In the midst of 2023, as I marked my 31st lap around the sun, I couldn’t help but notice the growing prevalence of a familiar yet curious phenomenon: botox. Whether engaged in casual banter with friends and family or mingling with the perpetually youthful Gen-Z 20-somethings, for whom botox seemed as routine as a manicure, it was evident that botox treatments had transitioned into a casual aspect of self-care.

While I held no judgement, I found myself increasingly intrigued, struck by a blend of curiosity and a subtle pressure reminiscent of the rapidity of my rice cooker. These encounters left me thinking: was it time to embrace botox as a proactive measure against ageing, or had I perhaps missed the boat entirely?

After months of contemplation over whether I would take the plunge into the realm of botox, fate intervened when I received an invitation to experience a facial treatment at The Skin Bar. It was there that I crossed paths with business owner Sam Appel, and my skincare journey took an unexpected turn. As I shared my thoughts and reservations with Sam, she delved into her own journey, her business ethos, and her profound dedication to skincare—especially her enthusiasm for skin needling and its transformative effects. Sam’s energy was infectious, and suddenly, I found myself seriously considering this alternative approach. She explained how skin-needling could address all my concerns, without resorting to synthetic interventions–sounds like a dream, right? 

While I’m not one to readily embrace new trends, Sam, sensing my hesitation, proposed a challenge: a six-month journey devoid of botox. With no compelling reason to decline, I eagerly accepted. So, armed with newfound knowledge about the benefits and process of skin needling, I embarked on my journey with renewed excitement and optimism, eager to see the results unfold over the coming months.

Skin needling, also known as microneedling or collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves the use of a device with fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries to the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural wound healing process, resulting in increased collagen and elastin production, which can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and overall skin texture.

During a skin needling session, a topical numbing cream is usually applied (but not mandatory) to minimise discomfort. After my first one to two sessions, I became familiar with the sensation and then for the most part, I no longer needed the numbing cream with the exception of the week before/during my period when I tend to feel more sensitive to pain (ouchies). Then, a specialised device equipped with fine needles is gently passed over the skin, creating tiny punctures. The depth of penetration can be adjusted depending on the specific skin concerns being addressed. Following the procedure, the skin may appear slightly red and swollen, similar to a mild sunburn, but these side effects typically subside within a few days. 

To achieve optimum results, you can choose to incorporate LED (light-emitting diode) therapy during your skin needling journey. LED therapy utilises specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity, promote circulation and accelerate the skin’s natural healing process. This non-invasive treatment can enhance the results of skin needling by reducing inflammation, improving collagen production, and promoting overall skin rejuvenation resulting in healthier, more radiant skin over time. 

Within the first one to two months, I would follow each skin needling session at The Skin Bar with LED therapy a week post-treatment. This meant that during those seven days, my skin was truly in shedding and repair mode. I was given a fairly strict, but attainable skin routine to follow:

• Redness may be present for up to 24 hours. In some cases longer depending on skin type.
• Can wear mineral makeup and mineral sunscreen immediately post treatment.
• Avoid heat-based activities for 12 hours
• Do not use active products for three days
• Can do gentle exfoliant after three days
• Aftercare can vary from person to person 

DAY 1-2: Skin would be glowing, with literally not one wrinkle in sight. However, it would be hot to touch, and red in appearance. By day two, a slightly sun-kissed glow would be prevalent with a reduction in redness to my overall skin tone. 

DAY 3-4: Skin would become extremely dry and slightly itchy by days three or four. At the end of day four, following the instructions from The Skin Bar, I would then use a physical exfoliant to buff away the dead skin cells. 

DAY 5-6: Slowly, slowly my skin would shed, to reveal my new baby face layer of skin. Joy!

DAY 7: A week post-skin needling, my skin would be absolutely radiant. 

*HOT TIP:
After the first three to four months of combined skin needling and LED therapy a week post treatment, I pivoted to undertaking the LED therapy immediately before my skin needling treatment. This actually resulted in less down time post-treatment, as the LED light wavelengths help to stimulate cellular activity, speeding up the skin’s natural healing process. By stimulating those cells pre-treatment, it meant that I didn’t notice as much dryness or flakiness in my skin texture the week following treatment. Both processes are equally as beneficial, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference.

One to two months:

In the first one to two months post-skin needling, get ready to witness some instant gratification. I remember feeling legitimately shook when I looked in the mirror—my skin literally looked like glass. Your complexion will thank you as it starts to reveal its newfound radiance. Say goodbye to those pesky fine lines and superficial acne scars as collagen and elastin production kicks into gear, leaving your skin looking smoother, plumper, and oh-so-fresh. 

Two to three months:
As you continue on your skin needling journey, you can expect the compliments to begin rolling in. By the two to three-month mark, my skin was truly starting to feel the best it’s ever felt. Those fine lines and wrinkles? Consider them softened and blurred, as if airbrushed away. Any uneven skin tone or pesky hyperpigmentation? Fading into the background, leaving behind a more even, luminous complexion.

Three to six months:
Fast forward to three to six months of consistent skin needling treatments, and get ready to embrace your skin’s full potential. It was at this point where I fully felt and noticed the full potential and power of skin needling and I officially became obsessed with The Skin Bar.

During this period, your complexion will now appear smoother, firmer, and more youthful than ever. Those fine lines and wrinkles? Barely a memory. Acne scars? Virtually undetectable. Your skin is glowing from within, radiating health, vitality, and undeniable natural beauty.