Press Release
The International Confederation of Plastic Surgery Societies World Congress 2025 (ICOPLAST) will welcome one of the most influential voices: Dr Des Fernandes, the Cape Town–based Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon widely recognised for pioneering the practice of medical, surgical, and cosmetic skin needling.
Dr Fernandes began clinically researching horizontal skin needling in 1994, with his first published results presented internationally by 1996. In 1997, he initiated vertical skin needling clinical trials in Cape Town on patients with acne scarring, burn scars and fine wrinkles, work that opened the door to a treatment now practised globally. His innovation of the world’s first roller devices, developed to enhance precision and safety, marked a defining moment in the evolution of needling.
What started as exploratory procedures on small areas of skin has grown into one of the safest, most effective and widely adopted techniques for treating scars, wrinkles, stretch marks and skin ageing. Today, needling, often referred to as Percutaneous Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT) or Micro-Needling, is a trusted procedure in both reconstructive and aesthetic practice worldwide.
“Skin Needling has transformed how we approach scarred or photo-aged skin. From its earliest days, my research showed that it was possible to stimulate true regeneration, not just repair,” says Dr Fernandes. “ICOPLAST is an opportunity to reflect on where we began, and more importantly, to look at where this science is going.”
Current research continues to build on the foundations laid by Dr Fernandes, demonstrating how timing, needle length, and the use of topical ingredients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and peptides can optimise clinical outcomes. Dr Fernandes’ lecture at ICOPLAST 2025 will trace the origins of skin needling, the scientific discoveries that underpin it, and the future opportunities for medical professionals worldwide.
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About ICOPLAST 2025
The 3rd ICOPLAST World Congress takes place from 17–19 September 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, hosted by the Association of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeons of Southern Africa (APRASSA). This prestigious event will bring together medical professionals from around the globe to share advances, showcase research, and engage in discussions on the latest developments in plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery. ICOPLAST is a non-profit organisation with a mission to improve patient outcomes worldwide through education, collaboration, and the advancement of high professional and ethical standards in plastic surgery.
About Dr Des Fernandes
Dr Des Fernandes is a Cape Town-based Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, internationally acclaimed for his pioneering work in medical and cosmetic Skin Needling as well as his scientific innovations in skin health. He founded Environ Skin Care in 1990, becoming one of the first medical professionals to harness the benefits of topical vitamin A and antioxidants in cosmetic formulations. Dr Fernandes has published extensively in medical and aesthetic journals, lectured globally, and remains at the forefront of research into skin regeneration, health and longevity. His lifelong commitment to innovation has influenced both surgical and non-surgical skincare worldwide.
About Environ Skin Care
Environ Skin Care is a globally recognised and loved professional skincare brand that is built on science, beauty and care. Since 1990, Environ has used the science of beauty to change the way the world sees skincare. The introduction of vitamin A to skincare formulations was a ground-breaking development, first successfully included in cosmetic products by world renowned Plastic Surgeon and Environ founder Dr Des Fernandes. His sister, Val Carstens, Environ’s Chairman, has built the brand from a dream to a global success. Today, Environ has over 140 products in more than 70 countries. Environ has received over 100 international awards, which have recognised the brand for its outstanding products, most recently being voted Top Medical Skincare Line in the highly revered Aesthetic Everything® Aesthetic and Cosmetic Medicine Awards for the eighth consecutive year.
