Microneedling, also known as dermarolling, is an effective skin rejuvenation procedure used to boost collagen, treat hyperpigmentation, reduce scarring, and much more. This collagen induction therapy has been around since the late 1990s and has evolved over the years to include different types and depths of devices, including home-use devices. Today, I’ll go over how you can microneedle at home and give you some great tips and tricks along the way.
- What Is Microneedling?
- What Are The Benefits Of Microneedling
- Does Microneedling Work For Acne Scars?
- How Do I Microneedle At Home?
- What To Avoid When Microneedling
- How Do I Take Care Of My Skin After Microneedling?
- How Often Can I Microneedle At Home?
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure utilizing a roller or stamp with thin needles that make shallow punctures in the top layer of the skin. The process creates superficial damage to the skin, triggering the natural wound-healing process. This, in turn, stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to firm and smooth the skin, among many other benefits.
What are the Benefits of Microneedling?
- Improves Skin Texture
- Reduces Scarring
- Fades Hyperpigmentation
- Boosts Collagen
- Increases Hydration
- Enhances Product Penetration
- Includes minimal to no downtime
Does Microneedling Work for Acne Scars?
Microneedling does indeed reduce acne scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Clinical studies have shown that microneedling for acne scars is more effective than ablative laser resurfacing and just as effective as non-ablative treatments like CO2 lasers in stimulating collagen and elastin production.
How Do I Microneedle at Home?
Follow the instructions below for using your at-home microneedling device:
Cleanse the skin twice to remove all makeup and oil, then pat dry.
Working one section of the face at a time, generously apply your preferred microneedling solution. We have several options available from AnteAge, or you can use NeoGenesis Recovery Serum.
While the skin is still wet, begin to needle the skin using gentle but very firm strokes.
- Roll the skin vertically 5 times.
- Next, roll the skin horizontally 5 times.
- Finally, roll the skin diagonally 5 times.
*When using a stamp, stamp each area 5 times.
The skin should be pink when you finish. If it is not, complete the cycle again. You can also cycle twice over problem areas.
Check out Jeana’s video for more in-depth instruction.
WHAT TO AVOID WHEN MICRONEEDLING
- Never microneedle with active, inflamed acne or any skin irritations. Wait until you have been clear from breakouts for 6 months to proceed with treatments.
- If you are prone to hyperpigmentation, we recommend using a device such as the Skin Wand Pro. This device utilizes a silicone tip that does not puncture the skin.
- When choosing a microneedling solution, be sure to choose ingredients that are naturally occurring in the skin, such as hyaluronic acid, stem cells, and peptides. You do not want to needle in any actives such as acids or retinol, etc.
- Be sure to use ample sun protection when using microneedling treatments, as your skin will be more sensitive and prone to sun damage.
- Avoid working out or going in hot tubs or saunas for at least 24 hours after your treatment.
How Do I Take Care of My Skin After Microneedling?
Directly after your treatment, I recommend spritzing with Le Mieux ISO-Cell Recovery Solution and applying either NeoGenesis Booster Serum or Le Mieux Hyaluronic Serum, which will hasten the healing process and increase the penetration of Microneedling Solution.
It is recommended to wait 5 hours before applying anything else to your skin. After 5 hours, apply AnteAGE Serum and Accelerator, NeoGenesis Barrier Renewal Cream, or the moisturizer of your choice.
If you are currently using retinol or acids in your skincare routine, I recommend waiting 48 hours after treatment to resume using those products.
When microneedling, it is imperative to use ample sun protection during the day.
How Often Can I Microneedle at Home?
Microneedling may be repeated 1 to 3 times per week. If you stimulate some light flaking, do not roll again until the flaking has subsided.
Unsure where to start? Reach out for a free skincare checkup, and our licensed estheticians will optimize your routine for the best results. We’ll be here every step of the way!
Comments (4)
Hi! Can you microneedle with active acne? Or just avoid those areas? I currently use Face Reality products.
Thank you!
Hi Leah,
No! You can never microneedle when you have active or inflamed acne. Microneedling is something that you can do after you are staying clear for 6 months.
Please send me info on this product and how it’s used
You can find more information by clicking the product links at the end of the article for the specific product you are interested in.