Microneedling-In-A-Bottle: TikTok Serum Worth It?

Buzz Feed

11 hours ago

The wonderful world of TikTok is a minefield of information, and one of my favorite topics of discovery is the latest in beauty trends, especially skincare.
I've come across Medicube's K-beauty products for some time now — everyone from Kylie and Kendall Jenner to the latest beauty influencers seemed to have, at least, tested its products out. But what got me the most intrigued was the viral tingly and prickly Zero Exosome Shot serum AKA the "microneedling" in a bottle serum.
The product, according to its website, is inspired by the "principles of microneedling." It contains tiny spore-like spicules that penetrate the skin barrier and deliver active ingredients to the skin. It promises an array of benefits that include: pore reduction, smoother skin texture, a stronger skin barrier, and a more radiant complexion.
It sounded like everything I would hope for from a skincare practice! Plus, at $22 (it's often on sale for less), it lets me stay inside and potentially see microneedling-like results at home? I mean, say less!
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jenny Liu shared her insight with BuzzFeed on what exactly exosomes are, and how they can offer the benefits of a "microneedling" experience.
"Exosomes are microscopic extracellular vesicles — tiny packets of information that cells use to communicate with each other," Dr. Liu said. In short, they're like little messengers that deliver "signals" to promote "healing and cellular repair." She continued, "When used in skincare products, exosomes help rejuvenate the skin by enhancing cell turnover, improving texture, and restoring the skin barrier."
Microneedling is a "controlled" procedure where "fine needles" are used to create "micro-injuries" in the skin, triggering a "wound-healing response." In return, the skin boosts collagen and elastin production, along with improving "scars, fine lines, and skin texture."
Both methods basically signal the skin to heal and boost production of "anti-aging benefits," like collagen, leading to increased hydration, skin resilience, smoother texture, etc.
With all this in mind, I was excited to embark on this skincare journey. I tested the serum for two weeks, using it every other night. I tested the mild version, which can be used every day, but because of my skin sensitivity, I opted for every other day. The other versions have a higher potency range from a three-day cycle to a seven-day one. Here's how it went:
Below is the general state of my skin. I deal with hormonal acne and skin sensitivity so I'm always trying to clear up dark spots and achieve an even, glowing complexion.
My chin was fortunately spared this month.
As always, I started with clean skin. I absolutely love the COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Face Cleanser. Then, I followed it up with the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Spray as a toner. I went with a gentle approach because I was worried about the serum's potency and possible skin irritation.
When it came time to testing the serum, I found the texture pleasant. It was light, smooth, and viscous-y. It had a tendency to dry quickly.
Then, came the tricky part — applying the serum and dealing with the psychological factor that followed, like is it going to hurt?
If the terrifying imagery of spicules has clued you in, along with the fact that it's marketed as "liquid microneedling," I had to wonder if it would sting and how bad it would be!
So — it does actually feel like something is prickling your skin! But it's perfectly withstandable. I would compare the sensation to rubbing a steel scrub across your face, but less intense. I definitely approached it tentatively at first, but then quickly got used to it. Truly, I wouldn't say it hurts.
After the serum, I needed moisture! (I have very dry skin.) While in the midst of purchasing the serum, the Collagen Jelly Cream popped up as a recommendation. I had also seen it floating around TikTok, and since it was best recommended to pair with the serum, I decided to make it a part of my testing routine.
The texture for the jelly cream is actually very jelly-like. It's not thick like vaseline, but similar to the consistency of aloe vera gel.
Unlike the serum, which dried quickly, the jelly cream was the opposite. It kind of just sat on my face for hours. If you've slugged before, then it might feel familiar, but it took me by surprise. It would stick to my hair, and when I stared down at my pillow, I couldn't help but grimace. It was kind of inconvenient as part of a nighttime skincare routine.
But I chose to believe in the process. I moved up my skincare routine to an earlier schedule on the days I was going to use the products.
What I did love was the results the next morning. The jelly cream had dried by then, and my skin had this luminosity to it. Like, there was this sheen.
So, my honest thoughts: I'm conflicted!
Do you think you'll be giving it a try? Any K-beauty trends on your mind? Share it in the comments!