An introduction to microneedling
Getting active ingredients deep into your skin immediately and safely, where they can be effective is the key to tackling any skin concern including wrinkles, scars and discolouration. Yet research shows that only 4-8% of that serum you’re using actually penetrates when you apply it with your hands.
This is because our skin has a thick outer layer called the strateum corneum that has an important job – to keep things out of our body like dirt and bacteria. It does this so well that the effect of all our creams and serums is limited – even the £200 ones. This vital outer layer serves as a barrier for the liquid and thus only a few of their molecules are able to reach where they’re needed to be effective. Think about the serums and creams you’ve wasted money on, and the months you spent waiting to see results all because only 4% was getting through.
The Hydra Needle is the home microneedling device that completely solves this problem. The high-quality bottle dispenses your serums, while teeny 24 karat gold-plated microneedles create channels in your skin that get ingredients where they’re needed. Doing this even tricks your body into starting its healing process to create new glowing skin.
In the next few minutes, we’ll explain how it works, show you exactly how to use it, and answer all the questions you may have about the treatment.
How it all works
The device has 20 small micro-needles on its surface that only go up to 0.6mm and are thinner than a human hair. When dotted on the skin they create pathways that lead your products past your outer skin layer.
The needles 0.5mm and above can delve into the second layer of skin, triggering your body’s wound healing response, at which point the following occurs: (1) The skin releases substances that stimulate growth, leading to new healthy skin being created, (2) the skin starts to produce more collagen leading to fewer wrinkles and much firmer skin.
What skin conditions can I treat with microneedling?
Microneedling is one of the few treatments that can help with a large array of skin-related problems, including:
- Wrinkles
- Scarring
- Acne
- Skin pigmentation issues
- Enlarged pores
- Rosacea
- Loose skin
- Hair loss
How to use the Hydra Needle
Microneedling treatments typically cost anywhere between £200-350. But the truth is that you don’t need to pay these extortionate fees as long as you’re using a device below 0.6mm and can follow the proper technique used by professionals. We’ve detailed everything you need to know in the steps below along with some tips.
Step 1: Disinfect your Hydra Needle
Disinfect your device by letting it soak in 70 per cent isopropyl alcohol for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. Leave it to dry on a clean surface such as a paper or cotton towel.
Step 2: Wash your face
Thoroughly cleanse your face using a gentle pH-balanced cleanser.
If you’re using a length of 0.5mm or longer, you’ll also need to wipe down your face with 70 per cent isopropyl alcohol before the microneedling process. You can do this after applying numbing cream if you require it.
Step 3: Apply numbing cream (optional)
Depending on your tolerance, you may need to apply an anaesthetic cream. Follow the instructions the manufacturer provides on or in the packet and be sure to completely wipe it off before you start needling. Typically, it takes up to 30 minutes for the topical anaesthetic to work.
Step 4: Prepare your Hydra Needle
After your Hydra Needle has been sterilised and dried:
- Pour your serum of choice into the glass bottle
- Place the top on and screw it tightly
- Shake the Hydra Needle gently from side to side several times to bring the serum to the tip
- Press the button in the centre if you need to help the serum exit
Step 5: Begin microneedling
If you intend on treating your entire face instead of specific areas of concern, splitting your face into sections will make the whole process easier. You should start on the right cheek and right side of the nose, move to the upper lip and the neck area from the right to the centre. Then complete the forehead and the other side of your face.
Now for the technique:
- Stamp the Hydra Needle straight down on the areas you wish to treat
- Use only very gentle to moderate pressure, depending on the thickness of skin on the area. Never use excessive force
- Go over every region you intend to treat 4 times to begin with, as your skin adjusts, you can gradually increase this to 6-8 times.
Step 6: Aftercare
Apply petroleum jelly to the treatment area.
Our Top tips
- Never use excessive pressure while microneedling. Be gentle (similar to pressing the button on an elevator). Some pressure is good, but more is not necessarily better.
- If you'd like to stamp further in, hold the skin taut.
- Serums have different viscosity, and this influences how well they exit your device. Try to choose a serum that does not have a thick texture.
- Also note, the faster you stamp the Hydra Needle, the more serum will be dispensed. If you find that your serum is not being released adequately, lightly shake the Hydra Needle, or angle slightly.
- Avoid needling around the eye area with any needle length longer than 0.25mm and go over this area incredibly lightly.
- Also tread lightly around the forehead where the skin is thinner and around the jawline where it’s easier to scar.
- Never drag the Hydra Needle across your skin as this can lead to scratches.
- Do not use irritating products such as chemical exfoliates e.g., salicylic acid and lactic acid, or active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, retinol and tretinoin etc during or after treatment. It’s advised you stop such treatments 4 days before microneedling.
Frequently asked questions
You should avoid microneedling if you have:
- Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
- Extreme keloidal tendency
- You have a history of blood-clotting problems
- You are using Accutane or other medical treatments.
The Hydra Needle should also not be used anywhere there is:
- Active acne
- Eczema
- Sunburn
- Herpes and warts
- Moles
- Skin inflammation
- Rosacea
Well-documented research shows that people can achieve improvement in acne scarring and fine lines after just 3 sessions. The very best results however, tend to appear within 2 to 3 months of regular use. Result times will of course depend on factors like needle length, what you’re trying to achieve, your age and the severity of your conditions. Generally speaking, the longer you carry on microneedling, the more difference you’ll see.
There are some that don’t recommend microneedling for home use because they believe people cannot do so effectively and safely at home. Interestingly, these people tend to provide microneedling services at their clinics for a high price. However, most people, including professionals, agree that devices 0.6mm and below can be safely used at home. This is because the microneedles don’t travel deep enough to cause harm to the skin, as long as people follow the proper guidance and hygiene practices. All those who make a purchase at Micropurify are directed to further resources that provide fool-proof instructions on using the Hydra Needle.
There are a number of precautions you should take while microneedling.
- Always disinfect your Hydra Needle before use: a dirty derma needle can introduce bacteria into your skin causing infection or inflammation.
- If you notice a build-up anywhere on your Hydra Needle, cease you.
- If you drop your Hydra Needle, causing damage to the needles, do not use.
- If you want to cleanse your face immediately after microneedling, do so with water only.
- Never share your derma needle to prevent transference of disease.
- Consult your doctor if you are taking medications before the procedure.
- Do not use irritating topical products, such as chemical exfoliates e.g. salicylic acid and lactic acid, active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, retinol or tretinoin ect during or after treatment. Experts advise stopping such treatments 4 days before microneedling.
- You should avoid wearing makeup, sunscreen and tanning lotion immediately following treatment – these products were not designed for deep penetration into the skin. On top of this, avoid taking hot showers (can cause irritation) and exercising (sweat contains bacteria). You can resume all these practices after 24 hours.
- Invasive treatments such as chemical peels, laser or microdermabrasion should be avoided until skin is recovered.
- After use, place the cap back on your Hydra Needle, and store it in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight.
There are various sizes of microneedles ranging between 0.2mm and 3.0mm, each suited for particular sets of skin complications, from mild to those that are more deeply embedded in the skin layers.
If you are looking to simply increase the effectiveness of your skincare products opt for a 0.25mm sized needle. Though at this level it will not stimulate collagen.
If you intend to treat more engrained scars and wrinkles using your body’s own natural healing mechanisms and proteins, with the added benefit of boosted potency of your skincare products, then opt for a 0.5mm. This length is enough to trigger a cascade of collagen and growth factors in the skin. It can also achieve similar results to that of a 1.0mm and 1.5mm, but requires more treatments.
Although you can buy longer needles for at-home use, it’s best to stick to devices with a needle length of 0.5mm and less. The higher the size, the more risk of complications. Any derma needle above this length is best left to a professional.
As a general guide to choosing microneedle sizes by condition, the British College of Aesthetic Medicine recommends the following:
0.25mm: Increased penetration of skincare products into the skin and overall improvement of skin colour and texture.
0.5mm: Wrinkles, anti-aging, light acne scarring, enlarged pores, mild chicken pox or ice pick scars, discolouration, uneven skin tone or texture, also recommended for thinning hair.
1.0mm, 1.5mm: Deep stretch marks, cellulite and deep scarring and discolouration
2.0mm, 2.5mm, 3.0mm: For more severe cases, deep scars and wrinkles, rejuvenation of badly damaged skin.
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure so as long as you use the right technique in conjunction with the right serum; you’re unlikely to experience side effects. Possible side effects include:
Redness: You may experience slight redness immediately after treatment. This is normal.
Irritation: Microneedling can cause skin irritation if not done correctly so be sure to follow the provided instructions in the ‘how to use’ section. Do not go over the same area too many times as this could lead to swelling and damage.
Infection: To prevent infection remember to always sterilise the instrument as shown with 70% alcohol. A dirty needle can introduce bacteria into your skin.
Increased breakouts: The device is not to be used on active acne. Doing so can spread bacteria and cause further breakouts.
Adverse reaction: Since microneedling creates micro-channels, intensifying the effectiveness of your products, using it with any harsh ingredients can irritate your skin or cause an adverse reaction.
Discolouration: In certain circumstances, people may experience hyperpigmentation. To avoid this, be sure not to apply excessive pressure, and always do a patch test first to see if your skin can tolerate the treatment. Wait two days before doing a full facial treatment.
The key to remaining safe is to follow proper usage techniques and hygiene practices. Although many people want to see results as quickly as possible, it’s also important to allow your skin to heal fully in between sessions.
Yes. However, you should only use each device up to 5 times. This is because the needles get blunt and microneedling with dull needles can cause skin damage.
It is also essential to disinfect your device before every use by letting it soak in 70% isopropyl alcohol for 10 minutes.
Any microneedling device intended for professional use should be single use only. This is because these devices should never be shared or used on different people. Clinics will usually have lots of patients, it is therefore far safer (and convenient) for them to throw away a small device than to label and store ones used by different people. Because you’ll be the only using your Hydra Needle you can use it multiple times. You also (hopefully) won’t be storing it near other microneedling devices used by other people.
The micro-channels opened created by the device begin healing immediately. Studies suggest that they stay open up to 20 hours (needles longer than 0.5mm and ingredients that slow healing can lengthen this time). This is also why it’s a good idea to avoid harsh products for up to 24 hours, in order to stop damaging ingredients getting into your skin while the channels are open.
If you decide to use a serum with your Hydra Needle, choose one with ingredients known to tackle your skin concern or speed renewal and healing. You can also combine serums to fit your individual needs. Ingredients to look out for include:
Vitamin C: Perfect for discolouration. This ingredient has been shown to fade hyperpigmentation including dark marks, sun spots, age spots and melasma, as well as give an overall even and bright skin tone. But be careful with vitamin C (ascorbic acid), as it has an inherently low pH that can irritate your skin. It only takes 3 daily applications of 20% ascorbic acid to completely saturate the skin with vitamin C.
Hyaluronic Acid: You should look out for this super ingredient, it’s gentle and studies have shown it significantly speeds up wound healing in addition to hydrating and plumping your skin (1) (2) (3).
Epidermal growth factors: Great for signs of aging. EGFs speed wound recovery and stimulate skin growth; this increased cell turnover gives you new fresh skin. It also stimulates collagen to improve skin texture and elasticity – smoothing the appearance of wrinkles.
Niacinamide: Excellent for improving general skin health. Niacinamide or vitamin B-3 is versatile and has been shown to handle a number of skin concerns including minimising enlarged pores, improving uneven skin tone, softening fine lines and wrinkles, diminishing dullness, and strengthening weakened skin. Niacinamide can also improve wound healing.
No. Microneedling is what is referred to as a type of fractional treatment, in which only a fraction of the surface of the skin is affected. As explained by Harvard Health, the skin around each micro-wound is left unharmed, allowing for the rapid healing and short recovery time associated with microneedling.
It’s also important to note that “the needles do not create a wound in a real sense, but rather body cells are fooled into believing that the injury has occurred” to stimulate regeneration of new skin.
Despite the fact that many needles are involved, it’s a lot less painful than you’d think. The thin, short nature of the needles means you’ll barely feel it at all with a 0.25mm.
Numbing cream is recommended for needles 0.5mm and above, but whether you need it depends on your individual level of tolerance. You can purchase this from any drug store or on Amazon.
When using anaesthetic cream, follow the instructions the manufacturer provides on or in the packet, and make sure to completely wipe it if off before you start needling. Typically, it will take up to 30 minutes for the topical anaesthetic to work.
Jade rollers are beauty tools that date back thousands of years to 17th century China, where jade, a semi-precious stone was said to have energy-healing properties that helped keep skin youthful. These tools may help with puffiness (due to them being cold) and improve circulation (due to the massaging motions), but there is no scientific research on jade rollers, and thus, they are not recommended or used by dermatologist. Microneedling devices, on the other hand, have extensive research proving their effectiveness, and are common treatments at clinics.
The derma roller and Hydra Needle (a type of derma stamp) work in much the same way – they create micro-wounds to stimulate collagen and increase the absorption of skincare products. However, they are designed differently with different consequences for your skin and results.
Less trauma to skin: When using a derma roller, the needles are exiting and entering at an angle due to the device’s cylinder shape. This creates tearing around the holes and more trauma to the skin than is necessary. With a derma stamp, the needles are entering straight down, not at an angle, so the holes are only as wide as the very fine needles. This means a quicker healing time.
Simultaneous serum injection: The micro-wounds created by the needles actually begin closing immediately, making it more difficult for nutrients to be absorbed. Most dermatologists recommend putting serum onto the skin first, then microneedling and adding more serum. The Hydra Needle’s efficient delivery system completely solves this issue, meaning a faster treatment and better results, as well as less serum wasted repeatedly applying it over your face.
Full control: With the derma roller you can’t control the depth at which all needles penetrate or where they penetrate because they are on an angle. With a derma stamp, you know exactly how deep the needles are going each time. You’re also able to create evenly spaced channels, and not the erratically spaced channels created by a cylinder.
Easy to use: Derma rollers require a special technique that involves rolling vertically, horizontally and diagonally and lifting the roller at the right time to avoid the dreaded track marks. The Hydra Needle, on the other hand, simply requires dotting the device on the skin. This means you can skip the learning curve and avoid unnecessary side effects.
Better with small areas: While a derma roller, which has an average of just under 200 needles on it, will provide efficient coverage, derma stamps are far better for working with hard to reach areas that require smaller tips such as: above the lip, the nose area, around the eyes and the forehead. Essentially, you can avoid buying a roller only to find out that it’s far too awkward to roll around your nose or under your neck.
Less painful: The pain is considerably lower when using a derma stamp like the Hydra Needle, as it does not tear the skin like a derma roller does. This means you can get a far more efficient and longer session in.
Another microneedling benefit is that this treatment isn’t exclusive to the face. It can be done on any area of skin that needs to be repaired — including areas that display stretch marks or acne scars, like the legs, chest, back and buttock. 4 to 6 sessions could make a real difference in these areas.
Yes, many people use microneedling devices with Minoxidil for hair loss.
Shorter needle depths (0.25mm – 0.5mm) will improve the absorption of topicals like Minoxidil, however, likely won’t evoke the growth factors necessary to encourage hair follicle proliferation. For this effect to occur, you need longer needle depths (i.e., 1.5mm – 2.5mm) to puncture the dermis of your scalp skin. This will have important ramifications for hair follicle proliferation, because the dermis is where the hair follicle stem cell bulge resides.
There are 20 needles on the device.
The needles on this device are made of strong titanium, and plated with 24K gold, a metal with natural anti-inflammation properties.
Yes, in strict accordance with the ISO13485 international quality standard, and the EU’s EN ISO 11135-1:2017 regulation, Hydra Needle’s are sterilised with Ethylene Oxide Gas, which is able to disrupt the DNA of microorganisms, thereby preventing them from reproducing. It is widely used to sterilise a variety of healthcare products, such as single-use medical devices.
Moreover, the device comes with a hygiene cap that will help unnecessary contact with the needles, meaning there’s less chance of them bending or being contaminated.
Despite this, you should still disinfect your Hydra Needle before use.
No, 99% is not better. You need 70% because it evaporates more slowly which allows it to come into complete contact with microbial life.
No. Boiling water can kill bacteria and germs but should not be used to disinfect your device.
Materials: Glass, Titanium, 24K Gold
Needle Length: 0.25mm, 0.5mm
Needle number: 20
Needle Diameter: 0.13mm
Bottle capacity: 10ml
Functions: Tightening of skin, Hydration, Rejuvenation, Acne scars, Fine lines, Reduced pore size.
Package size: 12*8*2.5/1pc/32g