At-Home Microneedling, Yikes!
Microneedling is an extremely popular skin treatment that can help treat the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, large pores, and the skin’s overall appearance. You've probably seen videos of the treatment and before and after photos on Instagram - the afters revealing a smooth, bright, clear complexion. So what could be the problem with at-home Microneedling? Quite a lot! We've already discussed the difference between Microneedling and Dermarollers (as if those aren't bad enough) but now we are seeing a "professional" Microneedling pen called Dr. Pen that is available to the public. Let's dive into everything that is wrong with a "professional" at-home microneedling pen.
What is Microneedling?
Automated Microneedling (also known as Collagen Induction Therapy or CIT) is a professional procedure for the treatment of fine lines, acne scars, and improvement of the skin’s overall appearance. The skin’s repair process results in a thicker dermis with the appearance of softer wrinkles, smoother skin, and even smaller pores! Using the Collagen P.I.N, hyaluronic acid is applied to the skin and tiny needles are used to create controlled micro-injuries to the skin in order to produce collagen and elastin. The feeling associated with microneedling is similar to light sandpaper being moved across the skin. While some areas are more sensitive than others, we apply a topical numbing agent to help with any discomfort. The procedure typically takes 45 minutes total for the face, however the time varies based on what area is being treated.
Why should you not use At-Home Microneedling Devices:
1. Safety
Safety is the most important thing when it comes to performing skincare treatments. An in-office Microneedling treatment is performed by trained Medical Estheticians or Registered Nurses. They are certified to know how to safely and effectively give you great results. This is very different from Dr. Pen, where you would be performing the service on yourself at home. The general public is not trained/certified to do microneedling. And no, YouTube videos can not teach you properly! While performing on yourself, you can not reach certain angles of the pen correctly to the contours of your face, creating unsightly track marks and prolonged healing.
2. Sterilization
Sterilization is extremely important when it comes to microneedling. Not only do you need to make sure your face is completely clean before, but you also have to make sure you are keeping the needles sterile during the treatment. It is also very important to keep your face clean and protected post treatment. When we finish the procedure in the office, we put a "liquid bandage" on your skin to keep all those open wounds clean.
There has been cases where individuals will get staph infections because they are not taking all sanitary precautions. Please do not risk the "cheap" at-home alternatives.
3. Needle Depth
Needle depth is something that can be adjusted with Microneedling Pens. Professionals are trained to know how deep to go in which area of the face and how many passes you can do. The general public does not. They could hurt themselves, prolong their downtime, and worse of all, create more damage to the skin.
If you want dramatic and SAFE results in only a few treatments, please see a properly trained and certified Esthetician! We'll be able to recommend a treatment plan for you that will help you reach your skin goals.
For More Information:
For more information please contact us at ZONA Med Spa. Or book a consultation online by clicking here
