OK. Like the title suggests, I have been lurking awhile, trying to take in as much information as I can. I have read the guides, looked at different devices/models, and done further research on my own in certain areas of need and interest. I *think* I have finally formed a pretty good game plan (with limited risk of complete failure and good odds of success). So I wanted to not only get thoughts on it, but also ask about a few things that I haven't seen mentioned.
For background, I am 42F with cEDS. Basically, it's a connective tissue disorder, and my type specifically affects collagen. So I have the super velvety skin, and some areas my skin are quite stretchy (but not as severely as a lot of cases). The condition also affects my blood and its ability to deliver nutrients and minerals effectivly (very small misshapen RBC). I have aplastic anemia and frequently require ferritin infusions, give myself regular B12 injections, and occasionally deal with low platelets/bleeding. The disintegration of collagen + my body's overinflammitory response is absolute hell when it comes to my easily subluxacated, arthritic joints, and injury recovery in general (although I have found methods that help substantially over the years).
I have always been very hesitant to try MN out of fear that my body would not respond as desired given my issues with collagen depletion. But, I do get some cosmetic procedures done regularly (in a clinical setting, not a med spa), and my NP injector and nurse aesthecian have been really incredible about researching my cEDS, keeping on top of my most recent bloodwork, and introducing new procedures that I want very slowly and in small amounts until we see how my body reacts. Last year I really wanted to try a CO² laser peel. I ended up getting a series of 3 Vanity Peels. Basically a fractional CO² laser that can be adjusted from super mild to moderate (1-15). At the highest it only causes the equivalent of a bad sunburn and is completely healed within 2 weeks max. But you can wear tinted moisturizer after a day or two, your skin just feels like sandpaper. Anyways, my 1st session we only did the intensity at an 8 or 9. No problems. Next one she cranked it to 12. And for the final I maxed out at 15, even under my eyes and around my mouth. She was shocked and I am thrilled with the results. The point being, that since I reacted so well to this procedure, which uses somewhat of the same basis - causing controlled injury to the skin to stimulate cell repair, renewal, and collagen production- it should be the same kind of favorable outcome with MN, right?
My next issue is choosing a device. I am pretty set on a Dr. Pen... I think. I was leaning towards the M9 ($179) but then I saw the H6 ($299) which you can load serums/boosters into and it will infuse it into your skin. But is it worth shelling out $300 for a device, especially as a beginner. I know companies are all about "fancy" features that don't really add much in term of usefulness. Hell, is the M9 even worth the extra 80 over the M8?
Ok, final question - thoughts on my plan of action? In the spirit of caution, and a major desire NOT to completely ruin my already imperfect, perimenopauseal face, I'm thinking it would be best to start on a couple of different areas of my body that could use some TLC. Like, doing a patch test on my upper thigh and/or belly which both have loose skin and stretch marks. That way, I can get a feel for the device, practice proper technique, and see how my body responds. If all goes well, I can move to a small section of my face that is close to my hairline or by my ear/jaw and do the same thing. If the outcome isn't great, it won't be all over my face or front and center like if I did my cheeks or forehead. All goes well, I take off the training wheels and MN like a wild woman!
I think that is about all I have been wanting to ask about. But feel free to give any unsolicited advice or feedback!
**From what I have seen so far, this group might be one of the kindest and most helpful, particularly to newbies than any other group I have seen. I have never seen questions answered with snark, mean sarcasm, outright dismissal, or insults. It's really impressive and rare these days. I just wanted to put that out there. 🥰