As a skincare professional, you know that your clients’ results are a direct reflection of your skills and the tools you use. Choosing the right professional microneedling machine is a critical business decision that impacts everything from client satisfaction to your practice’s reputation. With so many options available, it’s essential to look past the marketing and focus on the features that truly matter: FDA clearance, adjustable depth and speed settings, and consistent, reliable performance. This article is a straightforward guide for practitioners, detailing what to look for in a device that will deliver exceptional results and provide a strong return on your investment.

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Key Takeaways

  • It’s All About Collagen Induction: Microneedling isn’t a surface-level fix; it creates precise micro-channels that trigger your skin’s natural healing response, prompting it to build new collagen and elastin for genuine, long-term rejuvenation.
  • Not All Devices Are Created Equal: A professional, FDA-cleared machine offers adjustable needle depth and sterile, single-use cartridges. These features are critical for a safe, effective treatment and are the key difference between clinical results and at-home maintenance.
  • Your Results Depend on Your Routine: A single treatment is just the beginning. Achieving the best outcome requires a consistent series of sessions paired with a smart aftercare plan that uses hydrating serums to support the healing process and protect your investment.

How Do Microneedling Machines Actually Work?

Microneedling might sound intense, but the principle behind it is surprisingly simple and rooted in your skin’s own ability to heal. Often called collagen induction therapy, the treatment uses a device with fine, sterile needles to create tiny, controlled punctures in the top layer of your skin. This isn’t about causing damage; it’s about sending a signal. These micro-injuries trigger your body’s natural wound-healing response, which is where the real magic happens. Your body rushes to repair these tiny channels by producing fresh collagen and elastin—the proteins that give skin its structure and firmness. Think of it as a gentle nudge to remind your skin to build itself back up, stronger and smoother than before. This process leads to a reduction in the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and uneven texture.

The Science of Skin Rejuvenation

Let’s get into how this process really works. When a microneedling device creates micro-injuries, it kicks your skin’s healing cascade into high gear. Your body immediately begins to produce new tissue, which includes a significant amount of new collagen and elastin fibers. This is why microneedling is so effective; it’s not just a surface-level fix. It fundamentally restructures the skin from the inside out. This new network of protein fibers makes the skin thicker, firmer, and more supple, effectively smoothing out imperfections. This is the core principle behind Corrective Microneedling™, which focuses on harnessing this natural response for targeted skin renewal.

Professional vs. At-Home: What’s the Real Difference?

You’ve probably seen microneedling tools for at-home use, and it’s fair to wonder how they compare to a professional treatment. The key difference comes down to precision, power, and safety. Professional microneedling devices are engineered to penetrate the skin at exact, controlled depths that can be adjusted by a trained practitioner. This precision is what allows for truly effective collagen remodeling and ensures the treatment is tailored to your specific skin concerns. At-home tools, on the other hand, have much shorter needles and are designed for more superficial enhancement, like improving the absorption of your serums. While they can offer a subtle glow, they simply don’t reach the necessary depths to produce the significant, lasting results of a professional session.

What Can Microneedling Really Do for Your Skin?

Beyond the hype, microneedling is a powerful, scientifically backed treatment that can address numerous skin concerns by harnessing your body’s own regenerative power. By creating controlled micro-injuries, it prompts a natural healing cascade that fundamentally improves your skin’s health and appearance from the inside out. This process, known as collagen induction therapy, is the key to achieving lasting, visible results for a variety of common skin issues. Let’s look at what this treatment can actually accomplish.

Kickstart Your Collagen and Elastin Production

Think of collagen and elastin as the essential framework that keeps your skin firm, smooth, and resilient. As we age, our natural production of these proteins slows down, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. Microneedling directly addresses this by creating tiny micro-channels in the skin. Your body perceives these as injuries and rushes to heal them, generating a fresh supply of collagen and elastin in the process. This is why Corrective Microneedling™ is so effective; it helps your skin rebuild its own support structure for a naturally firm and youthful look.

Help Your Skincare Products Work Harder

Are you investing in high-quality serums without seeing the results you want? Microneedling can make a huge difference. The micro-channels created during a treatment act as direct pathways for your skincare products to penetrate deeper into the skin. This increased absorption means the active ingredients in your favorite formulas can get to where they need to go to be truly effective. Pairing your treatment with professionally formulated aftercare serums ensures your skin gets the maximum benefit from potent ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and growth factors, making your entire routine more efficient.

Refine Your Skin’s Texture and Tone

Uneven texture, large pores, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation can be frustrating to deal with. Microneedling helps remodel the skin’s surface for a smoother, more even complexion. As new collagen forms, it helps fill in pitted scars and fine lines while also strengthening the walls of your pores, making them appear smaller. This regenerative process also helps break up pigment and encourages healthy cell turnover. The treatment helps reduce skin laxity and can even tighten pores, resulting in a more radiant and lifted appearance that looks and feels completely natural.

Exploring the Different Types of Microneedling Devices

When you start looking into microneedling, you’ll quickly find that the tools of the trade vary quite a bit. From simple handheld rollers to sophisticated clinical machines, each type of device offers a different experience and level of results. Understanding these differences is the first step in figuring out which approach is right for your skin. The main categories you’ll encounter are manual rollers, electric pens, and advanced radiofrequency (RF) devices. Each one is designed for a specific purpose, whether it’s light at-home maintenance or a powerful, corrective treatment performed by a professional. Let’s break down what makes each one unique so you can feel confident in your choice.

Manual Devices (Dermarollers)

You’ve probably seen these around—manual devices, better known as dermarollers, are handheld tools with a small wheel covered in tiny needles. They are designed for at-home use and are generally the most affordable option. By rolling the device over your skin, you can create micro-injuries that may help stimulate collagen and improve your skin’s texture over time. While they can be a starting point for some, they come with a big learning curve. It’s difficult to apply even pressure, and the needles can enter the skin at an angle, which can cause irritation. Proper sterilization is also critical to prevent infection, so if you go this route, be extremely diligent about hygiene.

Electric Microneedling Pens

Electric microneedling pens are a significant step up from manual rollers and are the standard for professional treatments. These advanced microneedling devices use a motor to move sterile, single-use needle cartridges up and down at a high speed, creating clean, vertical micro-channels in the skin. This precision reduces the risk of tearing and leads to more consistent, effective results. Practitioners can adjust the needle depth and speed to customize the treatment for different areas of the face and specific skin concerns. This level of control allows for a safer and more targeted approach to skin rejuvenation, making it the preferred choice for achieving noticeable improvements in texture, tone, and firmness.

Advanced RF Microneedling Technology

For those looking for the most powerful results, RF microneedling is the gold standard. This technology combines the collagen-stimulating benefits of traditional microneedling with the skin-tightening power of radiofrequency energy. The needles don’t just puncture the skin; they also deliver controlled heat deep into the dermis. This dual action dramatically enhances collagen and elastin production, leading to significant improvements in skin laxity, deep wrinkles, and overall texture. RF microneedling is a clinical treatment that targets the foundational layers of your skin for truly transformative and long-lasting rejuvenation.

Key Features to Look for in a Quality Microneedling Machine

When you’re ready to explore microneedling, it’s important to know that not all devices are created equal. The difference between a high-quality, professional machine and a low-grade imitation comes down to a few critical features. These details impact everything from your safety and comfort to the quality of your results. Understanding what to look for will help you make an informed decision, whether you’re seeking treatment or are a professional adding it to your services. A top-tier device is the foundation of an effective treatment, ensuring every session is safe, precise, and geared toward gorgeous, healthy skin.

Adjustable Needle Depth

Your skin isn’t the same thickness all over. The delicate area under your eyes is much thinner than the skin on your cheeks or forehead. That’s why adjustable needle depth is a non-negotiable feature. A quality machine allows a practitioner to precisely control how deep the needles penetrate, ensuring the treatment is tailored to each specific area. This customization is key to achieving the best results safely, stimulating collagen exactly where you need it without causing unnecessary trauma to more sensitive spots. It’s this level of precision that defines a truly professional treatment.

Variable Speed Settings

Along with depth, the speed of the needles plays a huge role in the treatment’s effectiveness and comfort. High-quality microneedling pens have powerful, reliable motors with variable speed settings. This allows the professional to maintain a consistent and controlled application across the entire treatment area. A steady, predictable motion ensures each micro-channel is created cleanly and uniformly. This precision minimizes drag on the skin, leading to a more comfortable experience and better, more even results. The best microneedling devices are engineered for this kind of consistent performance.

FDA Clearance and Safety Features

When it comes to procedures involving your skin, safety should always be the top priority. FDA clearance is a critical benchmark for any medical device, including microneedling pens. This designation means the device has been reviewed by the FDA for safety and effectiveness for its intended use. Choosing a device that has gone through this rigorous process gives you peace of mind that it meets high standards for performance and manufacturing. For skincare professionals, using an FDA-cleared device is essential for protecting their clients and their practice.

Sterile, Single-Use Needle Cartridges

This is a fundamental aspect of a safe microneedling treatment. Every reputable, professional-grade device uses sterile, single-use needle cartridges. This means a brand-new, sealed cartridge is opened for each client, and it’s disposed of immediately after the session. This practice eliminates the risk of cross-contamination and infection, which can be a serious concern with devices that have reusable tips. Insisting on single-use cartridges ensures the highest level of hygiene, protecting your skin’s health and allowing it to focus on rejuvenation. It also creates the perfect sterile canvas for applying beneficial aftercare serums.

Cordless Design and Ergonomics

Think about the level of detail and control required for a perfect microneedling treatment. A practitioner needs to move smoothly and precisely across every contour of the face. A cordless, lightweight, and ergonomically designed pen makes this possible. It removes the restriction of a cord, allowing for complete freedom of movement and easy access to tricky areas like around the nose and eyes. This thoughtful design reduces hand fatigue for the professional, which translates to a more accurate and consistent treatment for you. It’s a feature that truly distinguishes a well-made, professional-grade tool.

What Sets a Professional Microneedling Device Apart?

When you see a professional microneedling device next to an at-home roller, you might wonder what the big deal is. The difference is more than just the price tag—it’s about engineering, safety, and the results you can achieve. Professional devices are built for performance. They are engineered to penetrate the skin at exact, controlled depths, which is crucial for getting the best results while minimizing risks. Think of it like the difference between a chef’s knife and a butter knife; both can cut, but only one offers the precision needed for a masterpiece.

These machines feature powerful, reliable motors that ensure the needles move in and out of the skin consistently and cleanly, without dragging or tearing. This precision is what stimulates collagen effectively and allows for a safe, predictable treatment every time. Furthermore, professional-grade microneedling devices are designed for practitioners who perform treatments all day. They are durable, ergonomic, and built with high-quality materials that can withstand constant use and sterilization protocols. This level of quality control and performance is what truly separates a clinical tool from a consumer gadget and is essential for delivering the transformative results clients expect from a professional service.

Why Professionals Choose MDPen

When skincare professionals invest in a tool for their practice, they’re looking for a few key things: precision, reliability, and results that keep clients coming back. They need a device that delivers on its promises without an astronomical price tag. That’s why so many practitioners are choosing MDPen. It was created to give licensed professionals a top-tier microneedling experience that rivals more expensive brands. Real-world use has shown that its precision and flexibility lead to incredible client satisfaction. It’s a smart investment that allows professionals to offer exceptional services and see a healthy return, making it a standout choice in a crowded field.

The Importance of FDA-Cleared Devices

Seeing that a device is “FDA-cleared” is more than just a marketing buzzword—it’s a critical indicator of safety and quality. This clearance means the device has been reviewed by the FDA and is considered substantially equivalent to another legally marketed device. For a microneedling pen, this is your assurance that it meets specific standards for performance and safety. A quality pen must have a reliable motor for consistent performance and adjustable depth settings to safely treat different areas of the skin. It also requires sterile, single-use needle cartridges to prevent cross-contamination. Choosing an FDA-cleared device means you’re prioritizing safety and efficacy, which is non-negotiable when it comes to your skin.

The Risks of Low-Quality Devices

Using a low-quality or counterfeit microneedling device can do more harm than good. These devices often have dull or bent needles, weak motors, and inaccurate depth settings. Instead of creating clean micro-channels, they can tear, scratch, or drag across the skin, leading to scarring, hyperpigmentation, and an increased risk of infection. Since the goal of microneedling is controlled, microscopic injuries to trigger healing, using a subpar tool completely undermines the process. Proper treatment and aftercare are essential for your skin to heal correctly and for you to get the most out of your session. Opting for a proven, professional Corrective Microneedling™ treatment ensures the device is up to standard, protecting your skin from unnecessary complications.

Understanding the Cost of Microneedling Machines

The price of microneedling machines varies widely, and for good reason. The cost directly reflects a device’s technology, safety features, and the quality of results it can produce. From basic at-home tools to advanced clinical systems, understanding the different price tiers helps explain why professionals invest in high-quality equipment. It’s about matching the right tool to your specific skincare goals, whether you’re looking for a little maintenance at home or a truly transformative treatment in a clinic.

What to Expect from Entry-Level Devices

Entry-level devices are what you’ll typically find for at-home use. These tools often feature very short needles, usually around 0.25mm, which are designed to gently work on the skin’s outermost layer. Because the needles are so short, they don’t penetrate deep enough to stimulate the kind of significant collagen production you get from a professional treatment. Instead, their main benefit is helping your skincare products absorb more effectively, giving your routine a little extra edge. They are the most affordable option, but it’s important to have realistic expectations about the results they can achieve on their own.

The Investment in a Professional-Grade Machine

A professional microneedling device is a serious investment because it’s a completely different class of technology. These machines are built for clinical precision, offering estheticians and dermatologists total control over needle depth and speed to tailor treatments for each client. This quality ensures consistent, safe, and transformative results that aren’t possible with at-home tools. For practitioners, investing in a high-quality, FDA-cleared device is essential for building client trust and delivering the effective outcomes that keep people coming back. It’s a commitment to excellence and safety.

The Premier Cost of RF Technology

At the top end of the spectrum are RF microneedling machines. These advanced devices combine traditional microneedling with radiofrequency energy, delivering thermal energy deep into the dermis. This powerful combination does more than just trigger collagen production; it also tightens the skin, providing more dramatic results for concerns like skin laxity and deeper wrinkles. The sophisticated engineering required to deliver this energy safely and effectively drives the higher cost. For clinics wanting to offer the most advanced Corrective Microneedling™ treatments, RF technology provides a premier solution for skin rejuvenation.

Microneedling Myths, Busted

There’s a lot of chatter about microneedling online, and not all of it is accurate. It can be tough to separate fact from fiction when you’re trying to do what’s best for your skin. Let’s clear up a few common myths so you can feel confident about your treatment choices.

Myth: All Devices Are Created Equal

The truth is, the quality and technology behind microneedling devices vary dramatically. A professional, FDA-cleared device is engineered for precision, safety, and consistent results. These machines use sterile, single-use needle cartridges and powerful motors to create clean micro-channels at a precise depth. In contrast, many lower-quality devices can drag or tear the skin, leading to irritation and unpredictable outcomes. Remember, the device is just one piece of the puzzle. A successful treatment also depends on the quality of the serums used during the procedure and the professional guidance you receive for aftercare.

Myth: At-Home Results Are the Same as Professional

While at-home rollers can offer a surface-level glow by helping your skincare products absorb a little better, they simply can’t compare to a professional treatment. A clinical procedure like Corrective Microneedling™ is designed to remodel collagen deep within the dermis, which is what truly improves concerns like fine lines, acne scars, and uneven texture. Professionals use devices with adjustable, longer needles to safely reach these deeper layers of skin—something that isn’t possible or safe to do at home. A trained practitioner performs the treatment in a sterile environment, ensuring you get effective results without the risk of infection or skin damage.

Myth: Microneedling Damages Your Skin

It sounds a little scary to intentionally create tiny punctures in your skin, but professional microneedling doesn’t cause damage. Instead, it creates controlled micro-injuries that kickstart your body’s natural healing process. This response is exactly what you want—it signals your skin to produce new, healthy collagen and elastin, which firms and smooths your complexion from the inside out. While you can expect some redness for a day or two (like a mild sunburn), the recovery is quick. The real risk of damage comes from using low-quality devices or improper techniques, which is why it’s so important to see a trained professional.

How to Choose the Right Microneedling Device for You

Picking the right microneedling device feels like a big decision, because it is. This isn’t just another skincare gadget; it’s a tool designed to work with your body’s natural healing processes to create real change in your skin. The best choice for you depends entirely on your personal needs, what you hope to achieve, and where you plan on receiving treatment. Forget the one-size-fits-all approach. To find the perfect fit, you need to get clear on what your skin is telling you.

Think of it as a three-step process. First, you’ll take a close look at your skin to identify your primary concerns. Are you dealing with fine lines, old acne scars, or just a general lack of radiance? Next, you’ll translate those concerns into concrete goals. Do you want to soften deep wrinkles or simply maintain a healthy glow? Finally, you’ll decide whether you’re looking for a professional-level transformation or a tool for at-home maintenance. Answering these questions honestly will point you toward the device that can deliver the results you’re looking for safely and effectively.

Consider Your Skin’s Unique Needs

Before you can choose a device, you need to understand what you’re working with. Your skin is unique, and its needs are specific to you. Microneedling is a powerful, scientifically backed treatment that can address numerous skin concerns by harnessing your body’s own regenerative power. Take a moment to assess your complexion. Are you focused on smoothing the texture of your skin, minimizing the appearance of large pores, or fading discoloration? Or are your concerns more significant, like deep-set acne scars or prominent wrinkles that have been around for years? Identifying your primary issues is the essential first step in finding a solution that truly works.

Define Your Ultimate Skincare Goals

Once you know your skin’s needs, you can set clear goals. What does your ideal complexion look like? If you’re aiming for general upkeep and a brighter tone, your path will be different than someone seeking dramatic correction. Corrective Microneedling™ is a treatment for concerns like deep scars and wrinkles, requiring a powerful, medical-grade device to achieve visible change. For these transformative results, the equipment must be capable of reaching specific depths with precision and power. If your goal is simply to enhance your daily skincare routine, a less intensive approach might seem appealing, but understanding the difference in outcomes is key.

Decide Between At-Home Care and Professional Treatment

This is where you weigh efficacy against convenience. While you can find microneedling tools to use at home, they operate on a completely different level than professional equipment. A professional microneedling device isn’t just a more powerful version of an at-home tool; it’s a completely different class of technology designed for clinical precision, safety, and transformative results. Treatments performed by a trained practitioner use sterile, single-use cartridges and precise depth settings to minimize risks and maximize your skin’s regenerative response. This professional oversight ensures you get the best possible outcome without compromising your skin’s health.

Your Guide to Aftercare and Device Maintenance

Choosing the right microneedling device is just the first step. What you do after your treatment—and how you care for your equipment—is just as important for achieving that healthy, radiant complexion you’re looking for. Proper aftercare ensures your skin heals beautifully, while diligent device maintenance guarantees safe and effective treatments every single time. Think of it as protecting your investment in your skin and your professional tools. Let’s walk through the essentials for keeping your skin happy and your device in top condition.

Essential Post-Treatment Skincare

After a microneedling session, your skin is in a sensitive, regenerative state. Following a dedicated aftercare routine is crucial for proper healing and getting the most out of your treatment. For the first 48 hours, avoid makeup and stick to a simple regimen. Gently cleanse your skin morning and night, and keep it well-hydrated with a high-quality moisturizer. Sun protection is non-negotiable; avoid direct sun exposure for about two weeks. It’s also wise to steer clear of active ingredients like retinoids and exfoliating acids for 10 to 14 days. Instead, focus on nourishing your skin with specialized aftercare serums designed to support the healing process.

How to Keep Your Device Sterile

Whether you’re a professional treating clients or using a device at home, sterility is paramount. A clean device is the foundation of a safe and effective microneedling treatment, preventing the risk of infection and ensuring predictable results. Before and after every use, your device should be thoroughly cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For professionals, maintaining a sterile environment is a key part of providing a high standard of care. Using medical-grade disinfectants and adhering to strict hygiene protocols protects your clients and upholds the integrity of your practice. This commitment to safety is a hallmark of professional-grade microneedling devices.

When to Replace Needle Cartridges

This is one rule you should never bend: needle cartridges are single-use only. A quality microneedling pen, whether for professional or home use, must be used with sterile, disposable needle cartridges for every single treatment. Reusing a cartridge is not only unhygienic and a serious infection risk, but it also compromises your results. The ultra-fine needles become dull after just one use, and a dull needle can cause unnecessary irritation and trauma to the skin. For a safe and effective Corrective Microneedling™ treatment that delivers the best outcome, always start with a fresh, sterile needle cartridge.

How to Get the Best Results from Your Treatment

Getting that radiant, healthy-looking skin you’re after involves more than just the microneedling session itself. The real magic happens when you combine a great treatment with a smart, consistent approach. Think of it as a partnership between you, your practitioner, and your skincare routine. By focusing on a few key areas—consistency, the quality of the device, and what you put on your skin afterward—you can make sure you’re getting the absolute most out of every single treatment. It’s about creating a complete plan that supports your skin’s natural rejuvenation process from start to finish.

The Role of Consistency

While you’ll likely notice a fresh glow after your first microneedling session, the most significant and lasting changes come from consistency. Microneedling works by prompting your skin’s natural healing response to build new collagen, and this process takes time. Each session builds on the results of the last, leading to more dramatic improvements in skin texture, tone, and firmness over time. For this reason, microneedling isn’t a one-and-done fix. Working with a skincare professional to map out a series of Corrective Microneedling™ treatments will help you achieve and maintain your specific skin goals, whether you’re targeting fine lines, acne scars, or overall radiance.

Why Needle Quality and Depth Matter

The effectiveness and safety of your treatment hinge on the quality of the device used. A professional microneedling device is engineered to penetrate the skin at precise, controlled depths, which is crucial for stimulating collagen production without causing unnecessary damage. High-quality microneedling devices use sterile, single-use needle cartridges and reliable motors to ensure every puncture is clean and consistent. This precision allows your practitioner to safely treat different areas, from the delicate skin around your eyes to thicker skin on your cheeks. Using a low-quality tool with dull needles or an unreliable motor can tear the skin, leading to a painful experience and poor results.

Pairing Your Treatment with the Right Serums

Microneedling creates thousands of tiny micro-channels in your skin, which dramatically increases the absorption of skincare products. This makes your post-treatment routine incredibly important. Applying the right serums immediately after your session can supercharge your results. Look for products with hydrating and healing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides that soothe the skin and support the recovery process. It’s just as important to know what to avoid. For the first few days after treatment, steer clear of active ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, and exfoliating acids that could cause irritation. Following a proper aftercare plan with high-quality serums will help you heal faster and see better, longer-lasting results.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is professional microneedling painful? This is probably the number one question I get, and it’s a fair one! Most people describe the sensation as a light vibration or a bit like sandpaper being moved across the skin. Your practitioner will apply a topical numbing cream before the treatment begins, which makes the entire process very comfortable. You might feel it a bit more on bonier areas, like your forehead or jawline, but it’s generally very tolerable.

What is the recovery time like after a treatment? You can expect your skin to look and feel like you have a mild sunburn for about 24 to 48 hours after your session. This redness is a normal response and a sign that your skin’s healing process has begun. Most people feel comfortable returning to their regular activities the very next day. Following the proper aftercare instructions from your provider is the key to a quick and easy recovery.

How many sessions will I need to see results? While you’ll likely notice a brighter, fresher look after just one treatment, the most significant results appear over time. Microneedling works by building new collagen, and each session builds upon the last. For general skin rejuvenation, a series of 3-4 treatments is often recommended. If you’re addressing deeper concerns like acne scars, you might need closer to 6 sessions. Your practitioner will help you create a plan tailored to your specific skin goals.

Why can’t I get the same results with an at-home roller? The main difference comes down to safety and effectiveness. Professional devices use sterile, single-use needles that penetrate the skin vertically at precise, adjustable depths. This is what allows them to safely reach the layer of skin where new collagen is actually formed. At-home rollers have much shorter needles that can’t reach these depths and often enter the skin at an angle, which can cause irritation or tearing. A professional treatment is designed to fundamentally remodel your skin, while at-home tools are better for enhancing product absorption on the surface.

Are the results from microneedling permanent? Microneedling creates new, lasting collagen that helps improve the structure and appearance of your skin for a long time. However, the treatment doesn’t stop the natural aging process. To maintain your results and continue to support your skin as it ages, most professionals recommend periodic maintenance sessions. Think of it as a powerful way to reset your skin’s health, which you can then maintain with a great skincare routine and follow-up treatments.