A Medi-Facial is a more dramatic treatment than a conventional facial, and Collagen Induction Therapy (C.I.T.) is a more dramatic treatment than a Medi-Facial. It’s commonly referred to as “micro-needling”, and it’s a viable alternative to surgery. In simple terms, Collagen Induction is intended to break up old collagen in the deeper layers of skin, and then stimulate the development of new collagen. The protective layers of the skin (epidermal) are kept intact.
The end result with Collagen Induction is skin that is smooth, tight, and toned. Although the idea of “micro-needling” sounds somewhat aggressive, it’s actually quite moderate. This is because the treatment does not harm the surface skin (like skin peeling or laser treatment). It’s rejuvenating for the skin, and allows for a revitalized, younger look. In fact, “micro-needling” triggers the natural skin to go through a healing process that serves to repair the skin.
With Collagen Induction, a hand-held roller device (containing micro needles) rolls over the skin and creates very tiny punctures. During this treatment, the surface skin is “punctured” but not damaged. The actual length of the micro needles determines the outcome of the treatment. In short, the longer the needle, the better the outcomes. However, as with any skin treatment, there are a number of variables, depending on a patient’s skin condition, and even lifestyle habits.
The principle behind Collagen Induction is to stimulate collagen production. It’s a treatment that kick-starts the skin’s natural ability for self-repair. And at the same time, it allows skin products and nutrients to penetrate quickly and deeply into the skin. As a direct result, skin products and nutrients applied after Collagen Induction are absorbed effectively, and contribute significantly to the healing process, as well as the overall success of the treatment.
Because only the surface skin is punctured with the Collagen Induction approach, the skin heals very quickly. However, there is still considerable healing that must take place and this takes time. It will take between 3 and 6 months for the deeper skin to repair naturally, and during that time the appearance of the skin will noticeably improve. For the best results, most professionals will recommend three separate Collagen Induction treatments (with a 4-6 week break).
Today, many patients have high expectations when it comes to skin treatments. One skin expert said it right: we don’t age overnight – so why expect to anti-age overnight? We have been over-exposing ourselves to the environment; we have made bad lifestyle choices; and we continue to have poor dietary habits. Clearly, the turnaround doesn’t happen overnight. Collagen Induction requires some patience as the skin begins to heal and improve over time.
Any professional offering the Collagen Induction approach will remind their patient about the danger of smoking. And when it comes to treatments at a skin clinic in Toronto, this is spot-on. Smoking will severely delay healing. For those who smoke, this is the ideal time to stop – completely. Smoking restricts blood circulation and lowers oxygen levels, both of which will delay healing and compromise the final success of the treatment. Besides, smoking is a major contributor to premature skin aging.
