Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, works based on the skin's ability to heal itself.

1. Physical Punctures: Microneedling uses fine, sterile needles to create thousands of micro-injuries or punctures in the skin's top layer. These are essentially controlled wounds.
   
2. Inflammatory Response: These tiny wounds trigger the body's natural wound healing processes. Immediately after an injury, the skin initiates an inflammation response, which increases blood flow to the area and starts the production of key wound-healing elements, like collagen and elastin.
   
3. Tissue Formation: After the inflammatory phase, the skin enters a proliferative phase where fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen) work to fill and seal the wounds with new tissue. This phase leads to an increase in skin cell turnover, bringing fresh skin cells to the surface and helping rid the skin of older, damaged cells.
   
4. Remodeling Phase: Over time, the newly formed tissue is remodeled, leading to a firmer and more elastic skin matrix due to the increase in collagen and elastin fibers. This results in improved skin texture, firmness, and reduced appearance of scars, wrinkles, and other skin irregularities.
   
5. Enhanced Absorption: The micro-channels created during microneedling also aid in increasing the absorption of topical products. This allows for better penetration of serums or therapeutic agents, optimizing their benefits.
   

In essence, microneedling capitalises on the body's natural response to injury to rejuvenate the skin. This mechanism not only helps to improve the skin's appearance but also strengthens the skin matrix, making it healthier and more resilient.

The upward "flip" of the lip makes more of the lip's red or pink part visible, giving an illusion of fuller and slightly plumper lips without adding volume. This can be an option for those who want a more subtle enhancement than lip fillers or are curious about lip augmentation but aren't ready to commit to fillers.

The duration of a microneedling session can vary based on several factors, including the size of the treatment area, the specific concerns being addressed, and the protocol of the practitioner. Here's a general breakdown:

1. Consultation: If it's your first time receiving a microneedling treatment, the practitioner might begin with a consultation to discuss your skincare concerns and what you hope to achieve. This can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.
   
2. Preparation: Before the procedure starts, the skin needs to be cleansed thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup. This step might take around 5 to 10 minutes.
   
3. Topical Anesthetic: To minimize discomfort during the procedure, a topical numbing cream is often applied to the treatment area. This cream usually needs to be left on the skin for about 30 to 45 minutes to take full effect.
   
4. Microneedling Procedure: The actual microneedling process, where the practitioner uses the device to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin, typically takes 20 to 30 minutes for a full face treatment. If you're getting microneedling on a smaller area (like just the forehead or around the eyes), it might be quicker. If you're treating a larger area or multiple areas in one session, it could take longer.
   
5. Post-Treatment Application: After the procedure, the practitioner might apply a calming or hydrating serum or mask to soothe the skin and enhance the treatment's effects. This can add another 5 to 15 minutes.
   

Adding up these times, a typical microneedling session for the face can range from 60 to 120 minutes (1 to 2 hours), including numbing and post-treatment care. However, it's essential to note that times can vary based on individual clinic protocols, the specific device being used, and your needs.

Microneedling, often referred to as collagen induction therapy, offers a range of benefits for the skin. Here are some of the primary advantages:

1. Collagen Production: One of the most significant benefits of microneedling is the stimulation of collagen and elastin production. Collagen is a key protein that gives our skin its structure, and the production of new collagen can lead to a more plump and youthful complexion.
   
2. Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Thanks to its ability to stimulate collagen, microneedling can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leading to an improvement in overall skin texture.
   
3. Improves Scarring: Microneedling has been shown to be effective in reducing the appearance of atrophic scars, especially those caused by acne.
   
4. Reduces Hyperpigmentation and Sun Damage: Microneedling can help in evening out skin tone by reducing hyperpigmentation. It's especially beneficial for reversing sun damage and the pigmented spots associated with it.
   
5. Shrinks Pores: While microneedling punctures the skin, the collagen in the surrounding area will plump and thicken, causing pores to appear smaller.
   
6. Enhances Product Absorption: Post-microneedling, your skin can absorb skincare products more effectively. This means that topical creams and serums can penetrate deeper, maximizing their benefits.
   
7. Treats Alopecia: Some studies suggest that microneedling can be effective in treating hair loss conditions like alopecia when combined with other treatments.
   
8. Reduces Stretch Marks: Though more challenging to treat than other skin issues, microneedling can reduce the appearance of stretch marks, especially when combined with other treatments.
   
9. Improves Skin Texture: With regular sessions, the overall texture and quality of the skin can see marked improvement.
   
10. Natural Process: Microneedling harnesses the body's natural wound healing processes, which makes it a holistic approach to skin therapy.

It's worth noting that while microneedling offers various benefits, the results and efficacy can vary from person to person based on individual skin type, the specific concern being addressed, and the frequency and quality of treatments. Always consult with a professional before undergoing the procedure.

However, the effectiveness and safety of the procedure depend on the device used, the depth of needle penetration, the frequency of sessions, and the expertise of the practitioner.

As with all aesthetic treatments, the lip flip should be performed by a skilled and experienced injector to achieve the desired outcome and avoid complications.

Aftercare is essential to ensure optimal results from microneedling and to minimize potential side effects. Here's a general aftercare guideline for microneedling:

1. Gentle Cleansing: Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser to clean the treated area for the first 48 hours. Avoid scrubbing the skin.
   
2. Moisturize: The skin may feel drier than usual after microneedling. Apply a hydrating serum or moisturizer to help soothe the skin and lock in moisture. Products with hyaluronic acid are often recommended post-procedure.
   
3. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure: The skin will be more sensitive to the sun after microneedling. It's crucial to avoid direct sun exposure for at least a week after the treatment. If you must go out, wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
   
4. Avoid Makeup: It's generally advised to avoid applying makeup for at least 24 hours after the treatment to prevent skin irritation and clogging of the micro-channels.
   
5. Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from activities that cause excessive sweating, like heavy workouts, for at least 24 hours post-procedure.
   
6. No Swimming: It's recommended to avoid swimming in chlorinated pools for several days after the treatment.
   
7. Skip Other Facial Treatments: Avoid other facial treatments, such as chemical peels, facials, or laser treatments, until the skin has fully healed, which usually takes about a week.
   
8. Avoid Alcohol-Based Toners: For at least a week, skip toners or products that contain alcohol as they can be too drying and irritating for the skin.
   
9. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to help support the skin's healing process.
   
10. Avoid Picking or Scratching: The skin may feel slightly rough or develop tiny crusts in the days following treatment. It's essential not to pick, scratch, or exfoliate the skin during this time.
    
11. Notify Your Practitioner: If you experience prolonged redness, swelling, bleeding, or if any other unexpected side effects occur, it's important to contact the professional who provided the treatment.
    

Remember, individual aftercare advice can vary based on the depth and intensity of the microneedling procedure, any products or serums that were applied during or after the treatment, and individual skin type. It's always best to follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by the professional who performed the microneedling.