Microchanneling & Collagen Induction Therapy in Windsor
At Hideaway Spa, our Procell Microchanneling treatment — an advanced evolution of microneedling that uses a precise stamping method rather than dragging needles — pairs precision microchannels with professionally formulated growth-factor serums to stimulate collagen, improve texture, reduce acne and surgical scarring, and refine skin tone — typically with less downtime than traditional approaches. 2
What is Procell Microchanneling? (short version)
Procell microchanneling is a safe, in-clinic skin treatment that creates tiny, controlled channels in the skin and then applies medical-grade growth-factor serums directly into those channels. The tiny channels kick off natural healing (collagen and elastin production) while the serums give the skin extra biological signals to rebuild more effectively. 1
Why choose Procell? Simply put: it combines a gentle, controlled injury with proven, clinic-grade serums so your skin gets both the mechanical stimulus to rebuild and the biological ingredients to do it well. The result is faster recovery and more consistent results compared with older needling tools. 6
Microchanneling uses a stamping or linear approach to make uniform vertical channels; pen/roller microneedling can drag or shear tissue which may increase lateral trauma. This is part of why microchanneling often shows quicker visible recovery. 2
Downtime
Immediate redness is normal; many clients report noticeable reduction in visible redness within a few hours, and most report only mild tenderness for 24–48 hours. Strict sun protection and the provided aftercare support optimal healing. 6
Serum Delivery
The channels improve absorption of high-value topical growth factors and peptides compared with topical products applied to intact skin. This is not just "better delivery" — pairing micro-injury with formulated growth factors amplifies the regenerative signalling pathways triggered by collagen induction therapies. 3
Best For
Fine lines, texture, post-inflammatory and surgical scars, pigmentation, and many forms of thin-surface scarring. Deeper volume loss or severe laxity may need adjunctive or medical-grade treatments. 2
What Microchanneling Can Treat
Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Stimulates collagen deposition over weeks for improved tone and decreased lines. Repeated sessions encourage matrix remodelling and firmer skin over months. 2
Acne Scarring & Texture
Atrophic acne scars remodel with repeated treatments; literature supports needling-based therapies for scar improvement, particularly when combined with targeted serums. Some deep pitted scars may be too deep for microchanneling alone — in those cases we offer thermolysis as an alternative or complementary option. Learn about thermolysis.
Surgical & Traumatic Scars (often larger)
Surgical and linear scars commonly respond very well to precision microchanneling when treated in a series — especially when the microchannels are used to deliver growth-factor serums that encourage dermal remodelling. We recommend reviewing your specific scar photos during consultation; we've had excellent results with surgical scars in our gallery.
Pigmentation & Sun Damage
Improves tone by supporting controlled epidermal turnover and enabling deeper delivery of brightening actives in professional serums. Pairing with tailored homecare limits recurrence and supports long-term results. 3
Hair Restoration (on request)
Microchanneling can assist certain hair restoration protocols when paired with appropriate growth-factor serums. As we primarily deal with skin conditions, at this time we do not typically stock hair-serum formulations. If you are interested, you may contact us and discusse placing an order for a treatment.
How Procell Microchanneling Works — user-friendly science
Controlled micro-channels trigger a wound-healing cascade — platelet activation, growth-factor signalling, fibroblast proliferation and new collagen/elastin deposition. Where Procell stands apart is the simultaneous, standardized application of formulated growth-factor serums (clinically designed blends) directly into those freshly created channels — providing biologic cues that complement the mechanical induction. This results in synergistic regeneration, rather than simply "creating holes" and waiting for the skin to do everything itself. 6
Technical deep-dive (expanded)
Histologic & cellular response
Controlled micro-injuries produce an inflammation → proliferation → remodelling cascade. Histology after collagen induction therapies shows increased dermal thickness, fibroblast activity and new collagen deposition over weeks to months — the basis for long-term texture improvement. 2
Growth factors & topical serums
Procell serums are formulated blends of growth factors, peptides and anti-inflammatory components intended to accelerate the proliferation & remodelling phase when placed directly into microchannels. Using the full bottle per treatment (the practice we follow) ensures a consistent therapeutic dose is available to the skin during the most biologically active window. The immediate application of a hyaluronic-acid sheet mask after treatment provides intensive hydration that supports barrier repair while proteins and peptides signal dermal remodelling. The mask remains for a minimum of 15 minutes and ideally 30 minutes to maximise hydration and soothing. Additional take-home serums extend the effect for 10–14 days. 3
Micro-channel pharmacokinetics
Experimental microchannel and dissolving microneedle research shows labelled molecules penetrate deeper and at higher local concentrations when delivered through microchannels compared with topical application alone. This enhanced local concentration helps explain why paired clinical protocols often show better outcomes than topical-only regimens. 3
Device mechanics matter
Stamping/linear channeling reduces lateral shear vs dragging needles. Operator technique, tip geometry and consistent pressure are critical to creating predictable channels and minimizing risk. 2
Safety & pigmentation risk
Needling is low risk when performed correctly. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is possible, particularly in higher Fitzpatrick types; preventive measures (pre-conditioning, sun avoidance, strict aftercare) reduce risk. 5
Practical takeaways
Expect short-lived but visible redness immediately after the treatment; many clients see marked reduction in visible redness within hours to a day.
Best outcomes are usually achieved with 3–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart, tailored to the concern and scar depth. 2
We always supply a 10–14 day homecare kit (included) to support healing and prolong the effects of the treatment; additional kits available by advanced order.
Strict photoprotection post-procedure (and avoiding strong actives for a week) helps limit pigmentation and supports collagen maturation.
Procell MD serums are medical-grade formulations featuring growth factors derived from lab-cultured human stem cells, combined with peptides, humectants and antioxidants. Delivered directly through the microchannels created during treatment, they provide targeted biological signals and hydration — helping the skin repair more effectively with smoother, brighter and firmer results, often with less downtime.
Maximizes results — delivers actives precisely where the skin can absorb and use them most.
Boosts renewal — stem cell–derived growth factors and peptides support collagen and elastin production.
Refines texture & scars — visibly improves acne marks, surgical scars and skin tone irregularities.
Key ingredient groups: stem cell–derived growth factors & peptides; hyaluronic acid and humectants; antioxidants & vitamins; calming botanicals and anti-inflammatories.
Best for: clients seeking clinically advanced improvement in scarring, tone, fine lines, and overall skin quality.
Applied immediately during your Procell treatment for superior absorption — your esthetician will select the ideal Procell MD serum blend for your skin.
Session length, step-by-step process & aftercare
During the session — what we do (step-by-step)
Consultation & mapping: We review your history, photos and targets. Measurements and settings are customized to scar depth and skin type.
Cleanse: Gentle cleansing to remove oils and debris.
Prep & antisepsis: Two passes of alcohol wipes over the treatment area to ensure a sterile field.
Microchanneling: We create microchannels using the Procell device. The device uses single-use tips and a stamping/linear motion to produce uniform vertical channels.
Immediate serum application: In conjunction with using the device, we apply a full bottle of professional growth-factor serum.
Hyaluronic acid sheet mask: A medical-grade HA sheet mask is applied and left for a minimum of 15 minutes (ideally 30 minutes) to deliver intense hydration and barrier support during the early healing phase.
Homecare kit issued: Clients receive a curated 10–14 day kit with morning/evening instructions to maintain the benefits and support healing.
Aftercare (concise)
Keep the treated area clean and hydrated; use only products provided in the kit for the first 10–14 days.
Avoid retinoids, acids, and aggressive exfoliants for 5–7 days (or per provider advice).
Wait ~90 minutes before applying mineral makeup if needed.
Use broad-spectrum SPF daily once healed; sun avoidance during the first week is strongly recommended.
Procell Serums vs PRP ("Vampire Facials") — balanced, evidence-informed view
Many clients ask how Procell microchanneling with professional growth-factor serums compares to microneedling combined with autologous PRP (platelet-rich plasma). The short, practical answer: both approaches use growth factors to stimulate repair, but they differ in source, standardization, logistics and some reported outcomes. We present a balanced summary below so you can make an informed decision.
Key differences
Source & standardization: PRP is autologous (from the patient's blood) — concentration varies with preparation technique and patient factors. Procell serums are lab-formulated, standardized preparations designed for consistent dosing and specific peptide/growth-factor profiles. (Manufacturer data and product notes describe these design choices.) 1
Procedure logistics: PRP requires a blood draw, processing and sometimes a longer chair-time. Procell avoids the blood draw and delivers ready-to-use serums immediately after channeling. Many clients prefer the reduced complexity and increased comfort. 6
Evidence on efficacy: Clinical literature shows mixed but promising results for PRP in facial rejuvenation; some high-quality studies show benefit from pairing PRP with microneedling for acne scarring, while other studies find little added advantage of topical PRP over microneedling alone. Importantly, readymade growth-factor formulations have been compared to PRP in different settings — some show comparable efficacy while offering logistical and consistency advantages. This mixed evidence supports a nuanced, patient-specific approach rather than a blanket "one is always better." 5
Age & biological variability: The concentration and activity of growth factors in PRP can decline with age and with certain health conditions; this makes PRP potency variable between patients — a key consideration when comparing autologous PRP versus standardized, lab-formulated serums.
Note: age and overall health materially affect the concentration and activity of growth factors in autologous PRP — this is a useful row to include if you create a comparison chart (it helps clients understand variability between PRP and standardized serums).
Practical recommendation for patients
If you prefer a minimally invasive session without a blood draw and want consistent, clinic-formulated dosing that is optimized for microchannel delivery, Procell is an excellent choice. If you favor autologous biologics and are comfortable with the variability and extra logistics, PRP is a reasonable alternative and may be appropriate in some cases (often used in combination protocols). During your consultation we'll discuss your goals and recommend the approach that best matches your skin, medical history and recovery preferences. 2
Who is a good candidate & contraindications
Good candidates: Adults seeking resurfacing, scar improvement (acne or surgical), pore refinement, or pigmentation improvement. Contraindications: active infection, recent isotretinoin (6–12 months depending on case), bleeding disorders, uncontrolled inflammatory disease, active cold sores, recent ablative resurfacing, or pregnancy without consult. 2
Risks & realistic expectations
Short-term redness and mild swelling are common; pigment changes can occur in some skin types if aftercare and sun avoidance are not followed. Serious complications (infection, scarring) are rare when the procedure is performed in a sterile clinic setting by a trained operator. 5
Pricing
Current pricing (confirm at booking):
$325 — Single Procell Microchanneling session (face)
$1,100 — 4-session bundle (recommended for best results & value)
$150 — Add-on: Secondary area, eg. hands, décolletage, arms, etc (uses a second serum bottle)
You can either pay the full $1,100 upfront for the 4-session bundle, or pay three single-session payments of $325 and receive the fourth session at a discounted $125 (total $1,100).
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions will I need?
You'll often notice some improvement after the first session and more visible change after two. Many clients achieve meaningful results early, but deeper texture or scars typically improve more with a short course. We commonly recommend 3–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for deeper concerns, but some clients are satisfied with the earlier improvements after 1–2 sessions.
Is the take-home kit included?
Yes. A 10–14 day take-home kit is included with each treatment and contains morning/evening serums and barrier products we recommend immediately after the in-clinic protocol. Additional kits may be purchased by advanced order; please inquire at booking for supply and timing.
How are serums handled during the treatment?
We use the full professional treatment bottle(s) during the session. The immediate hyaluronic-acid sheet mask further protects and hydrates the skin while healing begins.
Can microchanneling be done on active acne?
Active inflammatory acne should be controlled before proceeding. Microchanneling is used to treat post-inflammatory scarring and texture after active inflammation resolves.
How long until I can wear makeup?
Most people can apply mineral makeup about 90 minutes after treatment (following the device protocol), but we recommend waiting 24 hours if possible and using only products recommended in the take-home kit during the first 48 hours.
Is it safe for darker skin tones?
Yes — with appropriate settings and careful pre/post care. We screen and tailor each treatment to reduce pigmentation risk.
Before & After — Photos
Scar Treatment Results
Texture Improvement Results
Texture Improvement Results
Meet Erika — The Skin Witch
Erika has over 14 years of experience in advanced skincare and has worked alongside dermatology teams using lasers and thermolysis. She takes an evidence-informed, personalized approach in a private studio. Learn more →
Consent & photography
Informed consent is required. We request before/after photos only with client permission. Medical issues or suspicious lesions will be referred to a medical specialist prior to elective treatment.
Book & Contact
Ready to book or have a question? You may view our other Services here, schedule online through ourBooking page or Contact us. Please note treatment areas in booking notes so we can allocate appropriate time.