Microneedling Treatment In Maryland
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Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure used to improve the skin’s appearance, reduce the effects of aging, and treat conditions like acne scarring and stretch marks.
Hormone Replacement
Microneedling
Everything You Need to Know
Microneedling has become one of the most popular and dermatologist recommended procedures for improving and rejuvenating your skin. There’s good reason for it too. Many people rave about the way microneedling has transformed their skin and their confidence too.
Designed to stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, microneedling encourages an increase in the natural production of collagen and elastin. This seemingly simple yet effective process can completely revitalize the skin and have significant effects over the course of multiple sessions.
If you’ve exhausted all other options for treating acne, fine lines, and other aesthetic skin issues, microneedling may be the holy grail treatment for you. The efficacy of the treatment over the years makes it worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of microneedling treatment?
Microneedling can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and stretch marks. It can also improve skin texture and tone.
How is microneedling performed?
Microneedling is typically performed with a device that contains multiple tiny needles that puncture the skin. The device is moved across the skin to create small, controlled injuries that stimulate collagen production.
How many microneedling treatments are needed?
The number of treatments needed varies depending on the individual's skin concerns and goals. Generally, a series of 3-6 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart is recommended for optimal results.
How long does a microneedling treatment take?
Microneedling treatments typically take about 30-60 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.
What should I expect after a microneedling treatment?
After a microneedling treatment, the skin may be red and sensitive for a day or two. Some patients may experience mild flaking or peeling of the skin in the following days. It is important to avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen to protect the skin.
Integrative medicine combines conventional medicine and alternative therapies to enhance a patient’s vitality, focusing on whole body wellness. An Integrative Medicine physician will address the root cause of your illness and not just treat the symptoms. By determining what the root is, you and your practitioner can devise a health plan to successfully treat the disease. At Shakthi, we take into account other factors in your life that may be preventing the root cause of your illness or disease from fully healing. We work closely with our patients to address their immediate health needs while developing a personalized wellness plan that encourages whole body wellness. You can learn more here.
Integrative medicine’s biggest benefit is the fact it looks at the patient as a whole individual and addresses the root causes of illnesses by doing so. I went along with this though integrative medicine promotes a symbiotic and collaborative relationship between the doctor and the patient. This means that there is better communication. Another great benefit is that it utilizes every therapy possible to ensure that the patient gets the treatment that is perfect for them.
Over the past decade or so, integrative medicine has been becoming more and more popular. Because of this popularity, there has been an increase in doctors that practice it. But even with all this popularity unfortunately insurance does not cover integrative health care. The lack of coverage from insurance companies is solely because integrative medicine often encompasses treatments that these health insurance companies degenerative treatments. Because these treatments like acupuncture, massage therapy, infrared sauna, and many others are all deemed alternative they are not covered.
We offer two options:
• Yearly Membership
• A La Carte
There are many different types of alternative medicines but many of them can fall under one of the five main alternative categories. These categories are homeopathy, eastern medicine, naturopathy, and Ayurveda. Within these five types so there are many variations and so choosing one that works for you all relies on what exactly you're looking to gain from choosing alternative medicines.
Shakthi Digital Guide
At Shakthi Health and Wellness we offer a la carte and yearly plans that are more comprehensive and often cheaper than traditional insurance plans.
What To Expect
Our Microneedling Specialists
Board Certified Doctors
Our team is composed of board certified medical doctors who are highly knowledgeable in the practice of integrative microneedling therapies. Our Integrative Specialty Care model provides patients with in depth consults with each appointment without the restrictions of time limits and jumping through insurance hoops.
Jyothi Rao
MD, ABAAHP, FAARFM
Dr. Jyothi Rao has been practicing medicine for over 20 years. She received her Doctorate of Medicine (MD) from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and completed her internship and residency at the prestigious New England Medical Center (Tufts) in Boston. Before opening Shakthi Health & Wellness Center, Dr. Rao practiced medicine in New York and Maryland.
Sudhir Rao
MD, ABAAHP
Dr. Sudhir Rao obtained his Medical Doctorate from St. George's University School of Medicine, and is the founder of Pain and Spine Specialists. Despite Dr. Rao's years of training focusing on traditional medicine, he developed a strong interest in Functional and Integrative Medicine to treat chronic illness with alternative methods after a personal experience with limitations in traditional medicine.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure used to improve the skin’s appearance, reduce the effects of aging, and treat conditions like acne scarring and stretch marks. It involves a set of tiny needles that puncture the top layer of the skin. These microscopic punctures work to stimulate the skin’s natural healing process. This process therefore increases collagen production, which is responsible for the tightness, texture, and elasticity of the skin.
While the prospect of a procedure involving needles may sound intimidating, it’s not as painful as you’d think, and the benefits far outweigh the risks. Microneedling is a simple, safe, and minimally invasive procedure that provides multiple benefits for the skin. The multifunctionality of microneedling makes it a great option for most people.
How Microneedling is Done
If you don’t enjoy the idea of lengthy procedures, not to worry. The procedure for microneedling is fairly simple and straightforward.
Before treatment is started, the doctor will clean and sterilize the skin. Next, the skin is numbed to prepare for treatment. Once the treatment is finished, the doctor will apply a serum. The entire process typically only lasts up to 2 hours total.
Microneedling uses thin needles that have been sterilized to make small evenly distributed injuries to the skin. The small injuries then signal to the body to begin its healing process, and this promotes the creation of healthy tissues in order to repair that damage.
This process can reduce the appearance of skin blemishes and even help with side effects of aging like sagging skin and poor skin texture. Along with this, it can help treat acne pitting as well as stretch marks. Recently it has been shown that microneedling can also help with things like evening out of your skin tone and making it brighter. This is because it has been shown that the microneedling process does affect melatonin production.
Beautician doing skin treatment using a microneedle dermaroller. Woman having procedure skincare with micro derma facial roller
Before Your Microneedling Appointment
The great thing about microneedling is that there is minimal prep before your appointment. If you can follow 3 simple rules, this will help you get the most out of this treatment.
Rule 1: Avoid sun exposure at least the day before treatment. Sunburnt skin is irritated skin, which is not ideal for microblading.
Rule 2: Avoid harsh and abrasive skincare products that contain active ingredients. Less is more here, so just avoid doing anything that will affect the skin up to a week before your appointment. This can include shaving and waxing.
Rule 3: Avoid taking blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen, Advil, and Tylenol. These interfere with the natural processes that happen once the treatment is completed.
Ways Microneedling Helps
Microneedling has become very popular because of its actual results in working with skin blemishes and rejuvenation. It is minimally invasive and has very little recovery time which makes it perfect for many people.
Whether you struggle with acne scarring, wrinkles and fine lines, or stretch marks that affect your confidence, there’s something in microneedling for everyone. If you need a boost in confidence or just want to prioritize the health of your skin, you can find a host of benefits to getting microneedling treatment.
Collagen plays one of the most vital roles in not only the appearance, but also the health of your skin. It is the most abundant protein in the body, and supports the look of youthful, glowing skin. With the help of multiple sessions and proper post-procedure skin care, you can reap the benefits of microneedling for years.
Microneedling is a procedure that does just about everything for your skin, and the recovery time is minimal. Unlike laser treatments, microneedling is more affordable and poses less risk to the skin. Aside from temporary redness and swelling after treatment, microneedling is not an invasive procedure with a grueling healing process. Take a look at just a few microneedling before and after benefits you can expect:
• Minimize Enlarged Pores
Large pores increase bacteria buildup and is often the source of problems with acne. Collagen works to tighten the surface of the skin. Despite poking holes in it with needles, microneedling can help reduce the size of pores.
• Improve Texture and Minimize Lines and Wrinkles
If you’re opposed to injecting yourself with Botox, microneedling can save the day as a natural alternative to reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines that come with aging. The tightening and elastic effects of increased collagen production will promote smoother and more youthful looking skin.
• Reduce Acne and Scarring
Treating acne and acne scarring is one of the most popular reasons that people choose microneedling. You can find countless microneedling before and after photos that show just how effective it is at treating acne prone skin. There are studies that show it has been proven to improve scarring from acne and even nonacne scars like burns and post-surgical scars.
• Reduce Sun Damage and Aging Spots
If you struggle with blotchy complexion or spend a lot of time in the sun, microneedling can help reverse these effects. Combined with vitamin C, the stimulation of collagen can help even the texture and of your skin and reverse hyperpigmentation.
• Restored Elasticity and Hydration
Microneedling rejuvenates your skin by increasing collagen and elastin production, leaving the skin with a healthy glow. Collagen is essential for restoring hydration and elasticity back into the skin. Depending on the type of microneedling treatment you get and the number of sessions, there are ways to maximize your results.
• Improved Mental Health and Confidence
Let’s not forget that skin issues like acne can play a contributing role in your mental health, especially for those with chronic conditions. Aggressive acne and scarring can be stressful and even cause depression. This can be a vicious cycle and feels defeating. The results you get from microneedling can help increase your confidence and help you feel better and happier in your skin.
In regards to treatments for these situations, many people look at laser therapy but microneedling is a less invasive and less expensive option and one that our doctors are very well versed in.
Microneedling: Potential After Effects and Treatment Post Care
Post microneedling procedure is where the magic happens. The healing process that happens after microneedling is minimal and will last from 1 to 3 days at most.
Just like with any treatment though there are potential after-effects that one needs to be aware of especially when utilizing these treatments around your eyes or neck. Many experience a tight, swollen, dry, and sensitive sensation around the area treated. Oftentimes this area does become red and could be easily irritated for up to 24 hours after the treatment.
Up to seven days after the treatment the skin may still feel a little rough and this is due to the fact that the old skin is beginning to flake off so that the new skin can replace it. In order to decrease the unwanted aftereffects though there are some post-treatment care suggestions that could help.
Here are some of the post-treatment care tips that our doctors at Shakthi Health and Wellness Center suggest:
- The area that has been treated needs to be consistently cleaned for at least the first three days after the treatment. This is to be done using mild soap and skin care products.
- The patient needs to stay away from alcohol-based toners as they might react with the treatment area.
- For the best results after the treatment you want to avoid any type of makeup. This is because the ingredients in these products could potentially cause skin irritation and reduce your skin's ability to breathe. Your skin needs to breathe to have a full recovery.
- Making sure that you stay hydrated during this time is vital. Hydration is important at all times but after this treatment, because of the potential dry skin, and in order to help with this you make sure you drink enough water is key.
- Most likely we will prescribe you some collagen-stimulating peptides. This is to help increase the healing capability through the production of collagen in your body. Making sure you take these as directed is vital to ensuring you get the best results from your treatment.
- Avoid wearing makeup or activity that causes sweating at least 24 hours after the procedure.
- Avoid direct sunlight and wear sunscreen
- Avoid skin care products with active ingredients
Microneedling results will vary from person to person, but it’s common to see results almost immediately. To get the best microneedling experience, you can expect maximum results after multiple sessions.
Types of Microneedling
Believe it or not, microneedling comes in a few different sizes. Traditional microneedling is the most common, but there are treatments with added factors that increase the benefits of the treatment. Depending on what your goals are, you can choose from the different types of microneedling to get the most out of your treatment experience.
Traditional Microneedling
Traditional microneedling is the most common type of microneedling treatment. Also called Collagen Induction Therapy, traditional microneedling effectively tones, tightens, lifts, and reduces blemishes on the skin.
Microneedling and PRP
Microneedling with PRP is a process that involves traditional microneedling and applying platelets into the skin simultaneously. The platelets that are injected into the skin help to clot the blood. This process helps to speed up the healing process and stimulate skin rejuvenation. PRP Microneedling is a great option for acne scarring, uneven texture, and those who want a speedier healing process.
Microneedling with RF (Radiofrequency)
RF Microneedling is traditional microneedling combined with radiofrequency energy. As the needles are pressed into the skin, radiofrequency energy heats the deeper layers of the skin, which helps to stimulate more collagen and increases the tightness of the skin. If your main goal is to reverse signs of aging and reduce fine lines, RF Microneedling might be a possible option for you.
Who Is Microneedling For
The most ideal candidate for microneedling is someone who wants to treat blemishes and breathe new life into their skin. Microneedling is good for all skin types, and the low risk of the procedure makes it a great option for many people.
While microneedling is safe for most generally healthy people, there are some factors that should be considered before treatment. Certain conditions that might disqualify you, like blood disorders, medications, and skin conditions. Always talk with your doctor before a medical procedure.
Interested in Microneedling?
At Shakthi Health and Wellness Center, we are dedicated to helping you find the best rejuvenating therapies for your individual wellness needs. If you want to know more about Microneedling and if it’s right for you, reach out to our excellent staff to schedule an appointment. You can call (301)703-5067 for a consultation so we can start your path to optimal wellness.
About Us
We believe in practicing medicine that focuses on whole body health. As integrative medicine doctors we focus our on root cause of your condition with comprehensive treatments that actually heal the body rather than just masking the symptoms of your illness.
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Patient Testimonials
Patient Testimonials
I started by seeing Dr. Sudhir Rao for my Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) Syndrome. I had an accident in July 2010 that caused nerve damage in my ankle. After treatments and surgery, it spread up the entire left side of my body. The only way to describe how you feel is by saying you’re a human pinball machine ? you just never know where the pain is going to be that minute. I had asked about acupuncture because someone had told me that it worked for them. I was at the point of trying anything to lessen the pain because it was getting worse every day.
- Susan Doyle
I am actually a relatively healthy 50-year-old woman. I try to eat well and exercise, but I (like many) felt the creep of age in the form a subtle pounds and decreasing energy. Dr. Rao helped point me in the direction of the correct detox program for me (Core Restore!) as well as the supplements I needed to boost my metabolism and increase my energy! I still need to eat what works for me and avoid the things that don't, and I still have to exercise every day, but my clothes fit better and I have more energy!!
- Shakthi Patients
I came to see Dr. Rao with symptoms of chronic fatigue, abdominal pains, depression, and weight gain. I had seen a couple other doctors and they had found that I had very high inflammation levels and over 15 food allergies/sensitivities. They wanted me to just take prescription drugs, but I wanted more than a quick fix. I wanted my health and my life back! When I scheduled the appointment, I was surprised how by helpful Kelly was on the phone. I didn’t know the details of my insurance coverage and Kelly offered to call my insurance for me. I’ve never had anyone at a doctor’s office do that before.
- Anna Smoot
After visiting the Shakthi website and reading other patient testimonials, I was curious about the wide variety of treatments that were available. I have a very slow metabolism, was fatigued, had insomnia, back pain, and just didn’t feel as well as I wanted to in general. I had more allergic reactions and respiratory issues in the preceding months before coming to see Dr. Jyothi Rao. I had completed three courses of prednisone while under the treatment of my traditional doctor and was fed up with that cycle and was looking for another path.
- Debbie Helman
I was given the gift of Dr. Rao's primary care for Christmas in 2016. I didn?t take advantage of it until March of 2017. My mindset at the time was negative. I had heard about changing eating habits and I felt that I liked the foods I was eating and I was nearly 70, so why change now? After meeting with Dr. Rao and hearing her suggestions, I said I would take it one small step at a time and see what happens.
- Linda J.
I was in the worst shape of my life with depression and anxiety. I had given up. Shakthi provided me with a manageable plan that included supplements, diet, and an exercise program that has transformed my body and given me a new outlook on life. Perhaps the most surprising outcome was learning how to be healthy and have a good relationship with my body. I am now more productive, energetic, and focused. The fog that had been clouding my thoughts has lifted.
- Shakthi Patient
What To Expect
How Treatment Works
Our doctors and staff take time to get invested in your health and well-being. We've taken a step back from mainstream medicine and are challenging the norm. Everyone's healthcare needs are different. You are different. We believe patients shouldn't settle. Our practice is not a revolving door. We listen, and most importantly, we hear you.
Appointments
Appointments are conducted on an as-needed basis. Patients can expect appointments to be more thorough and focused on their needs. As integrative speciality care doctors, we see a limited number of patients which means each of our patients receives dedicated care without the concern of being “rushed” our of an appointment.
Diagnostic Testing
We offer patients scientifically backed health assessments to better understand the root causes of their health conditions. We evaluate any disruptions to your health and body to develop effective wellness plans to optimize your vitality. To learn more about the specific tests we offer visit this page here.
Costs Involved
Patients receive personalized and tailored care in exchange for a flat fee. Overall cost will be discussed during your initial consultation. Each subsequent appointment will not need to be individually paid for. All patients receive unlimited access to their physicians which leads to better overall health and wellness.
