Where can you get a microneedling service? This minimally invasive cosmetic service can reduce fine lines, wrinkles, scars, stretch marks, and acne. If you're searching for a way to refresh and rejuvenate your skin, but aren't sure if you should try a professional or an at-home DIY device, take a look at what you need to know about microneedling treatments.

What Is Microneedling?

This popular aesthetic treatment is exactly what the name sounds like. The provider uses small, thin (or micro) needles to puncture the top layer of the skin. The injuries that "needling" causes can stimulate collagen production. While the micro holes in your face won't last, the collagen your body creates in response to the injuries can smooth your skin and increase firmness.

Do At-Home Devices Work?

Have you seen at-home or DIY needling devices online or in other ads? These mini machines or rollers claim to work just as well as in-office procedures. Even though devices for home use do have small-sized needles, these are often shorter or duller than the equipment a pro uses. This means that while you will get some results from a DIY session, you won't see the same level of smoothness that you could get from an in-office treatment.

Why Visit A Skin Care or Cosmetic Professional? 

Not only are at-home devices not as effective as in-office needling equipment, but you also won't get the benefit of a professional's experience and knowledge. Even though this type of cosmetic treatment is minimally invasive and generally safe, some people are not good candidates. If you have active acne outbreaks, take some types of acne medications, have psoriasis, or have eczema, you should skip this treatment. An at-home device can't evaluate your skin and recommend trying or not trying the procedure. But a skin care professional can.

Along with the ability to evaluate your individual skin care needs, a skin cosmetic professional has the training and skills to provide better results than what you could accomplish at home. This makes it possible for the pro to effectively and efficiently remove or reduce the appearance of fine lines and some types of scars. Instead of a noticeable change, an at-home device may only provide you with a subtle refresh or semi-permanent results. 

Which Type of Cosmetic Professional Should You Visit?

This type of treatment isn't a procedure that a day spa or salon professional should use. Like other minimally invasive services, microneedling is best left to a trained, licensed medical provider. A dermatologist, plastic surgeon, cosmetic medical doctor, or (in some cases) nurse practitioners and physician's assistants can provide this type of service.

Even though these pros are medical providers, you won't necessarily need to go to a doctor's office or hospital for a needling treatment. Medical spas also may offer this type of treatment. Unlike a traditional day spa, an M.D. should supervise a medical spa and the services it offers. For more information on microneedling, contact a professional near you.