They are pen-shaped, serve to introduce cosmetic actives into the first layer of the skin and are revolutionizing the aesthetics sector. So far, so clear.
But if you are going to choose the system with which you are going to perform your treatments, it would be better not to be guided only by its price. The differences in the results of these three devices go beyond their commercial name. And each esthetician is best suited to a different one. Or rather: the needs of each client. Let’s see why.
First: how they introduce the active ingredients into the skin.
The Derma Electric Pen and the Hydra Pen use the same system: a head finished with millimetric non-injectable surgical steel tips. These apply pressure so that the applied liquid active ingredients penetrate the epidermis.
The heads in which the tips are located are interchangeable and disposable. Why? Firstly, for hygienic reasons. And secondly, because not all heads have the same number of tips: the greater the number, the more concentrated they are, so they will be used to work more specific areas.
We will not go into details today, but, in general, a 12-tip head will be suitable for body and a 100-tip head for facials.
The Hyaluron Pen, on the other hand, has no tips. Liquid is introduced into the device and released under pressure by means of small compressed air discharges.
So what is the difference between Dermapen and Hydrapen?
Only one, but an important one: the depth to which the tips reach.
Depending on the thickness of the skin we are treating, we must act at one depth or another. For example, it is not the same to work on skin as thin as that of the hands or dark circles under the eyes as it is to work on the buttock area.
The maximum that the Hydra Pen can penetrate is 0.3 millimeters. It is manufactured so as not to exceed that size. In other words, it is ideal for the most sensitive areas, such as dark circles under the eyes. It is also the one we recommend if you are starting with this technique.
With the Derma Electric Pen, on the other hand, you are the one who regulates the length of the tips. So you will have to pay special attention to the skin you are going to treat.
Depending on the area you are going to work on, you will have to adjust the speed of the device in either case.
How does each one work?
Both the Dermapen and Hydra Pen are battery operated, just like an electric toothbrush. So remember that you will need to charge them before use.
The Hyaluron Pen, on the other hand, is not an electronic device. To release the liquid you have to press a button, but the process used is mechanical. It works with its own compressed air pressure. The sensation produced by these shocks is stronger than that caused by the Derma and Hydra, so you will have to manage it perfectly so as not to cause discomfort to your client.
What products can I use with each system?
- Hyaluronic acid. It is the most popular cosmetic active ingredient among the regular users of this technique. If it is low or medium density, you can apply it with all 3 devices, keeping this in mind: non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid is suitable for the Derma Electric Pen and the Hydra Pen, but if you want to use crosslinked hyaluronic acid, you will have to use the Hyaluron Pen. The latter is also suitable for hyaluronic acid with a high density (3.5%), as it is the only one that can penetrate properly because it is thicker.
- Vitamins. One of the most commonly used is vitamin C. You can apply it with the 3 devices.
- Tone-unifying treatments. For example, Bymglow, which promotes a more uniform color, luminosity and fades spots. This type of treatment must act on the horny epidermal layer of the skin, i.e. at a depth of no more than 0.3 millimeters. For this reason, you can use the Hydra Pen or DermaPen properly adjusted.
There are many more liquid cosmetic actives: L-Carnitine, organic silicon, natural extracts… each one has its own specifications, so if you are going to use them, be sure to ask your supplier.
Find out which one is best for you!
In summary, you should consider these variables when choosing between Derma Pen, Hydra Pen and Hyaluron Pen:
- If you are going to do facial, body and/or hand treatments.
- The assets you are going to start with.
- Your experience. If you don’t have any or you want to recycle yourself, the best thing you can do is to train yourself. In this link we inform you about some courses for this season.
Have you already decided which one is yours?