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Two of the most highly requested in-office treatments are now available from the comfort of home - no appointment required. We've got the low down on each.
Microneedling - Microneedling is the process of using needles to penetrate the skin in order to stimulate a natural regenerative process and promote cellular turnover to create new, bouncy skin cells. Microneedling treatments can be performed at doctor’s offices or at home. In-office treatments traditionally use larger needles but they also come equipped with a trained doctor who is administering the treatment. At-home microneedling treatments contain tiny needles due to user-operation (the doctor isn’t included in purchase). The tiny needles create painless and imperceptible pathways in the skin that allow skincare to absorb more deeply rather than stopping at the epidermal layer.
Microdermabrasion - Microdermabrasion is typically performed by a trained professional who uses a machine that non-invasively exfoliates the skin while simultaneously suctioning off the dead skin cells. Results are often tone based meaning users are looking to target unevenness, age spots, dark spots and dull complexions. The process can also be performed at home with handheld microdermabrasion devices, but the depth of exfoliation is less than what is achieved in doctor’s offices.
How often can I do each treatment at home?
Microneedling - After doing a spot treatment to ensure your skin doesn’t have any sensitivities, at-home microneedling treatments can be performed regularly, even daily as the skin is not shedding layers, so over-exposure to the sun’s rays isn’t a concern. Think of it as vertical exfoliation rather than horizontal (shaving); dead skin layers aren’t being sloughed off like in traditional exfoliation processes, so it’s less invasive.
Microdermabrasion - As with any exfoliation product, recommended usage is 2-3 per week max because that top layer of skin needs time to recover and regenerate between uses.
Do I have to do anything to prepare my skin for treatment?
Microneedling - Just a clean face is needed, including total makeup removal prior to microneedling.
Microdermabrasion - Some preparations may be required if you go for an in-office treatment such as avoiding waxing, excessive sun exposure and other exfoliating procedures/products for a few days prior to treatment. For at-home use, though the exfoliating is less intense, you still want to avoid exfoliation and excessive sun exposure prior to treating. Your doctor may require stoppage on any use of Retinol-based products causing an interruption to your skincare routine.
Should I have a show lined up to binge-watch or can I make plans afterward?
Microneedling - Just apply your normal skincare routine - serums, oils and moisturizers welcome. Recommended use is at night as the face usually appears a little flushed afterward, which isn’t always a great day look. But, you can microneedle as part of your morning routine, just build in a few extra min for your flush to fade and be sure to apply an SPF.
Microdermabrasion - There is definitely a level of sun sensitivity after receiving microdermabrasion whether at home or in-office, but severity depends on your skin type. Sunscreen is your best friend afterwards for a few weeks, but you can resume your day-to-day activities almost immediately (within a few hours) post treatment.
*For both treatments - It’s always wise to check with your dermatologist about mixing in any prescription treatments or retinol use.
Will I still be able to afford groceries?
Don’t return the DiGiorno just yet, but do your research before jumping in. Just like any other purchase, there are different commitment levels with associated price points ranging from manual tools with no extra frills starting at $30 to in-home machines for $1,600. GloPRO® comes pre-packed with maintenance and power accessories and 5 clarifying Prep Pads to use before GloPRO-ing, but we recommend replacing the attachment heads every three months with regular use. Both treatments require long-term investment, but you’re looking at the price of a replacement MicroTip™ head ($35) vs the price of treatments.
So what you’re saying is….
Ultimately, it’s down to your goals. Just like at the gym, have that convo with yourself about short and long-term skincare goals and decide what works best with your schedule/life to help you achieve them. It shouldn’t be overwhelming, it should be a small part of your daily routine that creates lasting results.