Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Oct 27: Microneedling, a minimally invasive beauty treatment that stimulates collagen production, is fast becoming a popular trend across India’s metros. Promising smoother skin and scar reduction, the procedure is now easily accessible at beauty salons and clinics. However, dermatologists warn that the treatment carries risks if not done under proper medical supervision.
The treatment often causes redness or swelling that can last for several days, and experts advise patients to avoid sunlight until the skin heals completely. With the growing obsession for self-care and perfect skin in the digital era, cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai have seen a surge in such aesthetic procedures. Reports suggest that Indians between 18 and 45 years are increasingly exploring cosmetic treatments like microneedling.
Despite the booming market, a lack of awareness and regulation in salons raises safety concerns. When done by untrained hands, microneedling can lead to serious side effects, including infections and scarring.
The US Food and Drug Administration has issued a global advisory on the risks associated with radiofrequency microneedling procedures. These devices use tiny electrodes to deliver radiofrequency energy beneath the skin to improve texture and tighten wrinkles. However, the FDA has received reports of serious complications such as burns, scarring, fat loss, nerve damage, and disfigurement, some requiring surgical repair.
Experts emphasize that these procedures must be performed only under qualified dermatologists, as salons and spas often lack medical expertise or sterilized equipment. Beauticians are trained for cosmetic application but not for handling complications or understanding skin anatomy.
Improper needle depth, poor hygiene, and use of incorrect devices can lead to irreversible scarring or keloid formation. Aggressive treatment may also cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a common concern for Indian skin tones.
Dermatologists advise people to verify the credentials of the professional before treatment and to ask about sterilization practices and device brands. They also warn that correcting scars caused by improper microneedling is far more complex and expensive than preventing them.
The FDA has urged consumers to report any complications from microneedling devices through its official portal for data monitoring. Experts say that while clear, youthful skin remains a dream for many, safety and professional care should never be compromised in the pursuit of beauty.