To perform at-home Dr. Pen microneedling, first ensure you are a good candidate and have stopped using strong retinoids or anti-inflammatories. Cleanse and disinfect your skin, and use a fresh, new cartridge on the pen. Apply a gliding serum, set your desired needle depth, and stamp the device in vertical, horizontal, and diagonal patterns with light pressure, holding it in place briefly. After treatment, apply hyaluronic acid, and for the next 24 hours, avoid makeup, sweating, and sun exposure, while also using high-SPF sunscreen.
Before Treatment
- Check if you're a candidate: Do not microneedle if you have allergies, bleeding disorders, or certain skin conditions like active acne or melanosis.
- Stop certain products: Avoid retinoids, vitamin A, and anti-inflammatory tablets for 3-5 days before your treatment.
- Cleanse and disinfect: Wash your hands and gently cleanse your face to remove impurities.
- Disinfect tools: Wipe down the Dr. Pen handle and any other tools with rubbing alcohol.
- Apply a numbing cream: (Optional) Apply an over-the-counter numbing cream if desired and follow its directions for application.
During Treatment
-
Attach the cartridge:Open a new, sterile cartridge packet, ensure you don't touch the needles, and twist it onto your Dr. Pen device.
-
Set your depth:Adjust the dial on the pen to your desired needle depth, using a guide if necessary.
-
Apply serum:Apply a generous amount of hyaluronic acid serum to your face to act as a glide and prevent dragging.
-
Needle the skin:
- Hold your free hand on the skin to keep it taut.
- Gently stamp the pen straight down onto the skin.
- Work in a pattern of vertical, then horizontal, then diagonal lines in both directions.
- Move in small sections, applying serum to each new area before needling.
-
Hold briefly:Lightly press the pen and hold it in place for a second or two before lifting, but do not drag the pen.
After Treatment
- Apply serum: Immediately apply hyaluronic acid to the treated area for hydration.
- Avoid certain activities: For 24 hours, refrain from applying makeup, exercising, sweating, or swimming.
- Use sunscreen: Apply a high-protection sunscreen if you must go outside to prevent sun damage.
- Gentle care: Use a mild cleanser and a nourishing, fragrance-free moisturizer.
- Be patient: Mild redness, swelling, and even a small amount of bleeding are normal and should subside. Avoid active ingredients like retinol or acids for at least 24-48 hours.