required and included a variety of mediations and sleep stories

Websites/Videos: