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Microneedling: What You Need To Know Before You Try It

Should you try microneedling?

If you’re not immersed in the sometimes-bizarre world of beauty trends, the practice of microneedling will look strange to say the least.

Also called collagen induction therapy, the treatment is gaining popularity thanks to its incredible results in the production of collagen and reducing fine lines. Microneedling also encourages your skin to absorb products more effectively, lightens acne scars and brown spots, and even reduces pore size. Sounds like a one-stop shop for perfect skin, right?

People who subscribe to the practice of microneedling roll a device called a dermaroller over their skin. It looks like a teenie tiny torture device with little metal spikes that are intended to stimulate skin and increase collagen production.

The burning question we all have is, does it work? The answer is a little murky because, like any treatment, it won’t solve everyone’s skincare woes.

If you’re currently in the market for a microneedling treatment, you have two options: at-home microneedling or a professional treatment with a dermatologist.

Below, we break down these two options to help you determine if microneedling is for you and what the pros and cons are.

OPTION 1: At-Home Microneedling

We all love a cheaper at-home version of a pricey procedure, however, you don’t have to conduct in-depth research to know the DIY version will never be as effective as professional treatment.

This is the deal with at-home microneedling: A lot of positive reviews exist defending its efficacy and they may very well be true. The microneedling devices for at-home use use needles less than 1mm in length while professional devices may use needles between 1-3mm. The length does have some correlation to effectiveness but people are advised not to use a needle longer than 1mm at home. That being said, you’ve probably guessed that it will take much longer to see results versus a professional treatment.

After all, you’re puncturing your skin with a foreign object and that shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Adding at-home microneedling to your skincare routine may be beneficial following a professional procedure and only if you do it properly and take precautions as to not cause infection or spread bacteria. After all, you’re puncturing your skin with a foreign object and that shouldn’t be taken lightly. There’s an art to dermarolling so following instructions is paramount to getting good results.

Ultimately, there are few definitive controlled scientific studies that prove microneedling works but you have the word of many beauty enthusiasts and the low-risk price tag associated with the at-home device.

Another pro is that it’s a non-invasive procedure so you’ll experience little to no downtime.

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OPTION 2: Professional Microneedling

Professional microneedling is the way to go if you want to see noticeable results. Dermatologists will use longer needles that provide more controlled wounding and therefore, better results.

A trained professional will also ensure the device is properly sterilized so you don’t end up with nasty consequences. Better results mean you don’t have to do it as often, and one treatment every couple of months should be sufficient unless you have deep acne scars or brown spots that need more care. At-home microneedling usually requires multiple weekly sessions before you see any obvious improvements.

Finally, the cost of a professional microneedling treatment is probably the biggest deterrent. Be prepared to shell out anywhere between $250-$350 per treatment. The use of the longer needle also means slightly more irritation and redness so you may not be able to go about your business immediately after.

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