Additional Coverage:
- A pharmacist says she’d only recommend one science-backed tweakment for radiant skin (businessinsider.com)
Ditch the Filters? Pharmacist Endorses One “Tweakment” for Flawless Skin
Local News Desk – In an age of endless cosmetic procedures promising a youthful glow, one expert is cutting through the noise to recommend a single “tweakment” that truly delivers. Sonal Chavda-Sitaram, a pharmacist with a Ph.D. in topical and transdermal drug delivery, is throwing her support behind microneedling as the most effective non-surgical procedure for skin rejuvenation.
“Tweakments,” a catchy term for non-surgical cosmetic procedures like fillers and laser treatments, have seen a massive surge in popularity. Global statistics show nearly 2 million more such procedures performed between 2017 and 2020, with projections for dermal fillers and body procedures to reach 23 million and 14.6 million, respectively, by the end of 2025.
However, Chavda-Sitaram, 43, who emphasizes a healthy lifestyle as the cornerstone of good skincare, believes many of these trendy options fall short. “There are lots of new trendy procedures, but for me, microneedling is probably the one that I find is most effective and makes sense in terms of the science behind what you’re doing,” she stated. She’s undergone the procedure twice herself and would opt for it more frequently if time allowed.
The Science Behind Smoother Skin
Microneedling works by creating tiny, controlled punctures in the skin with fine needles. This process triggers the body’s natural healing response, prompting it to produce more collagen – the essential protein that gives skin its structure and elasticity.
As we age, our natural collagen production declines, leading to wrinkles and sagging. By stimulating this process, microneedling can result in smoother, tighter, and more even-toned skin.
Chavda-Sitaram also explained that our skin’s protective barrier, while excellent at keeping out harmful substances, also prevents most skincare products from penetrating deeply. Microneedling creates “micro-channels” in the dermis, the layer beneath the barrier, allowing topical treatments to be absorbed more effectively.
The procedure is widely considered safe and effective, with FDA clearance for improving the appearance of facial acne scars, wrinkles, and abdominal scars in individuals aged 22 and older. While temporary redness, swelling, and a tight or dry sensation are common after-effects, these typically subside within a few days.
Chavda-Sitaram initially tried microneedling in preparation for a significant event. Depending on individual goals, multiple sessions over several weeks or months may be necessary to achieve desired results.
An “Inside-Out” Approach to Skin Health
While external treatments can be highly beneficial, Chavda-Sitaram stresses that they are most effective when the skin is optimized from within. A balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular exercise, and stress management are all crucial components of overall skin health.
“When you undertake these invasive procedures, you’re essentially damaging your tissue and then waiting for it to heal and rebuild,” she explained. “If your skin doesn’t have the necessary building blocks, these treatments are just going to be very expensive and not as effective.”
“I’m not anti-procedure at all, but I am pro-foundation,” Chavda-Sitaram concluded, advocating for a holistic approach to beauty that prioritizes wellness before aesthetic interventions.
Read More About This Story:
- A pharmacist says she’d only recommend one science-backed tweakment for radiant skin (businessinsider.com)