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Lifestyle

Microneedling: Benefits, Facts and FAQs

March 26, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

Woman receiving microneedling treatment

The benefits of microneedling are more than just skin deep. This collagen boosting, wrinkle reducing needle facial treatment is a favorite among dermatologists and skin enthusiasts alike.

The multi-purpose skin saver has been around since the mid-90s, but lately, it’s all anyone is talking about. If you follow any beauty bloggers or social media (sk)influencers, you’ve probably seen some posts about the (mostly) painless procedure.

Today, we’re here to needle you with questions and answers about what microneedling is and what microneedling does for your skin.

How Does Microneedling Work? 

So what is microneedling anyway? The procedure, also known as collagen induction therapy, is the process of using a small mechanical device or handheld dermaroller filled with very fine needles to create micro punctures in the skin.

Still wondering how microneedling works to keep you looking younger? The tiny “injuries” created from the needles are nothing more than pinpricks on the skin’s surface. Yet they suggest your skin produce more collagen and elastin to heal the “wound”. Thus, more youthful bouncy skin.

Microneedling side effects are practically non-existent, the process can be used all over the body, results start appearing overnight and things just keep getting better overtime.

So what’s the catch? Is microneedling safe? Does microneedling work? And, most importantly, does it hurt?!

Rapid fire: yes, yes, and no! Microneedling is totally safe, it works wonders, and is virtually painless (despite the blood you may see in YouTube videos). If you can handle lightly pressing your nails into the backs of your hands, you can definitely handle microneedling.

The price of these face needling treatments depends on your esthetician. At $100-700 per appointment, the range is wide with most people paying in the $250-300 region.

Benefits of Microneedling 

Microneedling treatments can target a number of areas from forehead “elevens” and smile lines to balding or scarred areas of the body.

It’s easier to talk about what microneedling doesn’t do than to answer what is microneedling good for. Microneedling benefits include:

  • Scar fading
  • Hair regrowth
  • Diminished acne marks
  • Less lines and wrinkles
  • Cellulite reduction
  • Tightened skin

Is microneedling effective? You bet it is. The results speak for themselves. In a microneedling before and after study performed in 2008, participants showed an impressive 400% jump in collagen and elastin after just four sessions completed every other month for six months.

Side Effects and Risks of Microneedling 

The side effects of microneedling are few and far between. However, you know what they say about too much of a good thing.

Skin treatment with needles requires time to heal between sessions. Engage in the practice too frequently and you risk busted capillaries and a fake plasticy texture. Best to keep treatments to about once a month and give your skin a complete recovery between needle treatments for your face.

If you have a serious skin condition like eczema, severe acne, or rosacea, best to tread lightly and only engage in microneedling facials after you’ve consulted with a trained professional. Women who are pregnant or who are breastfeeding are also discouraged from microneedling as your body’s healing processes are usually slower during this special time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Microneedling

Before you let a trained professional take something small and sharp to your face, you probably want to be certain about the process. During your consultation, leave no needle unturned. The more questions you ask, the more comfortable you’ll be going into it.

Here are some microneedling FAQs we hear a lot:

Can microneedling ruin your skin?

Minor swelling and mild irritation are semi-common after a microneedling session, but you’re very unlikely to permanently damage your skin so long as you’re working with a trained professional.

Is microneedling better than Botox? Or can it replace Botox?

Many people like to use these two in tandem. Where microneedling focuses on skin’s surface and deeper layers beneath, Botox has longer term effects that can work to prevent wrinkles before they occur. Talk to your dermatologist or esthetician to find out what’s right for your skin.

Does microneedling make you age faster?

So long as you’re not engaging in treatments too frequently or putting too much pressure on your dermaroller, the collagen and elastin produced from microneedling will actually make you appear as though you’re aging in reverse!

Are microneedling results permanent?

Results increase steadily for a few weeks after your treatment, but you’ll need to have regular sessions to experience the full benefits over a long period of time.

Don’t have a microneedling estheticianpicked out yet? Sign up for Gina’s Platform to find the best-rated skin experts in your area.

If a needle procedure for your face sounds slightly intimidating, you’re not alone. Once you understand what microneedling does, how painless it can be, and the unbelievable benefits of microneedling, all that’s left is to experience it for your self. Ready to see firsthand what microneedling can help with? Find a vetted, microneedling professional from our extensive network right here!

Gina Rivera

Gina Rivera

Beauty Icon and Expert

Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.

    Filed Under: Body Care

    Tip of the Week – Apple Cider Vinegar for Your Hair and Scalp

    March 23, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

    Are you wondering what the buzz is about apple cider vinegar and if it’s good for your hair? Here’s what I recommend: ⁠

    • Apple cider vinegar can be used as clarifier to remove residue from products and the environment that build up on the hair and scalp. ⁠
    • Combine one part apple cider vinegar and five parts water. Use as a rinse after shampooing. Check with your stylist before using as those with a sensitive scalp may need to dilute more. (Hint: Apply the mixture with a spray bottle or pour it directly onto your hair. Allow it to sit for around three to five minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Then, condition as normal.) ⁠
    • Apple cider vinegar helps exfoliate scalp skin, which can help with dandruff and reduce dry itchy scalp. ⁠
    • Those with skin disorders, skin abrasions or hypersensitive scalp should avoid apple cider vinegar as it may promote further skin irritation. ⁠
    • Always consult with your stylist before starting a new clarification regimen. ⁠
    Gina Rivera

    Gina Rivera

    Beauty Icon and Expert

    Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.

      Filed Under: Business, Hair Care, Lifestyle, Tip Of The Week Tagged With: applecidervinegar, hair

      Tip of the Week – Cute Hairstyles for Women Over 40

      March 18, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

      Phenix Founder & Beauty Expert, Gina Rivera’s Tip of the Week⁠

      Looking for cute hairstyles and styling tips that are terrific for our 40-somethings? Here’s what I recommend to maintain a hip look: ⁠

      -The classic bob is a great style to consider as it removes weight from the hair and offers volume and movement which can be very youthful. ⁠

      -Add feathery bangs to your look has the ability to frame the face and soften facial features. ⁠

      -The pixie is perfect for bringing out the eyes and emphasizing cheekbones which can draw away from skin imperfections or fine lines. ⁠

      -Add height and style to any look by using a firm mousse or gel at the crown to create a tousled young look. ⁠

      -The short shag promotes fullness and volume which is terrific for creating a carefree, chic feel. ⁠

      -Asymmetrical cuts are fun and edgy. Being cut shorter on one side over the other is definitely trending, which makes it easy to appear stylish. ⁠

      -Always consult with your stylist to determine the best cut or style for face shape and lifestyle. ⁠

      Gina Rivera

      Gina Rivera

      Beauty Icon and Expert

      Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.

        Filed Under: Business, Lifestyle, Tip Of The Week Tagged With: asymmetricalcut, bangs, bob, hairsytles, lifestyle, pixie, tipoftheweek, womenover40

        What Is Eyebrow Threading and Is Threading Painful?

        March 12, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

        Your face is a work of art – and your brows are the frame. Just like any prized piece requires dusting from time to time, your eyebrows needs routine maintenance as well. Whether you’re looking to clean them up a bit or reshape your face caterpillars entirely, brow threading (sometimes known as brow flossing) has a lot to offer.

        So put the tweezers down and check out this centuries-old hair removal option. We’ll walk you through the eyebrow threading process and answer the question on everyone’s mind: does threading hurt? (Short answer, not really!)

        What Is Eyebrow Threading?

        For hundreds of years, the women and men (yes, eyebrow threading is for men, too!) of the Middle East and Southeast Asia have used eyebrow threading to groom their brows and achieve the perfect arch. In the early 2000s western countries began threading their brows into submission, giving folks a less painful alternative for eyebrow shaping.

        The technique removes multiple hairs at once, one line at a time, all using a single piece of cotton thread. It can also be used on other areas of the face, including the chin, sideburns, and upper lip.

        How Does Threading Work? 

        Now that you know what threading is, let’s string together the process of threading eyebrows and how threading works.

        Like the name suggests, it all begins with a simple brow thread. It gets twisted over on itself with one end held in the technician’s mouth or in a “double butterfly” looped and attached to two fingers on each hand.

        The skin gets gently pulled until taut and the twisting loops act like tiny lassos, which wrangle and remove the entire follicle at the root. That means it’s super effective at grabbing even fine, stubborn hairs like peach fuzz.

        Curious how long threading lasts? Since brows threading lifts the root from your pores, your post-treatment results can last 2-5 weeks depending on how fast your hair grows. Not bad for an appointment that should take no longer than about 15 or 20 minutes (depending on how much consultation time you want).

        The final eyebrow threading shapes speak for themselves, with ultra precise picturesque brows that can transform your face.

        Benefits of Eyebrow Threading 

        The eyebrow threading benefits are numerous, but let’s start with an obvious question: is eyebrow threading safe. Short answer: the safest.

        Because the skin is spared from chemicals, possible cuts, and potential burns, even those with a sensitive disposition come away with nothing more than minor redness and slight irritation that usually dissipates over the course of just an hour or two.

        Since multiple hairs, even those that are virtually tweezer-proof, get removed at the same time, the result is quick and perfectly precise. It’s the easiest way to try a new brow shape or give your arch a little lift.

        And no matter how often you thread the eyebrows, the maintenance between appointments is pretty much nil.

        Threading vs Plucking vs Waxing

        Eyebrow threading vs waxing ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, there are some clear advantages to threading up and browing down.

        For one thing, you never risk a brow burn from wax that’s too hot for your sensitive skin. Good technicians are usually mindful of wax temps, so while not a huge risk, some people prefer cotton thread to a wax strip.

        If you have a low pain tolerance you’re probably still stuck on whether it hurts to get your eyebrows threaded. So, once more for the seats in the back, does eyebrow threading hurt? It really does depend on who you ask, however, the consensus is it’s far less painful than eyebrow waxing.

        It’s also precise like tweezing, minus the repetition since it can mow down multiple hairs at once.

        Eyebrow threading costs are reasonable, too. Many brow threading professionals charge between $10 – $65 per session. Prices can vary depending on how much consultation time you need and whether it’s your first time threading. There’s usually a price difference depending on how overgrown you are versus whether you’re coming in for a simple upkeep appointment.

        Book Your Eyebrow Thread Appointment Today

        Still have questions about how often to get your eyebrows threaded or how long threading lasts, what threading does to your eyebrows, or how eyebrow threading works? You can use Gina’s Platform to book your threading consultation. Once you’re satisfied, you can easily secure your eyebrow threading appointment.

        If it’s your first time, treat it like you would any other hair care appointment. Come with pictures of brow shapes you like. Have an idea of the thickness you want, too. Be sure to say yes to aloe aftercare and tell your technician if you have super sensitive skin or a low pain tolerance. You’ll want to baby your pores for the next 24 hours to be safe. Think: minimal makeup, skip steam and direct sunlight, and no touching!

        Eyebrows and threading go together like Brook Shields and brow envy. Ready to make your face even more frame-worthy?

        You can find eyebrow professional styling, tinting, and threading technicians near you by clicking the Skin Care tab on ginasplatform.com or on the Gina’s Platform mobile app.

        xoxo,

        Gina

        Gina Rivera

        Gina Rivera

        Beauty Icon and Expert

        Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.

          Filed Under: Body Care

          30 of Jennifer Aniston’s Most Iconic Hairstyles

          March 9, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

          Remember the “Rachel” in the 1990’s? In the latest post on Byrdie.com, Jennifer Aniston’s best looks and most iconic hairstyles are explored over the last 20 years. From the swishy layers that made the Rachel one of the most memorable trend setting hairstyles of the all time, to her longer locks with flawless blond highlights, Jennifer Aniston’s hair has always been truly timeless at her every age.

          Click here to read the full article and get the latest tips to on recreating Jennifer Anniston’s most popular looks.

          Credit to: Julynne Derrick and Shannon Peter

          Gina Rivera

          Gina Rivera

          Beauty Icon and Expert

          Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.

            Filed Under: Business, Fashion, Hair Care, Lifestyle, Uncategorized Tagged With: jenniferanniston, jenniferannistonhair, therachel

            3 Hairstyles For Straight Hair That Every Woman Over 40 Should Try To Look 10 Years Younger

            March 3, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

            Straight hair is definitely one of the easiest hair types to manage and style when maintained properly. However, it can also leave you looking frumpy and old-fashioned when your straight hair is not properly styled to fit your face and overall look. In the latest post on shefinds.com, Gina discusses 3 different hairstyles for straight hair.

            For those of you over 40, these sleek straight hairstyles are game-changers to help you look and feel like a new women shaving years off your appearance.

            Credit to: Merrell Readman

            Gina Rivera

            Gina Rivera

            Beauty Icon and Expert

            Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.

              Filed Under: Business, Fashion, Hair Care, Lifestyle, Stylist Tagged With: shorthair, straighthair, womenover40

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