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A to Z on CIT safety

The Core of CIT/Microneedling Should Be Results Without Risk

Over the last few years micro-needling has gained immense popularity as one of the leading esthetic treatments in the industry, large in part to its effectiveness at addressing a variety of skin conditions and concerns, but also in its minimally invasive nature and holistic approach.


Now those seeking to reduce fine lines and wrinkles can look to their body’s own ability to generate new collagen rather than rely on fillers, and clients seeking to minimize the appearance of scars and hyper-pigmentation can look beyond lasers to find an alternative solution.


However, as micro-needling and collagen induction therapy (CIT) is still a relatively new modality (compared to other treatments such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion, which have been mainstream for decades), sometimes CIT can feel like the Wild, Wild West treatment of the esthetic industry.


Whether it’s dangerous dermal rollers being touted as a way to “microneedle at home” by non-licensed beauty editors, or infamous Kim K. selfies of “vampire facial” aftermath, which demonstrates an endpoint of treatment that we know isn’t necessary or conducive for best results (nor is it within the scope of health department codes), there are a couple of key factors that define the magic of micro-needling:

  • Micro-needling performed by a licensed and certified skincare or medical professional helps to ensure the use of proper devices, protocols, and will yield the most effective and favorable results.
  • Safety in sanitation and technique is priority number one.

While safety isn’t the sexiest topic to speak on, especially considering the incredible results we’ve witnessed with micro-needling, which are far more fun to discuss, the bottom line is this:


Results should be absent of risk.


When clients come to us, they aren’t merely entrusting the health and appearance of their skin, but of their overall well-being.


As a refresher, we wanted to cover the A to Z on CIT safety and open the floor for questions (we are here to be your resource and go-to guides!):


In the Treatment Room


  • First, you’ll need to comply with your state/city/county’s regulations on sanitation and disinfection (for example, some states require UV, others Barbicide, etc.)

  • You are required to have a sharps container and dispose of sharps properly with local agencies such as the fire department, health department, pharmacy, etc.)


Treatment Preparation


  • Always wear gloves, but be vigilant! (Take your client’s “before” photos before putting on gloves to keep bacteria from cell phones and other items not properly sterilized for treatment at bay.)

  • Gloves should be put on right before beginning treatment and be non-powder and non-latex to avoid client skin irritation or allergies.

  • To prevent cross-contamination with backbar products, pre-dispose of micro-needling serum or glide into a glass dish before starting treatment.

  • CIT Pen sleeves must be used for every treatment with a new sleeve being used for each client/patient.

Post-Treatment Guidelines


  • Cartridges must be disposed of immediately following treatment. Do not save cartridges for another treatment at a later date as this can lead to cross-contamination due to being a breeding ground for bacteria and skin proteins never fully detaching from the needle tips.

  • Roll your CIT Pen in Barbicide on a sterilizer wipe and let sit for three minutes.


  • Wipe down your bed, roller tray and magnifying lamp, and use your discretion on further safety guidelines per your state/county and product manufacturers for proper sanitation and care.

Have more questions regarding proper safety and sanitation protocol when performing micro-needling in your spa or clinic? Get in touch and we’d be happy to help!


And for more information on how you can become CIT certified and get hands-on education to fine-tune your CIT skills and begin offering top-notch treatments in your practice, click here to learn about our courses or get in touch with us to learn more about private training.



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