How to Use a Microneedling Pen
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Step 1: Preparation & Thorough Disinfection
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Facial Cleansing: Please double-cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser to ensure all makeup, sunscreen, and dirt are completely removed. Pat dry with a clean face towel.
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Device Disinfection: Always wash your hands before starting. Wipe down the body of the Dr. Pen M8 with 70% rubbing alcohol (medical grade).
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Cartridge Preparation: You must use a brand-new, sealed needle cartridge for every single session. Absolutely never reuse old cartridges to prevent infection.
Step 2: Pairing with the Right Serum (Crucial)
During microneedling, your skin must have a liquid to act as a "slip" (lubricant); otherwise, the needles will scratch and drag across your skin.
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The Only Recommendation: Pure Hyaluronic Acid (HA) serum. It provides perfect slip while the micro-needles deliver hydration deep into the skin.
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Strictly Avoid (Do Not Use): During the procedure and for the 24 hours following, absolutely avoid serums containing Vitamin C, Retinol, AHAs/BHAs (chemical exfoliants), or high amounts of artificial fragrances and preservatives. If these ingredients are pushed too deep into the skin, they can cause severe inflammation.
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Where to Buy (Very convenient in the US):
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Beauty Stores (Sephora / Ulta): Highly recommend The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5—clean ingredients and great value.
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Amazon: You can search for Cosmedica Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which is a best-seller.
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Pharmacies/Supermarkets (Target / CVS / Walgreens): You can easily find CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum or Vichy Minéral 89.
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Step 3: Dr. Pen M8 Operation Guide
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Apply by Section: Because hyaluronic acid dries quickly, it is best to work in sections. For example, apply a thick layer to your forehead first, and then microneedle that specific area.
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Adjust Speed and Depth: If you are a beginner, it's recommended to set the device to the lowest speed (Level 1 or 2). The needle depth should be set between 0.25mm and 0.50mm (this is the safest depth for at-home use, primarily meant for product absorption and brightening).
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Technique: Hold the device perpendicular (at a 90-degree angle) to your skin. Gently glide it in a cross-hatch pattern (horizontally, vertically, and diagonally).
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Use Gentle Pressure: Never press down hard on the device; let the pen glide lightly over the skin on its own. Suggested order: Forehead -> Cheeks -> Chin -> Nose. Please make sure to completely avoid the delicate skin around your eyes.
Step 4: Golden Post-Treatment Care
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Normal Redness: After the procedure, it is completely normal for your face to be red and feel like a mild sunburn! You can apply another thick layer of hyaluronic acid serum to calm and soothe the skin.
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The 24-Hour Rule: For 12 to 24 hours post-treatment, do not wash your face, do not do intense workouts or sweat heavily, and do not wear makeup.
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Strict Sun Protection: Your skin will be highly sensitive to UV rays post-treatment. When going out the next day, please rely on physical sun protection (use an umbrella, wear a wide-brimmed hat) and temporarily avoid applying chemical sunscreens.