Between monthly trips to the dermatologist and various skin care remedies, I have had my share of skin issues. While it may not always show up in photos, I struggle with acne scars, adult acne and discoloration. At least that was true until I started microneedling.
I was introduced to this skincare tool last fall when one of my girlfriends told me it changed her skin after only three months. Being curious myself, I immediately did some research and decided I’d order this $10 version. After incorporating this into my nightly routine, I started noticing a difference with my skin. The texture and old acne scars were improving. I used the budget-friendly tool for about 5 months and then recently upgraded to the GloPRO Microneedling Regeneration Tool after watching the demonstration at the Nordstrom Beauty Trend Event. But before we get into why I switched, let me fill you in on the details behind Microneedling and how it changed my skin.
WHAT IS MICRONEEDLING?
Mircroneedling (also known as derma-rolling) works from the inside out by triggering skin’s natural healing process and inducing micro-regeneration deep within the skin. By gently damaging the skin (I promise this doesn’t hurt and you won’t bleed), you trigger its natural healing properties. This causes the creation of collagen. The needles are .3mm in length, so you aren’t going to feel any pain, but your skin will tingle. This is allowing any serums or moisturizers to reach deeper levels in your skin. It boosts ingredient absorption up to 90%! Microneedling is also an effective treatment for acne scars or dark sports since it penetrates the skin.
HOW DO I USE THE GloPRO?
Step One: Wash your face and remove all traces of makeup. I love this makeup remover from the drugstore or a face oil like this works really well (I have a ton of options linked in my double cleansing post). My TULA Face Wash (20% off with code ASHLEYR) is also a great option for all skin types. It’s gentle, yet leaves my skin feeling clean. I finish with a toner like the Beauty Water.
If you have an active breakout, use with caution. I’ve read reviews saying to avoid breakouts, but I’ve also read that if you treat that area separately, meaning you can gently do it over acne, but then clean with alcohol before doing the rest of your face, it can help the breakout heal quicker because your acne cream will absorb faster. To each their own.
Step Two: Gently roll the GloPRO horizontally, vertically, and diagonally about 3-4 times over your skin, including your lips but avoiding eyelids or right under your eyes. I usually do my whole face horizontally, then do it again vertically and so on. The whole process should only take 2-3 minutes. I only use this at night since it does make my face a little red. However, if you want an instant lip plump, do this over your lips before you go out. Your lips will tingle, but they will appear full.
Step Three: Spritz with rubbing alcohol and let it dry completely. Store in its plastic case between uses. It’s so important to clean your tool after each use to reduce bacteria from spreading.
Step Four: Apply your favorite serum or moisturizer within 60 seconds after using your microneedle. I like to use an oil, like this beauty oil, with a light moisturizer this night cream or gel moisturizer. As always, be sure to use a sunscreen throughout the day. Your face will become more sensitive to sunlight after using the microneedle.
Step Five: As a general rule, start using this 2-3 times a week. Gradually work your way up to 5 times a week. Personally, I use this every night if I remember.
WHY THE SWITCH?
Well, I started using the $10 version because I honestly wasn’t sure if I believed in the product enough to invest $200. But like I mentioned above, I used it for 5 months and noticed significant results in my skin. I decided to go ahead and purchase the GloPRO for two reasons. 1. My $10 version was starting to break. It was great while it lasted, but after using it 3-5x a week, I could tell it wasn’t holding up. 2. The GloPRO has red LED light function and Vibrotactile Stimulation. Together, this works to enhance regenerative skin benefits. After hearing the GloPRO demonstration at the Beauty Trend Event, I learned that cells exposed to LED light grow 150 to 200 percent faster than unstimulated cells (I was sold). Also, the quality of the actual tool (handle and needles) were definitely better compared to my other one. Maybe it’s a scam, maybe it’s not. Either way, this is the first time I have ever received compliments on my skin. I’m no longer intimated to go “makeup free” and when I do wear makeup, I find that my foundation goes on much smoother than before.
MY OVERALL THOUGHTS
After microneedling for 8 months, my acne scars have become less noticeable and my skin has fewer breakouts. I’m confident it is because my serums and creams are reaching a deeper level in my skin. My dermatologist recently commented on my skin too! I told her what I was doing and she also shared that she uses the GloPRO at home. She is a huge advocate of at-home microneedling.
If you’re on the fence, I suggest at least trying this $10 version. Be consistent and you should start seeing results within 2-3 months.
If you currently use a microneedle, let me know your thoughts in the comments. Do you love it or hate it? And, please share if you have any tips!
xx Ashley
OUTFIT DETAILS:
GloPRO® MicroStimulation Facial Tool | Trish McEvoy Beauty Booster Oil | TULA Hydrating Day and Night Cream c/o | TULA Purifying Face Cleanser c/o ( 20% off all TULA using code ASHLEYR) | Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water | Son & Park Beauty Water | Thin Gold Thumb Ring | The Styled Collection Necklace c/o | The Styled Collection Athens Ring | Black Ruffle Shirt (Fit: I’m wearing a small) | The Styled Collection Bracelet
I will have to look into this, probably start with the $20 one but it sounds really interesting! Thanks for sharing! xo Bryn http://www.waketonroad.com
Hello Bryn,
Thanks so much for your comment and kind words! Definitely start with the $20 one if you’re unsure, I thought it was a great way to give it a try! xx, Ashley
I’ve seen seeing a lot about the Microneedling in the Blog World. I’m so glad you recommended this $20 one. I may just have to try it first! 🙂
Thank you for your comment and kind words! Trying the $20 really helped me decide to get the GloPRO Microneedling Regeneration Tool, so definitely give it a try! Have a great day! xx, Ashley
Great post hun!
http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com
OMG this is so interesting, sending it to my mom so we can look into it more! We both get microdermabrasion and love it, but an at home option between visits would be awesome!
Lauren Lindmark | dailydoseofcharm.com
Great post
The Pink Pineapple
New post:http://thepinkpineappleblog.blogspot.com/
ok this is awesome! I’ve never heard of this! I’ll be trying out the $20 one soon and let you know how it goes!
Hi Lisa,
Please do! I hope you love it too! Thanks for your comment and kind words! Have a great Thursday! xx, Ashley
I just finished using my GloPro for the night and LOVE it! I had never used one before but like you it has changed my skin drastically! So glad to see it benefiting someone else!
Hi Ashley,
That is so great to hear! Yeah, it has definitely made a difference for my skin as well. Have a great day! xx, Ashley
I haven’t thought about trying this but it seems wonderful!
Anika xo | anikamay.co.uk
Thank you so much for this post! I have been trying to research microneedling and now that a blogger I trust is a fan I feel much more confident about trying it.
Hi Nikki,
Thank you so much for your comment and sweet words! I’m so glad I could help you feel more comfortable about trying the product! Definitely try the $20 version if you’re still unsure, but it has really helped my skin! Have a great day! xx, Ashley
I’m sure this is a silly question, but is there blood involved? I hear the word needles and I think blood. I am on blood thinners so I am a little nervous.
Hi! Not a silly question at all. I didn’t bleed when I used this. In terms of comfort, my $20 Microneedle actually felt “sharper” than the GloPRO. Not sure why that is, but it felt more uncomfortable. But I never bled using either one. Hope that helps! xx Ashley
Thank you for this! I have a question… do you still have active breakouts? If so, do you needle during those times? Thank you!!!
Hi Kristy,
I get the occasional breakout, but nothing like before. There’s some research that says to not use it during active breakouts because it can spread bacteria. However, I’ve also heard to do your face (avoiding the breakout), then go back and do JUST the breakout. This will help the medicine get in the skin better to clear up the breakout. You just want to be sure and spray it with alcohol after to kill the bacteria. Personally, I do the latter. I haven’t had an issue with it spreading or causing more breakouts. I hope that helps! xx Ashley
Excellent! Thank you again!
Never even thought this was for me until reading your post, now I think I’ll try the twenty dollar version. Thanks! http://www.primadarling.com
Hi Jolain,
Thank you for your comment! I think you’ll get a great idea of what the product does with just trying the $20 one! Have a wonderful Wednesday. xx, Ashley
Hi Ashley! For the $20 one on Amazon, how did you choose that one? I’m nervous It’s not FDA approved or safe since it doesn’t have a brand name?
Hi Alex,
Thank you for your question! Honestly, I went off of the reviews. Another friend of mine purchased that exact one as well and mentioned that she loved how it worked, so I ordered one too! I know the GloPRO is quite a bit more, but you may like that one since it is an establish brand and reputable product. I loved the $20 one for the first few months and once I determined that it was actually working for my skin, I upgraded to the GloPRO. The GloPRO is definitely made better than the one on Amazon, but it may be worth trying the $20 one just to get a feel for the tool. I hope that helps! xx Ashley
I know you used to use the Clarisonic, do you still or did you just switch completely to this? Thanks!
Hi Charlie,
Thank you for your question! Since the Clarisonic is a gentle cleansing tool, I do still use it about 4-5 times a week in morning. I hop that helps! xx Ashley
Two questions-
1. Have you used it on your legs? The NSale one has a leg attachment and some impressive before/after pic.
2. Did you take any untouched before/after pics?
Hi Jamie,
Great questions. Yes, I have used it on my legs, but not consistently. I need to be better about it since I purchased the body attachment before it went on sale. I do have some before and after pictures that I showed my mom and dermatologist. Send me an email and I’ll show you! Thanks, Ashley
I just ordered the Derma Roller from Amazon and can’t wait to try it!! Hoping it does good things for my sensitive, acne prone skin!!
Hi Jennifer,
So excited you’re going to try it! I hope it works as well for you as it did for me! Thank you for your comment! Have a great day. xx, Ashley
Microneedling is the real deal! I’ve seriously never had better skin since doing it!
xx,
Lacey
The Glitter Gospel
Hi Lacey,
Thank you for your comment and kind words! Completely agree, my skin has changed tremendously. Have a great Monday! xx, Ashley
Can you use Witch Hazel to clean the microneedle instead of rubbing alcohol?
Hi Meghan,
That’s a GREAT idea. I think you could, I honestly don’t see why not. I am ordering some now and going to start using it. Thank’s for the suggestion.
You mentioned not using the Microneedling tool right under your eyes. Why is that?
Hi! The skin around your eyes is a very gentle/delicate area and want to be extra cautious when using that tool around your eye! The crows feet area is ok though! Hope that helps answer your question.
XO, Ashley
So much good information —
Thanks for sharing tips about skin
How microneedling change my skin? It really change my skin and it’s very effective in repairing and rejuvenate my skin. Thanks to my suregon for doing a microneedling procedure.
Thanks for sharing tips about micro-needling procedure what a great article. .Microneedling, a process that punctures little holes in the skin on your neck, face, or torso to stimulate skin restoration. The feel of your skin could be significantly enhanced to look smoother and more even in tone without damaging the epidermis. The after effect looks promising.
I love knowing about the microneedling method because it treats different skin conditions it is amazing how it rebuilds the layer of the skin.
I have ordered glopro and will receive it any day now. Thank you for sharing how to get microneedling done. It was helpful.