That esthetician at a conference said microneedling at home was 'fine' - thought she was joking

I was at the ASCP event in Phoenix last month and overheard two estheticians chatting. One said she uses a microneedling pen from Amazon on herself every month at home with no issues. I nearly choked on my coffee because we learned the COMPLETE opposite in school. She claimed as long as you disinfect the needles and use a numbing cream it's basically the same as a clinic treatment. Has anyone else run into clients or peers who think DIY microneedling is safe?

2 comments

2 Comments

noahward1mo ago

The 10% lidocaine numbing cream thing really gets me. People don't realize that numbing cream just hides the pain, it doesn't prevent you from pushing bacteria or dead skin cells deeper into your face. I've seen three separate cases of granulomas from at-home microneedling in my area alone. Those little bumps that form under the skin are basically impossible to get rid of without seeing a dermatologist for laser treatments. And that's if you're lucky and don't end up with a full blown infection from non-sterile conditions. The idea that wiping needles with alcohol is the same as an autoclave is just wild to me.

barnes.morgan1mo ago

Wait, so you're telling me I can't just sterilize my needles by holding them over a lighter like my cousin's roommate's boyfriend's tattoo artist does? In all seriousness though, the numbing cream angle is something people really sleep on. You're right, it just means you can't feel yourself messing your face up. I've seen those granuloma pictures online and they look like tiny little tapioca pearls permanently glued under the skin. Not exactly the "glow" anyone is going for. And the alcohol wipe vs autoclave thing kills me too. Like yeah, wiping down a counter with a wet napkin is technically cleaning, but that doesn't mean I'd eat off it after.