Micro-coring is a non-surgical, energy-free aesthetic treatment designed to reduce wrinkles and skin laxity. With aging, the skin gradually loses its firmness, elasticity, and youthful appearance, leading to sagging and visible signs of aging. As a result, many individuals seek effective treatments that help restore skin tightness and maintain a youthful look without undergoing surgery.
Micro-coring technology is considered one of the most advanced aesthetic treatments and has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is specifically used to treat moderate to severe wrinkles and skin laxity in the mid and lower face.
What Is Micro-Coring Technology?
Micro-coring technology is based on the use of ultra-fine, hollow needles with a diameter of less than 0.5 mm. These needles precisely remove micro-columns of lax skin, helping to reduce wrinkles and excess skin without the risks associated with surgical procedures.
During the treatment, the physician identifies the target area and uses the micro-coring device to insert the hollow needles into the skin. The needles remove thousands of tiny skin cores (approximately 10,000–12,000 micro-cores) through precise micro-biopsies. This process eliminates excess and damaged skin cells without leaving visible scars. Up to 8% of the total skin surface area in the treated zone can be removed.
These micro-biopsies stimulate the skin’s natural healing response, allowing new, healthier, and more youthful skin tissue to regenerate through the body’s natural repair process.
In addition, micro-coring stimulates collagen and other structural protein production within the deeper layers of the skin. These proteins contribute to skin tightening, wrinkle reduction, and improvement of overall skin firmness and elasticity.
How Does Micro-Coring Work?
The treatment begins with marking the treatment area, followed by thorough cleansing and sterilization of the skin to remove impurities, bacteria, and makeup residue. A local anesthetic is then applied to minimize discomfort.
The device handpiece is placed on the skin, and the ultra-fine needles rapidly penetrate the skin, removing microscopic skin cores that are invisible to the naked eye. The extracted skin cores are immediately suctioned through the hollow needles and discarded.
Treatment Duration and Number of Sessions
A single micro-coring session typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, thanks to the speed and precision of the device. Most patients require 2 to 3 sessions, with a one-month interval between each session to allow proper healing and collagen and elastin regeneration.
In some cases, additional sessions may be required depending on the degree of skin laxity and the individual’s skin response. The total number of sessions may range from 3 to 6 sessions, as determined by the physician.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Micro-Coring?
Micro-coring technology, including Ellacor®, is indicated for adults aged 22 years and older. Patient suitability is determined by the degree of skin laxity rather than age alone, following a personalized medical evaluation.
It is commonly used to treat wrinkles and sagging in the following areas:
- Mid and lower face
- Jawline and cheeks
- Chin area
The technology is also effective for patients with significant skin laxity, as well as younger individuals who wish to delay or avoid surgical facelift procedures in the future.
Advantages of Micro-Coring Treatment
- FDA-approved technology
- High-precision needles made of medical-grade stainless steel
- Avoids many risks associated with surgical cosmetic procedures
- Energy-free treatment (no heat, ultrasound, cold, laser, or radiofrequency)
- No visible scarring due to precise micro-biopsy technique
- Does not affect facial muscles or fascia; tightening is limited to the skin layer only
Possible Side Effects of Micro-Coring
- Temporary redness and swelling, which gradually subside
- Skin dryness and roughness (increased water intake is recommended)
- Mild itching
- Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
- Risk of infection or inflammation
- In rare cases, uneven skin texture or scarring
Pre-Treatment Guidelines
Before undergoing micro-coring treatment, the physician reviews the patient’s medical history and explains the procedure in detail. Patients are usually advised to follow these guidelines:
- Discontinue blood-thinning medications at least 3 days before treatment
- Avoid makeup and cleanse the face thoroughly prior to the session
- Refrain from smoking for several days before treatment
Post-Treatment Care
Skin healing typically begins within 3 to 4 days after the session. The skin gradually tightens, wrinkles diminish, collagen production increases, and the skin appears smoother and more youthful.
To achieve optimal results, physicians usually recommend:
- Applying petroleum jelly (Vaseline) for 24–48 hours after treatment
- Avoiding touching, scratching, or rubbing the treated area to prevent infection
- Avoiding makeup immediately after treatment
- Drinking adequate amounts of water to maintain skin hydration
- Avoiding direct sun exposure and hot showers
When Do Results Appear?
Initial results begin to appear a few days after the first session as the skin heals and becomes firmer and smoother. Final results typically become visible 2 to 3 months after the last session, as collagen and elastin production continues during this period, improving skin tightness and elasticity.
Who Is Not a Suitable Candidate for Micro-Coring?
Micro-coring treatment is not recommended for individuals with:
- Active chickenpox or contagious skin infections (treatment can be done after recovery)
- Actinic keratosis or suspicious skin lesions in the treatment area
- Open wounds or skin ulcers in the treatment area
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding (treatment is recommended after breastfeeding ends)
- Severe skin allergies
- Extremely thin or very thick skin
- Bleeding disorders
- Active acne (treatment can be performed after acne resolution)
