Collagen and elastin are integral proteins that maintain your skin structure. With age, their levels in your skin decrease, leading to signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. There are several skin treatment options available to stimulate skin proteins and prevent skin aging, but one of the most convenient and effective treatments is microneedling.1
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that stimulates collagen and elastin production in your skin. It effectively reduces fine lines and wrinkles and is safe for most skin types. You don’t have to worry about the risk of skin discoloration, which can occur with other laser or heat-based skin treatments. In addition, microneedling can not only improve your skin tone and texture but also reduce your acne scars.2
You can consult a qualified doctor to get it done or do it yourself at home using a microneedling pen. As microneedling technology continues to evolve, you’ll have greater access to various types of microneedling pens and devices. The latest microneedling device uses radiofrequency energy to boost collagen production in your skin and suppress signs of aging.3
The microneedling trend is here to stay as more and more people seek the benefits of this minimally invasive skin treatment. Read on to learn everything you need to know about microneedling, including its uses and the different types of microneedling pens on the market.
How Does Microneedling Work?
Microneedling or collagen induction therapy involves creating micro-injuries or tiny wounds in your skin using a small, pen-like device with multiple tiny needles.4 The needles puncture your skin surface in a controlled manner and go deep into your skin layers.
The treatment boosts your skin’s natural healing process and stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin fibers in your skin. These structural skin protein fibers heal your skin, improve its texture and appearance, and make you look younger.5
What Are Microneedling Uses?
Microneedling is popular for its many uses. First, it helps reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, giving you younger-looking skin. Apart from improving the overall texture, elasticity, and tone of your skin, microneedling also effectively heals your acne scars and reduces your stretch marks by stimulating collagen production.6
Additionally, you can use microneedling to treat skin hyperpigmentation. The tiny needles create channels in your skin that make it easier for skincare products to absorb into your skin. Finally, microneedling can also be used to stimulate your hair follicles and promote hair growth.7
Types of Microneedling Pens
There are several types of easy-to-use microneedling pens you can choose from, all of which come with unique features and benefits. Commonly available microneedling pens include:
- Dermapen: The Dermapen is an automated microneedling pen with adjustable needles that enter your skin at different depths. It’s suitable for addressing various skin concerns like acne, wrinkles, and stretch marks.8 In this category, one of the most popular products is the Sergan Microneedling Pen.
- Dermaroller: The Dermaroller is a cylindrical handheld device or a roller with needles that enters your skin vertically. You can roll it over your skin in different directions anywhere on the body.9 A popular Dermaroller is the Koi Beauty Derma Roller.
- Derma-stamp: This is a smaller version of a Dermaroller.10 Some of the most popular Derma-stamp brands on the market are Koi Beauty and Dr. Pen.
Learn More About Microneedling Tips and Skincare
You can try microneedling treatment at home using microneedling pens. But make sure that you avoid sun exposure and certain skincare products like retinol after the process to prevent your skin from becoming irritated. Stay hydrated to maintain your skin health. And be patient because it may take 3 to 6 months to see microneedling benefits and results.11
As with any other treatment, microneedling has some risks that you may find challenging to manage at home. These include skin irritation, infection, scarring, hyperpigmentation, peeling, bleeding, or bruising.12
So consider seeking help from a qualified and licensed skincare professional experienced in performing microneedling treatments. Instead of trying microneedling at home, you could consult a skin specialist and opt for an in-office procedure to minimize the risk of complications and ensure the best possible results.
To learn more tips and recent updates about skincare, visit My Skincare Routine and browse our repository of skincare articles today.
SOURCES:
- Cleveland Clinic: “Microneedling.”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Microneedling.”
- Indian Dermatology Online Journal: “Microneedling: Advances and widening horizons.”
- Healthline: “Microneedling: Collagen Induction Therapy.”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Microneedling.”
- Healthline: “Microneedling: Collagen Induction Therapy.”
- Healthline: “Microneedling: Collagen Induction Therapy.”
- Indian Dermatology Online Journal: “Microneedling: Advances and widening horizons.”
- Indian Dermatology Online Journal: “Microneedling: Advances and widening horizons.”
- Indian Dermatology Online Journal: “Microneedling: Advances and widening horizons.”
- Cleveland Clinic: “Microneedling.”
- Healthline: “Microneedling: Collagen Induction Therapy.”