18
Sep
5 Common Skin Complaints Microneedling Helps
When your skin looks and feels less than its best, turn to cosmetic skin care treatment tools for a targeted boost. That includes microneedling!
The providers at Apex Dermatology of Westlake Village, California — Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, FASDS, Dr. Aria Vazirnia, Dr. Zoë Indigo Smith, Sherri Anderson PA-C, Mary Hanna BC-NP, Alex Woodruff PA-C, Lani Keene LE, and Riley McCarthy RN — offer microneedling treatment with the Rejuvapen system.
This type of treatment improves your skin’s appearance and texture. Whether you’re frustrated with old, pitted acne scars or looking to add power to your anti-aging routine, microneedling can help.
Here’s what our team wants you to know about the power of microneedling and how you can use it.
1. Poor skin tone
Does your skin look dull, blotchy, or otherwise less than radiant? Try microneedling treatment! When you come in for a treatment session, your provider at Apex Dermatology uses the specialized Rejuvapen tool on the area of your skin you want to be refreshed.
During the treatment, the tool creates tiny microwounds on the surface of the treatment area. Your skin responds with accelerated healing and rejuvenation, including increased collagen production. You may see mild redness for 2-4 days post-treatment, with your full results starting after a week or two. A series of treatments will continue to boost your collagen levels and improve your overall texture and appearance.
2. Fine lines and wrinkles
As you age, the collagen layer beneath your outer skin thins and can even form folds, cracks or breaks. The collagen-inducing function of microneedling treatment works to repair this situation, producing anti-aging cosmetic results.
You can use microneedling to effectively reduce fine lines and wrinkles around your eyes, mouth, and nose. Treatment can even improve the appearance of your decolletage. And you can come back for refreshing treatments over time to maintain your more youthful-looking skin.
3. Hyperpigmentation and sun damage
Microneedling stimulates the deeper layers of your skin and clears away surface skin damage, including sun damage and areas of darkened hyperpigmentation when combined with microneedling of special fading agents or application afterwards. One could even enjoy a same-day or multi-day combination treatment of microneedling with Clear + Brilliant laser or Piqo-toning or BBL. To break up and remove large areas of hyperpigmentation, you may need multiple treatment sessions as well as topical pigment eveners spaced apart to let your skin recover.
4. Stretch marks
When your skin stretches, it relies on proteins like collagen and elastin. Sometimes, thin, scar-like stretch marks appear when the skin stretches rapidly.
You can repair stretch marks with Rejuvapen microneedling treatment or superficial RF Microneedling with our Morpheus 8 device, creating more collagen where your skin needs it the most. Talk to the Apex Dermatology team about areas of your skin where stretch marks have you feeling stressed out, and learn more about your treatment options, including this type of skin stimulation.
5. Acne scars
Deep or very inflamed acne pimples sometimes leave pockmarked scars behind. These scars may remain for years, even lingering long after acne ceases to be a problem in your life. For people with adult acne problems, scars from past outbreaks only compound skin appearance issues.
By building up your collagen again, microneedling treatment works to tell your healthy skin to work to fill in pitted scarring like acne scars. After a series of treatments, you can restore the smooth outer surface of your skin. Large or very deep scars often take multiple treatment sessions or may require multiple treatment types to create significant change. Your provider will counsel you about starting points and expectations overall.
You don’t have to learn to live with skin challenges. These are just some skin complaints you can address with microneedling treatment and other cosmetic and skin repair procedures available at Apex Dermatology. Call now to schedule your initial consultation appointment, or book online today.
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Zoë Smith, MD
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Alexandra Woodruff
Lani Keene
Sherri Anderson
Riley McCarthy
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, California. With years of experience, she excels in skincare and aesthetics, offering treatments like body contouring and laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Harp is adept at managing complex skin conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis and performs surgical procedures, including Mohs micrographic surgery. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine, she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She is affiliated with esteemed organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology, ensuring her practice remains at the forefront of dermatological care. Dr. Tateoka’s philosophy centers on creating customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, fostering positive self-confidence, and promoting overall well-being. Her commitment to innovation, personalized care, and lifelong learning makes her a trusted provider for those seeking transformative health and aesthetic solutions.
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Dr. Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD, is a highly respected board-certified dermatologist with a focus on medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. A Harvard-trained expert, he excels in minimally invasive procedures such as laser treatments, injectables, and body contouring. Dr. Aria completed his medical degree and dermatology residency at UC San Diego School of Medicine, where he also earned a master’s in clinical research. He is an active member of the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, reflecting his dedication to advancing dermatological care and patient well-being.
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Dr. Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a respected double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon based in Westlake Village, CA. With extensive training from Brown University and Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Tang specializes in the surgical treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Her expertise in Mohs surgery and complex wound reconstruction is backed by her role as former Director of Cutaneous Surgery and Oncology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. A fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, Dr. Tang is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care with excellent outcomes.
Zoë Smith, MD
Dr. Zoë Smith, MD, is a compassionate and skilled dermatologist serving the Westlake Village, CA community at Apex Dermatology. She earned her medical degree from Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit and completed her dermatology residency at UCLA. Dr. Zoë has authored numerous articles on hair loss, skin cancer, and autoimmune conditions, showcasing her expertise. Her research includes work at the NIH and an externship at Harvard Medical School. A leader in her field, she is recognized for her warm approach to patient care and her commitment to volunteering with children who have skin conditions.
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Mary Hanna, NP-BC, is a highly skilled Nurse Practitioner based in Westlake Village, CA, at Apex Dermatology. With a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, affiliated with Harvard, Mary is nationally Board-Certified by the ANCC. Her expertise in dermatology was honed during a prestigious clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center. Mary excels in laser resurfacing, body contouring, and injectables and is dedicated to educating her patients. Her compassionate approach ensures patients feel empowered in their healthcare, enhancing their overall well-being. Mary is a trusted provider, committed to delivering exceptional care.
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C, is a compassionate Certified Physician Assistant at Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, CA. Her journey into dermatology began in high school, inspired by her own experiences with hormonal acne. Since 2016, Alexandra has been dedicated to understanding the connection between metabolic health and skin conditions. She holds a master’s degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. As a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society, Alexandra is committed to providing exceptional patient care.
Lani Keene
Lani Keene, a licensed aesthetician in Westlake Village, CA, has been enhancing skin health since 1998. With over 25 years of experience in both medical and holistic skincare, she offers personalized treatments that deliver outstanding results. At Apex Dermatology, Lani is renowned for her gentle touch and warm demeanor, making her a top choice for those dealing with sunspots, acne, and fine lines. Her dedication to individualized care and extensive expertise make her a trusted professional in aesthetics, helping clients achieve their best looks and feel confident.
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C, is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years of clinical practice. She earned her Master of Science from George Washington University and is board-certified by the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants. Sherri is a respected member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society. Her extensive expertise spans dermatology, plastic surgery, and emergency medicine. Known for her warm manner and aesthetic talents, Sherri is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each patient feels valued and receives natural results from cosmetic procedures.
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN, is a dedicated dermatologist with a unique blend of expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Arizona. Riley is committed to making each patient feel safe and confident in their skin, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Her approach combines her extensive knowledge and compassionate care, making her a trusted professional in the field. Riley is passionate about community health and enhancing patient well-being.