What does your skin have in common with cakes and onions? Layers. And while there are a multitude of skin care products available, only a few can actually fully provide some form of nourishment to our epidermis without the extra help. This is where micro-needling comes in. An ancient care technique that now, with the modern Dermaroller, can bring a weekly full care session to a level of effectiveness not possible by simply rubbing of your hands. So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of the procedures available, how they work and their uses are.
The Basics of the Micro-Needling Process Itself
Before you can understand the micro-needling tools and the differences between them, you have to know how the process works. The idea is that a bunch of micro-needles are used to poke holes in the skin that are just barely big enough to see. Those holes go through every layer of skin, creating a conduit of sorts. That conduit can help any medicated creams, lotions, or serums to penetrate through each layer quickly. At the same time, your body will work to repair the tiny bit of damaged caused by the needles. In so doing, it will also repair some older damage, helping things like minor wrinkles and scars to heal.
Unlike aesthetic-equipment that uses laser light, micro-needling tools don’t produce a lot of heat. That makes them generally a better choice if you have excessive skin oils or any other problems that make you a poor candidate for laser treatment.
How Each Micro-Needling Tool Works
The three main types of micro-needling tools are Dermarollers, Dermastamps, and Dermapens. The pens are typically the smallest, and they look similar to actual pens that you might use to write on paper. The difference is that micro-needling pens have tiny heads studded with even smaller needles, which typically rotate or spin.
Dermastamps are a lot like the pens, except that they have wider heads and don’t generally rotate. The technician can simply move them around as needed, stamping your skin. Since they are larger, they are used to treat bigger areas, while the Dermapens might be used for spot treatments.
As for Dermarollers, they are available in multiple sizes, but they all look like miniature paint rollers covered in needles. They are rolled across the skin to achieve the desired result.
At-Home Micro-Needling is an Option
Another thing to be aware of is that you can technically perform micro-needling on yourself at home. There are home kits available to help you do that. However, many people don’t want to use needles of any kind on their own bodies, and the results you get at a clinic with trained professional assistance are likely to be better.
Micro-Needling Technicians Will Numb Your Skin
If you are concerned about any pain that might be associated with micro-needling, you should know that clinics have numbing serums and creams available. Your technician will apply one to your skin before the procedure to minimize your discomfort. It may take as much as an hour for the area to become numb and be ready for the procedure.
Micro-Needling is a Fairly Involved Process
As you can see, micro-needling is not simple or basic. It is a process, and it’s the type of process that requires a lot of thought, research, and preparation. Be prepared to spend over two hours at your appointment, make multiple appointments if necessary, and spend a few days recovering from each appointment. Your skincare professional can tell you how best to prepare and maximize your chances of healthier skin and a faster recovery.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission guidelines concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising.