Microneedling Pen | HydraRollers.com
Getting clear skin has never been so easy with a microneedling pen (also known as a derma pen). It can be used to give your skin a smoother and firmer look, hiding the appearance of wrinkles and smoothing out acne scars. There are many different types of microneedling pens on the market today, and finding the one that is best for you just takes some research.
I’ve tested dozens of the leading products on the market to determine the best mircroneedling pens you can buy today.
Note: While there are at-home microneedling pens available for purchase (our recommendations below), using a derma roller is generally considered the cheaper and safer alternative for at-home use. For that reason, I’d recommend trying our top derma roller pick before considering a microneedling pen.
What is a microneedling pen?
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that could help treat several skin-related problems, including acne scars, wrinkles, and large pores. It is also occasionally used as a treatment for hair loss. A microneedling pen (or dermapen) is a small device that is utilized for the microdermabrasion process, also known as Collagen Induction Therapy. These pens vibrate causing their small needles to prick the skin. When used correctly, they can give your skin a tighter and more toned look.
The objective of it is to prick the skin with its needles to enhance the collagen production below the epidermis. The theory behind this is that these small pricks cause the skin to react, and generate more collagen. This process creates new skin cells, helping the skin appear young and luminous.
Microneedling is typically done with the help of a dermatologist, however there are some microneedling pens available to purchase for at-home use. While some patients do report results after one usage, it typically takes several sessions to see a noticeable difference.
The price of a microneedling pen can vary drastically. Some pens we analyzed sold for little as $130. Others came cost several hundreds of dollars to purchase (particularly, professional grade microneedling pens).
The Best Microneedling Pen (For At-Home Use)
If you’re going to use a microneedling pen at home, your options are fairly limited. Most of these products are significantly more expensive than a derma roller, however they do resemble the products you might find a dermatologist’s office. Read on for the best microneedling pens for at-home use and for professionals.
#1 Dr. Pen Ultima X5 LED-screen Display Microneedling Pen
Benefits:
Made up of high-quality material.
Comes with 4 cartridges – two 12 & 36-pins
LED screen speed display to display speed-levels
Comes with replaceable cartridges.
Promotes healthy and glowing skin at home.
According to the reviews…
Ultima X5 micro needling pen comes with four cartridges, two 12-pin and two 36-pin. The LED screen displays the five levels of speed and easy to operate.
Two different pins will give you a customized experience. Use 12-pin on your face for treating skin issues and 36-pin for treating more deeper skin issues like stretch marks. 36-pin is a bit aggressive on the skin, so you should try and decide what works best. You can also adjust the pin length from 0.25mm to 2.5mm.
This device works in eliminating facial wrinkles, scars, stretch marks, and also fine lines. You can use it both as a wired and wireless device. It comes with a speed setting and has a digital speed display as well.
Best for: Stretch marks, facial wrinkles and scars
Pros
Easy to use.
It has a digital LED screen to display the speed (5 levels)
Can be used wireless or with a cord.
Effective and affordable.
Cons
Needs proper charging before use.
#2 Ultima M5 Professional by Dr. Pen (Bang For your Buck)
Benefits:
Can be used for scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and stretch marks
Can be used as a makeup pen for lip, eyebrows, and covering scars
Comes with sterile and disposable needles
Safe to use and comfortable
Suits sensitive skin
According to the reviews…
Dr. Pen Ultima M5 works best on eyebrows, lips microdermabrasion, and fine hairline. This wireless rechargeable derma pen comes with four nano, one 12-pin, and one 36-pin replacement needle cartridges. It has a length-adjusting dial knob and adjustable speed level.
Some users say that they have tried everything to rejuvenate their skin, but nothing worked until this. It makes their skin look better and younger, just like Med Spa. It suits all skin types, including sensitive ones.
You can use the nanochips as a makeup pen for eyebrows, lips, and eyeliner. It is also convenient, hygienic, and easy to use.
Ultima M5 dermapen works effectively on removing scars, wrinkles, fine lines, and stretch marks, and it also works on removing tattoos as well. It comes with several heads for different purposes.
We recommend using it at low to moderate speed and not go deeper than 1 mm to achieve ideal performance.
Best for: Makeup, fading acne scars, and removing tattoos
Pros
Easy to operate and handy.
There is less pain compared to other microneedling pens.
It is economical and user-friendly.
It is effective and comes with adjustable settings.
Cons
Takes at least 3 to 4 applications for seeing results.
#3. Hydra Pen H2 Professional Microneedling Pen (Most Innovative)
Benefits:
Formulated with innovative technology that penetrates essence into the skin.
Boosts collagen, reduces wrinkles, acne scars, stretch marks, and solves all other skin issues.
Does not have any side-effects or potential risks.
Offers a risk-free money-back guarantee
According to the reviews…
You can say, this device is an upgraded version of Dr. Pen Microneedling Pen. It is wireless, has a lightweight design, and an LED display of speed. However, there are only 4-speed levels.
You get three pieces of 12 Pins and two pieces of round nano cartridges.
Using this pen before the skincare routine makes the absorption of your skincare products better. It lets you add the serum/essence to the cartridges, so they absorb well.
This device evens out the skin, boosts your natural texture, and also clears skin tone. This easy-to-use microneedling pen helps in treating large pores as well.
Best for: enhancing the absorption of skincare products, those who like innovation
#4. Dr. Pen Ultima A7 (Most Powerful Pen)
Benefits:
Fine 12-pin needles for easy penetration
Built-in bayonet to tightly lock the needle with the device
Bi-directional speed regulator
Comes with a sanitary cover for needle tips
Anti-skid, classy design
According to the reviews…
We think it is the most luxurious device Dr. Pen has ever made! An upgrade to Ultima A6, the Ultima A7 has a gorgeous metal body with a long power cord. The model is corded, so the consistent power allows the pen to support a strong motor than the wireless ones. The operation switch is quite durable.
This microneedling pen comes with 5 cartridges – 12-pin and 36-pin. Needles are thinner, so you can barely feel them (unless you are hypersensitive). They go in and out instead of just vibrating. After using, you will feel the area warm, almost like a sunburn.
The device shows incredible results on fading age spots, acne scarring, and forehead lines.
Best for: Acne scars, wrinkles, fine lines and uneven skin tone
Which needle cartridges should I go for?
9 pins Acne pit/marks/scars, stretch marks, obesity
12 pins Acne pit, acne marks, deep spot
24 pins Blemishes, under-eye bags and crow’s feet
36 pins Blemishes, hydration, under-eye bags and crow’s feet
42 pins Skin tightening, rejuvenation, under-eye bags, crow’s feet
Nano Uneven skin tone, fine lines, sun spots, acne scars
What should be the needle length for different skin issues?
Note: Do not use a needle depth of more than 1.5 mm at home. If your skin needs longer needles, consider going to a dermatologist.
Skin Issue/ Needle length
Deep acne scars 1.5 mm
Flat acne scars 1 mm
Skin discoloration 0.2-1.0 mm
Wrinkles 0.5-1.5 mm
Sagging skin 0.5-1.5 mm
Why Should You Use A Microneedling Pen?
As already discussed, microneedling pens can help treat several skin and hair issues. A micro-needling pen has several tiny needles that prick your skin, all at the same time.
The process might sound scary, but once you do it, you will instantly realize that this is probably the best thing that has ever happened to your skin.
Microneedling has several benefits for skin and hair. It is effective in reducing the appearance of scars. People who suffer from deep-rooted scars found this therapy helpful as they saw a massive improvement in their scars. This is why you should choose the best Dermapen for home use from all the tons of options available out there.
Works on sunspots by reversing the damage caused by the sun rays.
Fighting pigmentation, dark spots, discoloration and melasma.
Mature skin can benefit from micro needling pen as it corrects and smoothens damaged skin and prevent sagging.
The best microneedling pen improves your skincare game. If you do a session before applying any skin products, then it will enable the products to absorb better into your skin.
You can use these pens all over the body to treat skin issues. However, the only catch is that different parts of the body require different sizes of needles.
Microneedling Pen Buying Guide
Microneedling has become one of the hottest skincare procedure trends. It is a quick solution to skin problems.
And for this, buying a microneedling pen seems to be an affordable option. Therefore, you need to be careful while choosing one because something with so many benefits might also come with inevitable side effects.
There is numerous information on how you should use a dermapen and how frequently. But what no one tells you what you should consider when you are going to buy the best microneedling pen for yourself.
With so many devices and needle sizes out there, it might get confusing. So here we bring you a definite buyer’s guide, which will help you choose the best one. Let’s begin:
Ability and Purpose
Before you hit the market, beginning your hunt to buy the best microneedling pen, you should always keep in mind the purpose of your buy.
Are you purchasing it for cosmetic purpose or you want to target a specific skin issue? No matter how old you are, you can receive benefits from this treatment if you select the correct device.
Quality
The quality of the pen should be top-notch. The quality, however, depends on the construction and material. So select a device that is sturdy and durable and also look for the built of it. Abstain from flimsy devices available on unreputed websites and select devices from Amazon or Dr. Pen’s official site.
Size
Look for something which is easy to use and fits comfortably in your hands. Do not go for a bulky and heavy product. Also, look for its usability. It should be perfect for both home and professional use.
Operation
Before you buy your ideal device, choose something easy to operate without several complicated methods. Look whether it runs on battery or electricity. Also, look at whether the needle height and speed are adjustable or not.
Storage
Whatever microneedling pen you are looking for, it should be easy to store. They always come with cases in which they should be stored. But you should also determine whether you should store it in a warm or cold place or an airy or dry place. You should also look at the safety instructions and keep them away from children.
Side Effects
There are specific common side effects of microneedling, which include redness and swelling. However, you should always look for potential side effects. The side effects are not always easy to determine. But you should look for symptoms such as inflammation or irritation. A slight tingling sensation is also normal, but it should not burn your skin. Any possibility from outside the normal sphere is an area of concern.
Reviews
Customer reviews are critical if you are buying a microneedling device online. These devices will enable you to choose the best pen for yourself. Customers who review these online sites place their unbiased and honest reviews, which will help your selection process. Buy products that have the maximum number of positive reviews. Also, some customers provide pictures of the products. Go through them to determine whether your product is genuine or not.
When Not to Use A Dermapen?
Microneedling pens are great when you want to beautify yourself or boost your collagen or treat skin issues. However, there are certain times when you should avoid using it.
The first thing to keep in mind is that you should never do more than one session a day. It can irritate your skin and increase the risk of infection.
Never use it over your eyelids, as this can cause bleeding.
Do not use the pen when you have active acne or breakouts on your skin. This will spread the acne bacteria all over your skin and cause more breakouts.
If you have any severe skin condition or any health conditions, you should consult your doctor before undergoing any such process.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid undergoing this procedure.
Mistakes To Avoid While Buying the Best Microneedling Pen
Microneedling pens are easily available in the market, and it is effortless to get confused as to which one to buy. In this confusion and desperation, you often end up buying a bad device. It either does not serve the purpose or is not durable and does not stick around for long.
Here are some mistakes you should avoid before you buy a dermapen.
The needle’s size should not be too small as it would not fulfill the purpose of boosting collagen in your skin. It should not be too big either to hurt and damage your skin. The size should be right to serve the purpose.
The needles should be of high quality and should not break easily. The cheap ones are generally flimsy and not durable. Also, they should arrive clean and fully sterilized. They should come in a proper box with a seal to intend never to open or use it.
Research about your Dermapen and look for genuine FDA labels. Several brands sell fake products with fake FDA labels to avoid falling for them.
Always purchase from a good brand. A trusted brand will give you high-quality products and will also enhance the satisfaction of its use. Look for customer reviews while buying online to ensure that the product you are buying is worth it.
How To Use a Microneedling Pen at Home?
An expert generally performs professional treatment, but there are plenty of devices that you can use at home. A micro-needling pen at home is not only cost-effective but also useful.
There are several needles for several purposes, and you need to choose the right size to get the best results. So here are some tips on how you should use a micro-needling device.
#1 Select an appropriate device
Before you begin the process, you need to pick out a device that is best suited for your needs. There are plenty of devices out there in the market, and the derma pens are the most affordable ones. You can use it anywhere on your face and body.
#2 Determine the needle size
Once you have determined your best dermapen for home use device, it is now time to select the needle size. Every purpose requires a different needle size, so it is essential to know your purpose beforehand.
Needles for microneedling range from 0.25mm to 3mm, depending on what you are targeting to treat. 0.25mm to 1mm needles are used to treat wrinkles and fine lines proving to be effective for anti-aging. Needles for treating acne scars require 1.5mm. So, determine your specific concerns or ask a dermatologist for help.
#3 Be careful with the instructions
Before you begin to use a microneedling pen at home, read the instructions carefully. These instructions provide a lot of information on how you should use the device. There are also detailed instructions regarding the storage and cleanliness of it.
Every product is different, so you might want to read the instructions before you begin to work with your device. Depending on the type of device you choose, it might require some minor assembly procedures as well.
#4 Sanitize your device before you use it
Before you begin the whole process, you need to sanitize your device. This will ensure that your device is all clean and free from any germs or bacteria.
Take a bowl and take some rubbing alcohol in it. Immerse the needles into the bowl and leave it for about 2 minutes. Take it out, and it is ready for use.
#5 Start with a clean face
The effective results of any treatment lie at the beginning with a clean canvas. The process is the same for microneedling as well. Remove any makeup from your face and double cleanse your face for the best results. Use a gentle cleanser. This will get rid of all the dirt and grime from your face. Pat dry after cleansing.
#6 Divide your face into sections
After everything is ready, visually divide your face into six sections approximately. The sections should be small and precise. This will ease up your procedure and will also enable you to cover your entire face effectively.
You can also repeat the same procedure for your neck and chest as well if required. Just remember to use it on your upper chest. Do not go beyond that.
#7 Use the roller in all directions
Once you have sectioned, your face begins by using the pen on your face. Pull your skin tight with one hand and use the device with the other. Go in individual sections and use it in every direction. Do not rub the pen too many times in a section. Use the dermapen over each section about ten times and not more than that.
#8 Apply minimum pressure
Do not use too much pressure while working with derma rollers. Be light and gentle. You do not want to hurt yourself while doing this treatment. It is normal to feel a little pain initially, but it will subside a little later. You can also apply a numbing cream 30 to 40 minutes before a microneedling session. Your skin should feel the pressure but not too much to cause bleeding.
#9 Lift your roller while changing directions
Once you are done with one direction, it is essential to lift your roller and then begin in another direction entirely. Do not change positions or drag the roller from one direction to another while the roller is still in contact with your skin. This might result in tearing off your skin’s dermis layer, causing damage to the skin barrier.
#10 Post-treatment care
Once you are done with your treatment session, avoid washing your face for six to eight hours. It is normal to have red skin post-treatment. So allow your skin to rest and breathe before applying anything to it. Also, avoid wearing makeup for 24 hours. Be sure to keep your skin protected from the sun and wear sunblock if you need to go out in the sun.
#11 Sanitize your device
Post your treatment wash your needles in warm water, and disinfect it. For this again, take some rubbing alcohol in a bowl and immerse your roller for a few minutes. It is essential to keep your it sanitary and clean. This will remove any bacteria that it might have picked up from your skin.
#12 Keep the device back in the case
After you have disinfected and sanitized your device, put it back in its original case. This will keep the device clean and will also ensure the safety of your needles. The needles might break or get damaged when left in the open. It might also get in touch with bacteria from the air.
Before and After Care
Due to its increasing popularity and low cost, people are enthusiastic about using these pens on their skin.
Since this procedure provides so many benefits, people are buying to use at home. But every treatment has a procedure, and there are pre and post-care.
Therefore, we will share some precautions and preparations before and after using a microneedling pen, guaranteeing proper recovery and eliminating the risk of any infection and complications.
Before Using a Microneedling Pen
It is essential first to choose the right device. There are several options available, and they all range from different price points.
There are also several needle sizes, which all serve a different purpose. You always need to find a needle to suit your goal while selecting a micro-needling pen at home.
Once you have selected your device, clean your face, and remove any makeup traces to begin the procedure. This will avoid any chance of infection.
Avoid using a microneedling pen if you have active acne on your face. Doing this will increase your inflammation and spread the acne bacteria over your face, causing more breakouts.
Before you begin the procedure with your pen, research the procedure thoroughly. Every device has a different procedure. So read the instruction that comes with your device. It will give you an idea of how to use the pen.
Do not use any products or skincare before the session. If any need occurs, you might use a numbing cream to subside the tingling sensation, which is often caused by microneedling.
After Using A Microneedling Pen
Don’t wash your face for at least 24-48 hours. After this period, use a gentle cleanser to wash your face, and always remember to wash your hands before touching your face. Let your skin air dry. Avoid rubbing or pulling your skin.
After the specified amount of time, use serums, which will soothe and heal your skin. Use Hyaluronic acid or ceramides in your moisturizers or creams as it will restore the balance of your skin and hydrate your skin. Also, make sure to consume plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated and heal your skin.
Microneedling session boosts the collagen production in your skin. So taking collagen supplements during this time can double the benefits.
Make sure to use sun protection after the session. This is very important because microneedling can make your skin sensitive to the sun. At this time, your skin is more prone to get damaged by the harmful rays of the sun. To stay protected, use sunscreen with a broad spectrum of at least 50 SPF so that all your efforts are not wasted.
Allow your skin to breathe and heal. Avoid using physical and chemical exfoliators. Also, do not use toners that contain alcohol. This can damage the skin barrier, which is already vulnerable. Also, avoid using makeup for at least a week after the session.
1. What does a Dermapen do for your skin?
Dermapen is used in micro needling, and it is used to increase the production of collagen in your skin. Collagen is the building protein of our skin, which maintains our skin’s elasticity and keeps it youthful, firm, and tight. Dermapen facilitates new skin tissue growth, which reduces wrinkles, fine lines, stretch marks, and acne scars. It is, however, not a quick fix and requires patience to see visible results.
2. Does it hurt?
The hurting factor depends entirely on the size of the needles of your microneedling device. The dermapens available at home to use do not generally have long needles that do not usually hurt. However, if you are using needles of 1.5mm or longer, then it might hurt, and you might want to use a numbing cream before you begin the procedure. Longer needles can also cause bleeding, but it is all normal.
3. How often should you use a microneedling Dermapen?
Your micro needling session should not comprise more than one session in a day. If your treatment is mild, you can repeat it after every 2-3 weeks, but you might want to wait for 4-6 weeks before you can begin another session if your treatment is severe. It is also best for people with highly sensitive skin to undergo the procedure after a 4-6 week wait time.
4. Does Dermapen work for all skin types?
Yes, it works for all skin types. This is because it is not laser treatment or light therapy and does not involve harsh chemicals or procedures. It does not also damage the skin barrier and the epidermis layer of the skin. This makes it safe to be used by every skin type and on all sorts of problems.
5. Is peeling of the skin after using okay?
Yes, it is normal for the skin to peel after a microneedling session. This is because the needling of the skin causes several punctures in the face. The old skin is shed, and new skin starts to appear. This is why you feel that your skin is peeling. It is the dead skin falling off and usually subsides within a few days.
6. How long does it take to see results from micro-needling?
Microneedling is not an overnight process, and you need to be patient to see the results. In some patients, the results are almost immediate, while for others, it takes some time. It all depends on how quickly your skin responds to the healing process and how soon collagen works in your skin.
7. How long does it last?
The time frame for the exact effects of a microneedling session depends on your age, skin issues, skin type, and how well your skin responds to the treatment. However, one round of treatment’s initial effects lasts on an average of about 4-6 weeks in most people. However, the effects are not permanent, so you need to be consistent with following this treatment. The results are generally long-term, and you can start to notice them within a week.
8. Skin pen vs. Dermapen
Skin Pen is a microneedling device that has numerous small needles that puncture holes in the skin. This causes minor skin injuries, which allow the skin to respond to it and start the healing process, thereby boosting collagen production.
Dermapen is another microneedling device that works in the same manner. However, many have noticed great results with dermapen. The needles are surgical and sterilized and can be disposed of after use. It has 12 needles for faster oscillation and can easily glide onto the skin. The needles are also adjustable, which allows you to get customized treatment. Dermapen also gives more consistent results than Skin Pen.
9. Dermapen vs Derma roller
Both Dermapen and rollers are microneedling devices and work by creating minimal injuries on the skin’s epidermis so that the skin responds to healing. Both work by boosting collagen production in the skin. However, there are some differences.
Dermapen can often reach the areas where rollers are hard to use. You cannot safely treat the area around the eyes, nose, and mouth with derma rollers as they can be quite harsh or abrasive. But the professional microneedling pen quickly targets those areas.
Dermapen provides customized treatment as it can reach several depths, which is impossible with derma rollers. It penetrates the skin vertically, which causes less epidermal damage, while rollers penetrate the skin at an angle, creating more chances of damage. Dermapen also provides more precise results than derma rollers.
10. How much does a Dermapen cost on average?
The cost of a good quality microneedling Dermapen can be anywhere from between $100-$250 on average.
11. What are the side effects of microneedling?
Microneedling does not have any potential side effects. The usual effects include redness, bleeding, and peeling. In some cases, it can also cause irritation and inflammation. If you treat your skin with active acne, then it might cause infection as well.
Severe side effects might occur if you opt without even being an ideal candidate for the procedure. These conditions include:
Pregnancy
Open wounds
Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis
History of scars in the family
Recently underwent radiation therapy
12. What should you put on your face after microneedling?
As a rule of thumb, use mild products that aren’t harsh on the skin. Here’s a guide on the products you should use after microneedling treatment.
13. Microneedling vs. Botox
While both are popular choices for those looking for anti-aging treatments to improve skin, it depends on what you are looking forward to achieving.
Botox involves injections and fillers to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that do not directly treat the skin’s surface. In contrast, microneedling punctures the skin to stimulate new cells’ growth, even in those hard-to-reach areas.
While both are safe choices, microneedling treats skin on a deeper level. It’s always best to consult an esthetician when deciding your ideal treatment.
Final Word
With time, scars can fade on their own. However, some scars are quite nasty and can get permanent if you don’t treat them.
Wrinkles, fine lines, and other anti-aging issues are inevitable. They will come with age, but you can delay the process. Most anti-aging serums do not produce the necessary effects, and this is why this minimally invasive procedure is helpful.
Microneedling is an excellent option to try once you have weighed all others. As per these best microneedling pen reviews, we provided some of the best devices for home and professional use for estheticians.
