Your skin’s collagen production is already slowing down if you’re past your mid-twenties. Yes, really. But before you spiral into an existential crisis about your diminishing youth, there’s actually something you can do about it – and it’s called collagen banking.
Think of your skin like a savings account – the more collagen you deposit early, the more youthful the returns later. Collagen production doesn’t just slow down gradually – it drops off dramatically from your mid-twenties onwards and gets further hammered by sun exposure, smoking, pollution, and the genetic lottery your parents handed you.
So what is collagen banking? It involves stimulating collagen production while your body’s repair mechanisms are still firing on all cylinders, building up reserves that you’ll be grateful for as you age.
How microneedling helps build your collagen bank
Microneedling is one of the smartest investments you can make in your skin’s future. The treatment uses a pen-like device to create thousands of controlled micro-injuries that trick your skin into thinking it needs to repair itself – which it does by producing fresh collagen and elastin.
Over a course of treatments, this process smooths texture, refines pores, and softens scars. At Little Foray in Thames Ditton, we use FDA-approved Dermapen® and SkinPen® devices, after applying numbing cream to your skin. Most clients experience mild redness for a day or two.
Because collagen levels naturally decline with age, starting treatments in your twenties or thirties yields significantly better long-term benefits than waiting until you’re already seeing signs of ageing. It’s the difference between preventative maintenance and damage control. Research suggests that several microneedling sessions per year are effective for building meaningful collagen reserves, and combining treatments with bio-stimulators like polynucleotides or Profhilo can amplify the effect – though microneedling alone already delivers impressive results.
RF microneedling and the future at Little Foray
Traditional microneedling relies purely on mechanical stimulation – essentially controlled damage that forces your skin to rebuild better. RF microneedling takes this concept and supercharges it by adding radiofrequency energy to heat deeper layers of skin, causing additional tightening and boosting collagen production even further.
This enhanced version is particularly effective for deeper wrinkles, skin laxity, and more advanced signs of ageing. The exciting news? Little Foray plans to introduce RF microneedling technology soon. Starting regular microneedling treatments now will prepare your skin and build a solid collagen foundation – think of it as creating the perfect “nest egg” ready for when this advanced technology arrives at our Surrey clinic.
Treatment plans: how many sessions and why home rollers miss the mark
Most people begin with 3-6 sessions spaced about a month apart, though your specific plan depends on your skin goals and starting point. Younger clients focused on prevention might need fewer sessions, while those addressing existing scars or pigmentation may require more intensive treatment. Maintenance sessions every 6-12 months help preserve and build upon your results.
Now, about those at-home derma rollers flooding your Instagram feed… They use tiny needles (0.25mm or less) that mainly boost product absorption rather than triggering genuine collagen production. They simply don’t penetrate deep enough to reach the dermis where meaningful collagen induction occurs. Plus, they carry real risks of irritation or infection if not sterilised properly.
For genuine collagen banking that will pay dividends in decades to come, professional treatments are both safer and infinitely more effective than DIY alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
1. How soon will I see results from microneedling?
Most people notice a radiant glow within a week. Collagen remodelling takes longer; improvements in scars and fine lines typically appear after several sessions.
2. Does microneedling hurt?
Numbing cream makes the procedure comfortable. You may feel a slight scratching sensation on bony areas.
3. Is microneedling safe for darker skin?
Yes. Because it does not remove pigment, microneedling is suitable for all skin tones.
Start collagen banking with Little Foray
Proactive skincare isn’t just about vanity – it’s about giving your future self the best possible foundation. At Little Foray in Thames Ditton, we understand that clients from Richmond to Walton-on-Thames want treatments that deliver real, lasting results rather than temporary fixes.
We tailor every microneedling treatment to your specific skin type, concerns, and long-term goals, helping you build a robust collagen bank that will serve you well for decades to come. Whether you’re in your twenties looking to prevent future issues or your thirties wanting to address early signs of ageing, we’ll create a treatment plan that makes sense for your skin and your lifestyle.
Book your consultation today and stay tuned for the exciting arrival of RF microneedling technology – your future self will definitely thank you for starting this journey now rather than waiting until later.