The Dangers of Microneedling at Home
At first, microneedling or derma-rolling can sound counterintuitive — it involves picking the skin with tiny needles to create microscopic tears. However, these tears stimulate the body’s production of collagen and elastin, contributing to cell turnover. The result is stronger, smoother skin that minimizes the look of acne, scars, stretch marks, wrinkles and other blemishes. This form of skincare has become exceedingly popular in recent years, with celebrities and medical practitioners alike lauding its uses. In fact, it has become so widespread that you can find at-home microneedling pens and kits online or in stores that sell skincare products. But just because you can complete microneedling at home doesn’t mean you should.
Is Microneedling at Home Safe?
Microneedling can be a safe, effective skin treatment when done by a professional, but microneedling at home can bring with it a range of complications. You may think doing this treatment at home can save you some money in the long run, but in this case, you truly get what you pay for.
Microneedling at home can lead to:
- Deep wounds: Microneedling is only supposed to penetrate a few millimeters into the skin. Without proper guidance, most people either don’t go deep enough to stimulate meaningful collagen production or go too deep and end up causing wounds that scar and damage their skin.
- Irritation: While irritation can occur regardless of the setting, it’s less likely when professionals manage your care. Furthermore, skilled experts can monitor your skin and determine whether the irritation is normal or indicative of an issue that may require medical attention.
- Infection: Though the lesions that come with microneedling are microscopic, they are still open wounds that can let in dirt and bacteria. An unregulated environment can invite dangerous particles into your system that can cause infections and, at the worst, make you sick and leave long-lasting scars.
Using a Microneedling Pen at Home vs. Professional Services
At-home microneedling opens you up to more injuries and the chance of infection and longer healing times. Furthermore, the equipment you find in stores cannot compare to the tools doctors use in their practices — over-the-counter tools usually have shorter, duller needles that produce inferior results. Plus, there’s no guarantee that they are safe for the skin.
When you choose microneedling treatment at a med spa like Face Forward Aesthetics, you’re receiving an FDA-approved procedure in a safe, sanitary location with professional equipment and certified practitioners. Our doctors and nurses have spent years studying and practicing these aesthetic treatments. And since there’s minimal risk of injury, your skin can start healing sooner and deliver results faster.
Receive Microneedling From Trained Professionals
Professional microneedling can save you from excess pain and more serious medical complications. When it comes to your skin and whole body health, leave your care in the hands of the experts at Face Forward Aesthetics. Our doctors and nurses will be happy to discuss microneedling options or any other treatment in our services menu with you. Don’t take chances with your skin by microneedling at home. Book an appointment with us today.
Mallory Keebler MSN, FNP-C
Mallory Keebler, MSN, FNP-C is a certified Nurse Practitioner and works in our Blue Ash, OH office. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Cincinnati, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Duke University, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Gardner-Webb University. Prior to working at Face Forward Aesthetics, Mallory worked in direct patient care with the inpatient pediatric population. Most of her previous career was spent at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center on the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit. She also took part in travel nursing at the nation's top children's hospitals including Boston Children's Hospital, Texas Children's Hospital, and Ann & Robert Lurie Children's Hospital. Mallory is passionate about patient education and helping patients look and feel their best. She is an avid sports fan, foodie, and loves spending time with her husband, daughter, and Labrador retriever.
