aiony-haust-f2ar0ltTvaI-unsplash

*If the COVID-19 pandemic has meant you are spending more time tending to your own complexion (without the help of a professional) than ever before, you’re not alone. In this four-part series, The AEDITION is teaming up with [Lizette Ludwig, RN](https://www.instagram.com/lizetteludwig_rn/), to compare some of the most popular minimally invasive in-office aesthetic treatments ([microneedling](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-professional-microneedling-at-home-dermarolling), [chemical peels](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-medical-grade-chemical-peels-at-home-exfoliators), LED light therapy, and microcurrent) to their at-home counterparts.* 

<a href="https://youtu.be/tMkJg0KCeBw" class="embedly-card" data-card-width="100%" data-card-controls="0">Embedded content: https://youtu.be/tMkJg0KCeBw</a>

We spend a lot of time hearing about the damaging effects of certain kinds of light (think: ultraviolet) on the skin, but what about light that can actually be healing and regenerative? Enter [light emitting diode (LED) therapy](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-benefits-of-light-therapy), a non-invasive treatment that utilizes different wavelengths to treat a wide array of aesthetic concerns and skin conditions on the face and body. Here, we break down everything you need to know about the versatile therapy that has both in-office and at-home applications.

## **What Is LED Therapy?**
First developed by NASA to aid plant growth experiments in space, LED therapy has become known as a non-invasive healing and aesthetic treatment option for just about every [skin type and skin tone](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-fitzpatrick-skin-types). “Using varying wavelengths, LED helps with anti-aging, acne, inflammation, and overall skin regeneration,” explains [Lizette Ludwig, RN](https://www.instagram.com/lizetteludwig_rn/), an aesthetic nurse and injector in southern California. Because it does not contain UV rays, it is considered safe for regular use and [studies have not shown](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/04/140421164148.htm) any adverse effects on the skin.

### **Types of LED Therapy**
LED therapy works by taking advantage of the skin's natural ability to metabolize light. The benefits are wide-reaching thanks to the different wavelengths employed. Below are the most common for aesthetic use:

- **Red Light**: Also known as infrared light, Ludwig says red light is used to treat the epidermis, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation. The result? A healthier glow. “I like to think of red light as anti-aging and improving fine lines and wrinkles,” she adds.
- **Blue Light**: Acne beware, blue light targets overactive sebaceous (oil) glands. In turn, you may see [fewer breakouts](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-professional-treatments-for-acne-and-acne-scars). “It can also kill acne-causing bacteria beneath the skin,” Ludwig shares. She often combines red and blue light in her treatments.
- **Yellow Light**: Useful in treating chronic skin conditions, yellow light improves “overall redness” from [rosacea](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-live-with-and-treat-rosacea), [eczema](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-skincare-products-to-treat-eczema-flare-ups-in-the-winter), and broken blood vessels and capillaries, Ludwig explains. It can also soothe irritated and/or sensitive skin. 
- **Green Light**: “There are lots of [wellness](https://aedit.com/aedition/collection/wellness) benefits to using green light therapy,” Ludwig says. “You may notice improvement in sleep and relief from pain.” And it can be used as skin therapy as well, often in combination with other colors.

While LED therapy is best known for addressing facial skin concerns, it can also be used on the neck, chest, and body. Some offices have LED beds that can treat skin and wellbeing from head to toe.

## **In-Office LED Therapy Treatments** 
In a professional setting, LED therapy is often combined with other skin procedures. As Ludwig explains, it is an effective add-on to a [facial](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-get-a-hydrafacial-for-clear-glowing-skin), [chemical peel](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-medical-grade-chemical-peels-at-home-exfoliators), or [microneedling](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-professional-microneedling-at-home-dermarolling) treatment. Each LED session lasts about 20 minutes and, depending on the offerings of your provider, may include multiple types of light. The treatment itself is completely painless. In fact, it often results in improved mood, in addition to the skin benefits.

For best results, a series of LED sessions is usually required. Ludwig often suggests eight to 10 treatments spaced about a week apart. From there, a follow-up session every few months is recommended for maintenance.

### **LED Therapy Safety & Results** 
Side effects are minimal and rare with LED, though it is possible to experience increased inflammation, redness, rash, pain, or tenderness in the area of treatment. While LED can be classified as an acne treatment, it is not recommended for [Accutane](https://aedit.com/procedure/accutane) patients because the medication causes light sensitivity. Additionally, there are questions around how continued use of light can affect the eyes. “We don’t know for sure, but it's recommended to use eye protection during treatment,” Ludwig says. This is especially true of in-office LED procedures that are more powerful than their at-home counterparts. 

If you’re wondering how long you’ll enjoy the skin-boosting benefits, Ludwig says “results can last a few months, but continued use of LED therapy is recommended” for maximum effect.  

## **At-Home LED Therapy**
As with any professional versus at-home treatment, in-office LED therapy is stronger than consumer versions — but that’s not to say it’s ineffective. “At-home LED masks or wands usually require additional treatments,” Ludwig says, adding that there is one major benefit. “The nice thing about the at-home treatments is you can use them at your convenience,” she notes.

Most of the at-home LED therapy tools you’ll find on the market utilize red light, blue light, or a combination of the two. Some come in the form of masks that cover a larger treatment area (think: the whole face or chest), while others offer more targeted treatment. 

### **Treatment & Results** 
Consistency is key when it comes to enjoying the benefits of at-home treatments, and it’s best to follow the instructions that come with your specific device and consult with your provider to ensure the therapy is right for you. Most at-home LED tools will encourage regular use for a certain amount of time for initial results and then ongoing maintenance thereafter ([check out what happened when one of our writers used the Priori Skincare UnveiLED Mask for a month](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-like-to-use-priori-led-light-therapy-mask)). 

“For in-office treatments, we usually recommend 10 treatments for 20 minutes about one week apart, but at-home devices usually come with instructions from the manufacturer,” Ludwig shares. “A lot of them recommend daily use for a few weeks, so follow the manufacturer guidelines.” While it might take a bit more patience to see results, you can enjoy the same glow-inducing and breakout-reducing benefits you’d expect from professional LED therapy.

AEDITION for men-min

Expert Opinion Collection | The AEDITION

Expert Opinion

We talk a lot about the damaging effects of certain kinds of light (think: ultraviolet) on the skin, but what about light that can actually be healing and regenerative? Here’s the scoop on LED therapy.

Benefits Of Professional And At-Home LED Light Therapy For Acne, Aging Skin

In-Office vs. At-Home LED Therapy: What’s The Difference?

cesar-la-rosa-aFZ3HmHo-Z0-unsplash

While the ongoing [COVID-19 pandemic](https://aedit.com/aedition/moderna-covid-19-vaccine-dermal-filler-swelling) has led many of us to take a more [DIY approach](https://aedit.com/aedition/false-eyelashes-mascara-for-thicker-fuller-lashes) to our beauty and skincare routines, I’ve always preferred to do my [eyebrows](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/eyebrows) myself. Maybe it’s due to the fact that I’m filled with immense joy when I perfect my arch, or maybe it’s due to the time I went to a waxer and ended up with swollen brows. Either way, it’s become second nature for me to shape and fill in my brows from the comfort of my own home.

It has, however, taken some trial and error to develop my routine — and I’ve picked up some pointers along the way. And, because you can never have too many brow-shaping tips, I also reached out to some industry insiders for their own tricks and recommendations. The result? This definitive guide to shaping, defining, and crafting your brows from home. Here’s what you need to know. 

## **The Tools of the Trade**
While everyone has their personal favorite(s) when it comes to brow products, there are some styling and shaping tools that are considered staples for any kit:

- **Facial Razor**: My tool of choice, a [facial razor](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fsephora-collection-4-piece-facial-razor-set-P465808%3FskuId%3D2373470%26icid2%3Dproducts%2520grid%3Ap465808%3Aproduct) can help you shape your brows prior to filling them. 
- **Scissors**: Similar to a facial razor, a small pair of scissors (like [these from Tweeszerman](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fbrow-shaping-scissors-brush%3FproductId%3DxlsImpprod560322)) can be used to trim your eyebrows before applying any product.
- **Tweezers**: A classic tool, [tweezers](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fbasics-chrome-tweezer%3FproductId%3Dpimprod2014034) give you more control when plucking — and they’re particularly great for shaping the tail.
- **Spoolie**: Your brows need to be brushed too, and [spoolies](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fbrow-shaping-scissors-brush%3FproductId%3DxlsImpprod560322) can be used before *and* after applying product to lay your brow hair and distribute color.

To set yourself up for success, you might want to consider investing in this quartet before trying your hand at brow shaping.

## **How to Shape Your Brows At Home**
Now that you have the right tools, it’s time to break down the process of shaping and defining. Below is an expert-approved, four-step plan for pro-level brows:

### **1. Find Your Light**
The first step for doing your brows at home? Find good lighting. “Great lighting is key, as it will ensure maximum visibility,” explains celebrity makeup artist [Melissa Hernandez](https://www.instagram.com/melissa.hernandez/?hl=en). “Make sure to position yourself somewhere with bright, natural lighting.” Once you’ve found the perfect spot, she suggests beginning the shaping process by brushing your brow hair in an upward direction and trimming straight across along the top line of your brow. “Focusing on hairs that are growing past your desired shape,” she says. From there, she recommends tweezing any stray bits in the direction of hair growth “because it will help prevent inflammation and potential scarring.”

### **2. Pick Your Product**
Next, you’ll want to pick the right product to define and fill-in your brows. Celebrity makeup artist [Sandy Linter](https://www.instagram.com/sandylinter/?hl=en) says that she looks at brow texture to determine which product to use. Her tips:

- Use a **brow gel** if your brows are unruly
- Try a **brow pomade** for lifeless arches
- **Brow powders** are great for adding color
- Get more definition with a **brow pencil**

If volume is your concern, fiber-based products can help create the illusion of fullness. “Brow fiber gels are buildable, so you can create everything from a natural to a fuller look,” says Kenna Murray, a national trainer for [Amazing Lash Studio](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazinglashstudio.com%2F). “They are also great to use for securing your brows into place.” You can also mix and match products to create the perfect brow look. I personally tend to use a pencil to define the lower part of my brow and the tail, and then I switch to a pomade to fill it all in.

### **3. Add Arch Emphasis**
Now that you have your product(s) in hand, you’ll want to define your brows — including those tricky arches. “The trick to defining your brows and enhancing your overall eye look is to measure from the outer edge of your nostril up to the highest point of your eyebrow at an angle,” Murray explains. “Mark that point with a pencil — it’s where your arch is.” While your brows naturally have their own arch, you can manipulate the shape. “You can customize your arch based on how much you pluck underneath the peak of the arch,” she says. But tread carefully when removing hairs. “Tweezing one to two brow hairs at a time is the best way to achieve the desired arch, instead of creating too thin of an arch,” Murray notes. This is an especially useful tip for those who have been working on growing fuller brows. As for the tail, many people fail to go far enough with their product. The end of your brow should line up with the outer edge of your nose.

### **4. Touch Them Up**
Now that you’ve shaped and defined your brows, use concealer to clean up any mistakes. If you’re going for a natural look, use a concealer that’s one shade lighter than your skin tone. If you fancy an Instagram guru-level look, I recommend using one that’s two shades lighter. The contrast creates a really defined silhouette. Underneath your brow, line the full length with concealer. For the top of the brow, concentrate the coverup on just the outer half, then blend.

## **Insider Tips for At-Home Brow Shaping**
At this point, I hope you’re feeling more confident and ready to take on at-home brow shaping. If you have any lingering reservations, our pros offer these tips:

1. **Avoid Magnifying Mirrors**:  The number one mistake brow newbies make when shaping their arches at home? Overplucking. “Magnifying mirrors often emphasize brow hairs that should be left alone,” Hernandez says. Instead, opt for a regular mirror and remember less is more. 
2. **Try a Stencil**: If you find that you’re having trouble developing the shape you want, eyebrow stencils are a quick and easy alternative. Our pick? The [Anastasia Beverly Hills Classic Stencils](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fclassic-stencils-P69600) five-piece set. 
3. **Start with Scissors**: “Sometimes after a slight trim, the brows don’t need as much tweezing,” Linter shares. “Press your finger on your brow and trim off the tips.” As with tweezing, be conservative. “Don’t go too short because then your brow hairs will not lay flat,” she cautions.

## **The Takeaway**
While doing your brows at home may seem daunting, start with sourcing your tools (i.e. a facial razor, scissors, tweezers, and/or spoolie) and deciding what styling product(s) are best for you. Once your kit is assembled, you’ll be able to map out your desired shape. When in doubt, remember less is always more and stencils and concealer will be handy extras on your journey to brow domination.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Doing your eyebrows from home is a lot easier than you think — take it from me.

How To Shape, Tweeze, Fill-In, And Style Eyebrows At Home

How To Shape Your Eyebrows At Home

shutterstock 1341677051

*If the COVID-19 pandemic has meant you are spending more time tending to your own complexion (without the help of a professional) than ever before, you’re not alone. In this four-part series, The AEDITION is teaming up with [Lizette Ludwig, RN](https://www.instagram.com/lizetteludwig_rn/), to compare some of the most popular minimally invasive in-office aesthetic treatments ([microneedling](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-professional-microneedling-at-home-dermarolling), chemical peels, [LED light therapy](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-professional-at-home-led-therapy), and microcurrent) to their at-home counterparts.* 

<a href="https://youtu.be/FyxxRoixPkk" class="embedly-card" data-card-width="100%" data-card-controls="0">Embedded content: https://youtu.be/FyxxRoixPkk</a>

Dullness. Dark spots. Acne scars. Fine lines and wrinkles. What do all of these skin concerns have in common? They can be treated with [medical-grade chemical peels](https://aedit.com/aedition/chemical-peel-vs-laser-treatment-what-is-best-for-your-skin). Depending on your aesthetic goals and needs, chemical peels are available in an array of potencies and have the ability to resurface the skin for more even tone and texture. For those looking to achieve glow-inducing results at-home, less concentrated chemical exfoliators can slough away dead skin cells for a more radiant complexion. Here, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about in-office chemical peels and at-home chemical exfoliators.

## **What Is a Chemical Peel?**
Professional chemical peels employ chemical solutions of varying strengths to target and remove the outer layers of the skin. “The benefits of a medical-grade chemical peel are endless,” says [Lizette Ludwig, RN](https://www.instagram.com/lizetteludwig_rn/), an aesthetic nurse and injector in southern California. As she explains, they are a good option for anyone looking to address skin imperfections. “Chemical peels allow you to remove dead skin cells and address fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone in a safe and effective way,” she shares.

Professional chemical peels can be broken down into three categories:

1. Superficial chemical peels
2. Medium chemical peels
3. Deep chemical peels

These classifications are based on the potency of the peels and the ingredients used in the chemical solution. “Ingredients found in medical-grade peels usually include alpha hydroxy acids (lactic acid and [glycolic acid](https://aedit.com/procedure/glycolic-peel)), beta hydroxy acids ([salicylic acid](https://aedit.com/procedure/salicylic-acid-peel)), trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and phenol,” Ludwig says. Below is an overview of each:

### **Superficial Chemical Peels**
The lightest and gentlest of the group, [superficial chemical peels](https://aedit.com/procedure/superficial-chemical-peels) remove the epidermis (i.e. top layer of the skin) and are generally tolerated by most [skin tones](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-fitzpatrick-skin-types). “These peels are usually made from [alpha hydroxy](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-alpha-hydroxy-acids-in-skincare) or [beta hydroxy acids](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-beta-hydroxy-acids-salicylic-acid-in-skincare), but they can also include enzymes or other natural exfoliating ingredients,” Ludwig notes. Because they focus on the epidermis, superficial peels provide a slight improvement to the skin and usually require a [series of treatments](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-frequently-to-get-non-surgical-cosmetic-procedures-like-dermal-filler-botox-chemical-peel) for best results. Some mild dryness and flaking are a part of the healing process and can last for three to five days.

### **Medium Chemical Peels**
Falling in the middle of the scale, [medium-depth chemical peels](https://aedit.com/procedure/medium-depth-chemical-peels) produce a more dramatic result in a single treatment than light peels. “Skin will be significantly smoother with an even tone and blemishes removed,” Ludwig says. This type of peel usually contains [trichloroacetic acid (TCA)](https://aedit.com/procedure/tca-peel) to penetrate the skin and remove layers below the epidermis. Peeling, redness, and swelling are all to be expected post-peel and can last three to 10 days.

### **Deep Chemical Peels**
Needless to say, [deep chemical peels](https://aedit.com/procedure/deep-chemical-peels) are the strongest and most invasive. They usually involve a potent formulation of TCA or [phenol](https://aedit.com/procedure/phenol-peel) that can penetrate the deep layer of the dermis. As Ludwig shares, the depth allows them to produce “drastically smoother” and “youthful-looking” skin. “Deep peels can achieve amazing results for sun damage, scarring, and wrinkles,” she says. Due to their strength, however, deep peels can be painful and healing requires patience. Several weeks of downtime is needed, and full recovery could take weeks or months.

## **Professional Chemical Peel Treatments**
Medical-grade chemical peels involve the application of a chemical solution to the face and (possibly) neck. The chemical solution is either applied lightly or rubbed more vigorously onto the skin using a gauze pad. During the application, you may experience a slight tingling (superficial to medium peels) or burning (deep peels). “I like to give my clients a mini fan which helps the tingling or burning sensation,” Ludwig shares. With certain types of chemical peels, the solution may need to be ‘neutralized’ after the appropriate time has elapsed, though most chemicals neutralize on their own.

Regardless of what strength peel you choose, patients are usually sent home with post-care instructions. “Make sure to discuss with your provider how to care for your skin after the peel,” Ludwig says. Even for the lightest peel, you’ll likely need to make [changes to your skincare routine](https://aedit.com/aedition/skincare-after-facial-plastic-surgery-procedures) for a few days pre- and post-treatment. If you’re planning on a medium or deep peel, antiviral medication may be prescribed beforehand.

### **Chemical Peel Safety**
Professional chemical peels are meant to be performed in a doctor's office or a medical spa by a licensed skincare professional. As we’ve reported, the [DIY dermatology trend](https://aedit.com/aedition/dangers-of-diy-at-home-dermatology-beauty-treatments) that’s fueled by social media and social distancing had led some to try medical-grade treatments (like TCA peels) at home with dangerous and damaging results. “Beware of chemical solutions sold online, as they are usually sold illegally and can cause permanent damage to your skin,” Ludwig warns. “Chemical peels should be applied by a licensed professional.”

## **Professional Chemical Peels vs. At-Home Chemical Exfoliators**
The main difference between a superficial in-office peel and chemical exfoliators or treatments you can find at, say Sephora, is that at-home solutions do not provide the same chemical concentration as their professional counterparts. While similar active ingredients may be found in both versions, the potency is quite different. As Ludwig explains, at-home percentages of glycolic acid, for example, max out around 10 percent, while medical-grade glycolic acids (applied by a professional) can reach as high as 70 percent.

## **At-Home Chemical Exfoliators**
If you’re dealing with mild cases of uneven skin tone and texture or wish to maintain your complexion in between in-office appointments, at-home chemical exfoliators and enzyme treatments can impart a subtle and sustained glow with regular use.

When it comes to choosing a treatment, Ludwig suggests [reading the label](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/read-the-label) closely. “I recommend looking for brightening ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, [vitamin C](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-c-in-skincare), and active enzymes such as pumpkin, papaya, and pineapple,” she explains. “Every ingredient serves a purpose, so do your homework when it comes to the ingredient list.”

### **Chemical Exfoliator Safety & Results**
While your skin likely won’t peel or flake the way it will after a professional treatment, irritation is possible with at-home exfoliating products. “Read all instructions carefully when it comes to at-home peels,” Ludwig cautions. “Most will ask you to wash it off after 10 to 15 minutes of application and gradually build up to leaving it on overnight.” 

Another way to ensure your skin ends up radiant, not ruddy? “I recommend skipping out on ingredients like retinol and other active serums on days you choose to exfoliate at home,” Ludwig shares. She suggests exfoliating one to two times per week and alternating days with any actives already in your routine. “Less is more, in my opinion,” she says. “Over-exfoliating can disrupt our [skin’s microbiome](https://aedit.com/aedition/skin-microbiome-skincare-products-ingredients).”

Dullness. Dark spots. Acne scars. Fine lines and wrinkles. What do all of these skin concerns have in common? They can be treated with chemical peels. 

Medical Grade Chemical Peels vs. At-Home Chemical Exfoliators: What's The Difference

In-Office vs. At-Home Chemical Peels: What’s The Difference

shutterstock 1543602824

*If the COVID-19 pandemic has meant you are spending more time tending to your own complexion (without the help of a professional) than ever before, you’re not alone. In this four-part series, The AEDITION is teaming up with [Lizette Ludwig, RN](https://www.instagram.com/lizetteludwig_rn/), to compare some of the most popular minimally invasive in-office aesthetic treatments (microneedling, [chemical peels](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-medical-grade-chemical-peels-at-home-exfoliators), [LED light therapy](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-professional-at-home-led-therapy), and microcurrent) to their at-home counterparts.* 

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APakPVBeSdU" class="embedly-card" data-card-width="100%" data-card-controls="0">Embedded content: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APakPVBeSdU</a>

Whether your introduction to it was Kim Kardashian’s infamous vampire facial or a treatment of your own, professional [microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling) is gaining popularity in aesthetic procedure space thanks to its wide array of skin-boosting benefits for both the face *and* body. For those looking to mimic the effects at home, less invasive dermaroller devices can provide similar benefits. Here, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about in-office microneedling and at-home dermarolling.

## **What Is Microneedling?** 
Also known as collagen induction therapy, microneedling involves the use of many small needles to puncture the skin, creating micro-injuries that stimulate the body's natural healing process (including collagen and elastin production). “There are so many amazing benefits when it comes to a professional microneedling treatment,” says [Lizette Ludwig, RN](https://www.instagram.com/lizetteludwig_rn/), an aesthetic nurse and injector in southern California. “It’s one of my favorite treatments for all [skin types](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-fitzpatrick-skin-types).” 

As she explains, microneedling improves skin quality and can reduce the appearance of: 

- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Pores
- Acne scars
- Skin discoloration
- Sun damage

But it doesn’t just treat facial concerns. “Microneedling can be used on the body as well,” Ludwig shares. “It’s considered a treatment of choice when it comes to treating [stretch marks](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-stretch-marks).” She has seen the benefits of microneedling as a stretch mark therapy in her own practice, and the treatment can also [minimize the appearance of scars](https://aedit.com/aedition/minimizing-scars-after-surgery). 

### **Professional Microneedling Treatments** 
Generally speaking, an in-office microneedling treatment will take about an hour. A standard session includes: 

1. Apply a topical numbing cream for 30 minutes
2. Cleanse treatment area
3. Use medical-grade microneedling pen with tiny sterilized needles to create microscopic channels in the skin and trigger the body’s healing response
4. Treatment generally takes 20 minutes 
5. Soothe skin by applying a healing serum post-treatment

Microneedling can be done alone or paired with nourishing extras like [platelet-rich plasma (PRP)](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-prp), [stem cells](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-prp-and-stem-cells), and even [radiofrequency](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-radiofrequency). Additional steps (like drawing the patient’s blood to create the PRP solution) may be needed for such variations.

### **Microneedling Recovery & Results**
While the treatment protocol will depend on your skin concerns, Ludwig usually recommends a series of four to six sessions spaced one month apart. Microneedling is generally considered a safe and effective treatment option, but there are still risks. “The primary concern is skin post-treatment irritation,” she explains. “Mild side effects include, redness, swelling, dryness, and flaking of skin.” On average, such sensitivities will last 24 to 48 hours. 

## **Professional Microneedling vs. At-Home Dermarolling**
If paying a visit to your aesthetic provider isn’t possible right now or you are looking for a way to achieve similar benefits at home, dermarolling may be a good option for you. “The biggest difference between an in-office microneedling treatment and an at-home dermarolling treatment is the depth of the needles,” Ludwig shares.

The needle depth of a professional treatment is anywhere from 0.25 millimeters to 2.5 millimeters, which, she says, “allows for a more controlled penetration of the needles depending on the area or condition being treated.” For example, [acne scars](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-acne-scars), stretch marks, and deep wrinkles all call for a deeper needle depth in order to be effective. An at-home dermarolling needle depth, meanwhile, is a static 0.3 millimeters. As such, “it is a good option for treating the surface of the skin,” Ludwig notes.

## **At-Home Dermarolling Treatments** 
In order to ensure the most safe and effective at-home treatment, it’s important to follow the instructions that come with the device. Ludwig also recommends the following:

- **Do Your Research**: “Make sure you buy from a trusted site or store,” she says. Our picks? The [Julep Slowpoke Microneedle Roller](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.julep.com%2Fproducts%2Fslowpoke-microneedle-roller) and [BeautyBio GloPRO Microneedling Facial Regeneration Tool](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fglopro-microneedling-facial-regeneration-tool-P438641).
- **Do Your Homework**: Once you’ve picked a device, be sure you understand how to use it by talking to your provider or watching a tutorial. 
- **Wash Your Face First**: Just like professional microneedling, “make sure your face is clean before your treatment,” Ludwig shares.
- **Avoid Harsh Topicals**: She suggests swapping [alpha-](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-alpha-hydroxy-acids-in-skincare) and [beta-hydroxy acids](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-beta-hydroxy-acids-salicylic-acid-in-skincare), [retinols](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare), and even [vitamin C](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-c-in-skincare) for a gentle hyaluronic acid serum post-treatment. 

Like microneedling, dermarolling is not recommended for those with open wounds or a skin infection in the treatment area.

### **Dermarolling Recovery & Results**
Dermarolling can be done safely at a very shallow depth when the device is properly sterilized. “The tool should be cleansed after each use,” Ludwig says. She recommends preparing soapy water in a container and allowing the dermaroller to sit in it immediately after treatment. From there, she advises disinfecting it by letting it soak in alcohol for 10 minutes. “Allow it to dry and store in the case,” she adds.

With regular, long-term use (in accordance with the instructions), dermarolling can improve skin tone, texture, and mild scarring.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Whether your introduction to it was Kim Kardashian’s vampire facial or a treatment of your own, professional microneedling and at-home dermarolling have major skin-boosting benefits.

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