Here's What You Need To Know Before Microneedling At Home

Microneedling is the skincare craze that has recently taken Instagram and TikTok by storm; it seems as if everyone is microneedling their skin. But what is microneedling, does it really work, and is it safe to perform at home?

According to Healthline, this dermaroller procedure utilizes tiny needles to prick the skin, with the purpose being to help to encourage the regeneration of new collagen and skin tissue, offering healthier, firmer and smoother skin as a result. Professional microneedling can also be used to treat scarring, enlarged pores, and to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

In a bid to cut costs, there is a trend of performing microneedling at home using a DIY derma rolling device, rather than having the procedure performed by a professional. 

Considering adding at-home microneedling to your skincare routine? Before you do, make sure that you're clued up about the ins and outs of process and how to safely use microneedling on your skin at home. 

Dermatologist, Melissa K. Levin, told Glamour that ""Microneedling is the creation of small micro-channels and injuries to your skin with acupuncture-size needles."

She went on to explain, "Your body will respond to these micro-injuries naturally by stimulating and producing collagen, which can treat fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, stretch marks, acne scars, and textural concerns."

According to blogger Anna Mae Groves, there are various types of microneedling; two of the most popular options are using a dermaroller — a tiny wheel with small, sharp needles sticking out of it which can be rolled across the skin — or using a derma pen – an electric or battery operated device that has a tip made of multiple needles that move quickly up and down, pricking the skin.

You can purchase a range DIY microneedling tools online or from your local beauty store. However, it's important to properly research a microneedling tool before you buy it, to ensure that it's safe to use and comes with good reviews. 

As per Healthline, the microneedling tools used during a professional procedure tend to puncture skin deeper, whereas the DIY tools are far less invasive and create much shallower channels within the skin. 

A lot of people prefer the idea of DIY microneedling as the procedure seems less painful as the needles do not penetrate the skin as deeply. However, according to Healthline, you won't achieve the same results with at home microneedling as you would with professional treatment.

It's also important to remember that when performed in a professional environment, all of the microneedling tools have been properly sanitized and disinfected. If you fail to properly cleanse your microneedling tools, you may introduce harmful bacteria into your skin, causing infection. If you do choose to microneedle at home, it's important to take cleanliness seriously, ensuring that all tools are properly sanitized before use and that gloves are worn during the procedure.