Skin Needling

EXCEED(Exceed Medical Microneedling) Receives FDA Clearance ‒ Twice

What is EXCEED Medical Microneedling?

Collagen Induction Therapy (also known as Skin Needling)

EXCEED has become the first and only FDA-cleared medical microneedling device (popularly known as skin needling device) for the treatment of both acne scars (K182407) and facial wrinkles (K180778). The device received it’s second FDA clearance with the Australian market.

EXCEED by amiea med is a medical microneedling device clinically proven to treat acne scarring and now facial wrinkles, in particular, to reduce the depth of scars and to normalise the skin structure.

The procedure is designed to enhance and improve skin complexion via activation of the skin’s natural regenerative processes which stimulates collagen synthesis.

With expert precision, technique and timing, EXCEED medical microneedling triggers growth factors for building new collagen. Small, precise needles are used to penetrate the top layer of the skin vertically causing localised and controlled micro-channels without substantially affecting the structure of the epidermis.

The creation of controlled micro-channels in the skin instigates the regeneration of skin cells via a natural process of healing. Awakening the fibroblast that lies within the deeper layers of the skin, healthy collagen is naturally produced.

The gentle stimulus provided by medical microneedling is considered far more effective than many other more invasive and expensive skincare treatments. It is a quick and easy technique with little downtime. After a course of treatments, skin structure is visibly revitalised, rejuvenated, replenished and regenerated.

FDA clearance for treating acne scarring was supported by an extensive clinical study, which evaluated the efficacy and safety of the EXCEED medical microneedling device when used for the treatment of acne scars in subjects 18 -62 years of age.

Fifty-six subjects were treated with four microneedling sessions, 30 days apart. Subjects were assessed for changes in acne scarring using an internationally recognised acne grading scale.

The study demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in facial acne scarring, with 85 percent of subjects exhibiting a visible improvement in their facial acne scars at the end of the study. No subject’s acne scarring worsened. When questioned, 86 percent of subjects noticed a visible improvement in their acne scars compared to the start of the study, with 88 percent of subjects suggesting they would recommend the treatment to family and friends.

Glynis Ablon, MD, FAAD (Ablon Skin Institute, Manhattan Beach, CA and Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of California in Los Angeles, CA) noted:

“Previous acne scarring studies using this technology have been largely criticised for poor study design however, this study successfully reports on a suitably sized group of subjects with Fitzpatrick skintypes I-IV. In addition, the clinical data has been scrutinised as part of a 510k submission by the US Food and Drug Administration.”

“The benefit of microneedling is that the epidermis remains relatively intact and because of this, the procedure induces transforming growth factor β 3 (TGF-β3) which is associated in scarless healing rather than TGF β1 and β2 which are associated with collagen scar deposition. In addition, we found that improvements in acne scarring was not restricted to the severity of the condition or the Fitzpatrick skin type. This is really encouraging as it offers both physicians and patient’s real benefits over the traditional treatments for acne scarring.”

Meet the next generation of Micro-Needling (Collagen Induction Therapy CIT) in Cleveland

Medical micro-needling is a procedure designed to enhance & improve skin complexion via activation of the skin’s natural regenerative processes which stimulates collagen synthesis. With expert precision, technique and timing, EXCEED medical micro-needling triggers growth factors for building new collagen. Very tiny needles are used to penetrate the top layer of the skin vertically causing localised and controlled damage without substantially affecting the structure of the epidermis. The creation of controlled microchannels in the skin instigates the regeneration of skin cells via a natural process of healing. Awakening the fibroblast that lies within the deeper layers of the skin, healthy collagen is naturally produced.

The gentle stimulus provided by medical micro-needling is considered far more effective than many other more invasive and expensive skincare treatments. It is a quick & easy technique with little downtime. After a course of treatments, skin structure is visibly revitalised, rejuvenated, replenished and regenerated. Please insert the video from this page here

EXCEED has achieved the highest level of safety body approval available globally. The device has been approved with the FDA and listed with the TGA as a class 2B medical device in Australia and is Medsafe listed in New Zealand.

The cornerstone of any treatments I offer is a Clinical Skin Assessment, in Cleveland, because if we can’t see what is happening beneath your skin, we are guessing & I promise you – no guesswork with me, ever! I look forward to exceeding your expectations ….

FAQs: Collagen Induction Therapy (also known as Skin Needling)

How long does it take to see results from micro needling?

That depends on your individual treatment plan & the specific cells being targeted. The genius of this treatment is the benefits go on for up to 12 months and longer.

What is micro needling (Collagen Induction Therapy) good for?

Used to improve conditions like acne scarring (TGA approval for acne), fine lines and wrinkles, loose skin, skin texture, pore size, brown spots, stretch marks, and pigment issues. This treatment is an all-rounder.

Is Micro Needling (also known as Collagen Induction Therapy) painful?

More uncomfortable than painful. I choose to use the very latest device called EXCEED by amiea med. This device has TGA & FDA approval. Because this is the latest device, it is quick & topical anaesthetic is rarely needed.

How much does Microneedling cost?

Best practice dictates this is more than a one-off treatment, & I am very strict about how you prepare your skin, what you apply to your skin after a treatment and follow up. A full Clinical Skin Assessment is required before commencement. I offer packages, which are discussed at the consultation.

Is Microneedling better than Botox?

Depends on your expectations. Botox is a toxin being injected for temporary results. Microneedling is your skin’s natural systems helping themselves.

Can Microneedling ruin your skin?

Like anything which is done badly, yes it can. I am a one man band & have nearly 3 decades of experience, together with always following best practice you can rest assured you are safe in my hands.

How often should I do micro needling?

Initially I recommended between 3-6 treatments at 4-6 week intervals, however it all depends on what is being treated and why. Maintenance treatments annually thereafter.

Are you the best skin needling expert in Cleveland?

Well, I don’t know about that – what I do know is I follow very strict protocols & expect my clients to do the same. If we work together, we get great results.

Is Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT) is same as skin needling and rolling?

Collagen Induction Therapy ((CIT) also known as skin needling & rolling) can be a fantastic treatment regime, when offered for the rights reasons, to the right candidates with a full diagnostic skin analysis & treatment plan in place. The initial consultation is vital, everything should be based around a clinical skin assessment.

To commence information is gathered via a form, depending on your answers to these questions a further assessment form may be required. We discuss everything from what you are currently using (only interested in ingredients, not brands) & of course dermal nutrition. Two types of ground breaking devices are then used to measure lipids (oil), water & erythema (rate of pinkness in the skin) via the German made SD202 & pictures are taken which look below the skin into your bi-layers via the Observ Skin Diagnostic Device. Without the correct information gathered through these devices, it is guesswork at the absolute best

What is Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT)? Why CIT is recommended?

So what is CIT & why is it recommended? The concept behind this treatment is the stimulation of new collagen production. Your skin has a natural ability to heal itself. If you have cut or grazed yourself you would have seen this process. This is your skin regenerating collagen & elastin cells but this is not all it does, CIT also increases capillary strength & growth factors. Small needle clusters of a handheld device penetrate into the skin creating microscopic channels in the epidermis/dermis to stimulate the skins natural healing process by instigating the regeneration of your skin cells.

CIT is the only skin rejuvenation treatment to target & regular 3 key cells (keratinocyte, melanocyte & fibroblast) without compromising the integrity of the epidermis. The growth factors released through CIT results in regenerative healing (collagen forms from the base upwards) and is type III collagen or healthy collagen as opposed to the growth factors released when the epidermis is damaged by heat methods, which in contrast produce a poor grade of collagen & elastin – this impacts your long-term skin health.

No potions, lotions, serums, facelifts in a pot nor miracles in a jar (that sounded a little sceptical), preservatives, parabens, synthetics of any kind should be poured down the holes. If you are a client of mine you will know all of this and will be in a good home rolling routine to expedite Clinical CIT results. If your lotions or potion “smells good enough to eat” &/ or is brightly coloured, it has NO place on your skin. Thinking about that, these products also have absolutely no place in our landfills or our waterways. Ingredients absolutely & categorically matter, not just during CIT but 100 of the time.

Our skin is our first line of defence – only a clean ingredient lamellae product (mimics the natural architecture of skin structure, without an occlusive effect) should be applied for 48 hours. No sunscreens, no make-up, no cleansing.

How long the Collagen Induction Therapy (also known as micro needling) takes?

It is vital to have a 12-month clinical treatment plan in place, this will involve a period of preparation which could range from 1-12 months – depending on the barrier function of your skin. Part of the prep will be a home rolling device which is used 3 plus times per week, this device will become part of your every other day home care & is addictive. As well, targeted bespoke home care & of course your dermal nutrition is vital in your skins ability to regenerate. It is a multi-faceted approach & may involve multiple clinical treatments!

Not many people want to hear this however skin correction is slow like a tortoise, there are no quick fixes when it comes to skin. Slow & steady definitely wins the race with your skin – together with best practice clinical treatments & bespoke, customised plans & home care.

Paula Cliffin

Dermal Facialist/Practising Corneotherapist
Certified in Oncology Aesthetics (COA)
Phone: 0438 735 990 (Appointment Only)