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Do At-Home Microneedling Serums Work? Experts Weigh In
Serums filled with tiny, needle-like spicules are the K-beauty secret to smooth, glowing skin.
They say that beauty is pain. But all the best skincare products these days focus on coddling, soothing, and caring for your skin. However, experts all agree that a microneedling serum is the one exception—it's a slightly uncomfortable experience for the greater good of your skin.
Shop the Best Microneedling Serums
Just like an in-office microneedling treatment, the liquid serum version, which is made up of tiny, microscopic needles called spicules, creates tiny punctures or trauma wounds in the skin that signal skin cells to regenerate and increase the production of collagen and elastin. You'll notice improved tone, smoother texture, smaller pores, and an overall glow. "Microneedling serums have become popular as a result of K-beauty and social media," says Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in New York City. "People are continuously looking for at-home options to get glowy skin and this is thought to help with that.
While a liquid microneedling serum doesn't hold a candle to professional microneedling, it mimics the skin-rejuvenating and glow-boosting effects but without wreaking havoc on the skin or leaving skin red and raw. To get the glowing benefits of microneedling at home (at a fraction of the price, might we add), try these top-rated serums that promise to renew skin overnight.
Pros
- Has multiple intensity formulas
- Soothing and hydrating
Cons
Medicube is a fan-favorite K-Beauty brand amongst the Bazaar team, and so is this liquid microneedling serum that can be used daily to help with skin texture, reduce clogged pores, and add radiance—all while improving the skin barrier. The serum contains 15 million spicules coated in exosomes (which act as the messengers to tell skin cells to increase collagen and elastin production, turnover, and more)—plus, soothing panthenol and hydrating niacinamide, so the formula is effective yet nourishing. Plus, it comes in three intensity levels, so you can road test it as a beginner or a liquid microneedling expert.
Key Ingredients: Lacto exosomes, niacinamide, AHA, PHA, BHA
What our editors are saying: "When my skin needs a major pick-me-up or looks lackluster, I reach for Medicube's microneedling serum. I switch between the 2,000 and 7,500 formulas depending on the climate and state of my skin, but I almost always guaranteed to wake up with a glow the morning after I use it." —Katie Intner, beauty market and commerce editor
Pros
- Gives skin an instant radiance
- Contains regenerative PDRN
Cons
- Not vegan
PDRN (also known as salmon DNA) facials are all the rage right now, and the ingredient’s hydrating and collagen-supporting properties make Cosnori’s liquid microneedling even more effective. Microspicules promote cell turnover and allow the PDRN and panthenol to penetrate even deeper into the dermis. The lightweight serum also gives skin an immediate glow that layers beautifully under makeup and other products.
Key ingredients: High-purity microspicules, nutrient-rich PDRN, panthenol
One satisfied customer writes: “Solid exosome action, they feel prickly if you’re new. Product is not expired or oxidated. Great for layering skin care because of that. This is my first PDRN product, so I know results are not immediate like all skin care for long-term benefits. But the immediate is hydration and texture. This is light enough to wear daytime even with the slight exfoliating aspect. Excited to explore other products from this brand. I’m very into regenerative skincare care so this is right up my alley.” —Amazon customer
Pros
- Calming
- Improves product absorption
Cons
If the idea of prickly microneedles sends shivers down your spine, consider this gentle spicule serum that pairs microneedles with Centella Asiatica and hyaluronic acid to soothe and calm skin even while the microscopic needles improve cell turnover, texture, and tone. A bonus: the serum also increases product absorption for any formulas applied on top.
Key Ingredients: Centella asiatica, hyaluronic acid
One satisfied customer writes: "This stuff is a holy grail. I honestly hardly ever write reviews but I have to let anyone who will listen about how great this stuff is. I’m in my 30’s now so I’m even more into finding the right products that actually works for skin. I’ve always taking care of my skin, including monthly hydro facials but over the last 4 years life has been lifeing and the stress has been REAL!" —Barley review
Qure Micro-Infusion 3 Month Bundle
Pros
- Under 5-minute application
Cons
- May not be suitable for beginners or those with sensitive skin
- Pricey compared to other serums
If you're ready to level up from liquid microneedles, try the Qure Micro-Infusion, which provides a true microneedling treatment but in the comfort of your own home. Qure's system uses one of two active serums, featuring ingredients like Epidermal growth factors, niacinamide, and copper peptides, and 24K gold-plated microneedles to infuse skin-improving ingredients deep into the dermis effectively. Since the needles are only 0.5mm, you don't have to worry about causing damage to the dermis—just microchannels that increase collagen and elastin production and product absorption.
Key Ingredients: Gold, Epidermal growth factors, niacinamide, copper peptides, beta-glucan
One satisfied customer writes: "I saw results with the first treatment, by now i have done only 2 treatments and my skin looks smooths, the pigmentation has reduced. I so excited to see results after 4 more treatment. If you are thinking or skeptical about it, let me re-assure you that this will be your best investment for your skin. The micro-infusion treatment is far most my best experience ever. Thank you Qure for making me happy." —Mamoona A.
Pros
- Works on all skin types
- Gentle enough for around the eye area
Cons
Looking to target collagen specifically? Try this collagen and spicule serum, which boasts low-molecular-weight collagen and 120,000 microspicules. The collagen can penetrate deeply into the skin, while the microneedles increase the production of existing collagen.
Key ingredients: Probiotics, hyaluronic acid, collagen spicule
One satisfied customer writes: "I've been using this collagen spicule serum for a few days now and the results have been incredible. Spicules create a tingling sensation that lets you know the product is working its magic, and my skin has never felt smoother or rejuvenated. The serum leaves no sticky residue and my fine lines are noticeably softer. I also love how radiant and firm my skin looks after consistent use. It’s like a mini spa treatment at home!" —Tia Maria
Meet the Experts:
• Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
What do microneedling serums do?
Liquid microneedling is a more gentle version of the in-office technology (at a fraction of the price). "In-office microneedling is intended to create controlled micro-injuries to stimulate collagen production, smoothing out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles," says Garshick. The liquid serum version contains tiny spicules that create similar (but less harsh) injuries to the skin so that you still receive similar benefits of a professional treatment while also allowing the following products to penetrate more deeply. However, in-office microneedling treatments are able to achieve a greater depth compared to microneedling serums, Garshick explains.
How do you use microneedling serums?
Microneedling serums can be applied just like any other serum you use, like those with hyaluronic acid or vitamin C. Garshick warns that it should be applied to clean skin (especially since the micro-channels the spicules create make other products applied on top even more effective). Be warned: you will feel a slight tingling, but it should subside after a few minutes. While some of the serums above have other skin-loving ingredients, Garshick recommends pairing a microneedling serum with products that contain hyaluronic acid or peptides. "Because microneedling serums can enhance penetration, it is best to avoid any ingredients that can be drying or irritating on the skin, such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or salicylic acid," she adds.
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