I microneedled the eczema on my hands. Heres why it works and what I use to support recovery

I’ve suffered from eczema for the past 10 years, so I decided to take matters into my own hands — literally.I’ve tested dozens of hand creams and dermatologist lotions, worn cotton gloves to sleep and spent hundreds of dollars on doctor’s appointments to try to alleviate the issue.Nothing worked … until recently.I started microneedling my hands with PRP in a desperate attempt to boost hydration, reduce some of the redness and finally look normal.According to Eric Nietzel, RN, founder of I Wanna Be Pretty, microneedling is usually a no-go for eczema, as you’re “introducing controlled trauma to skin that’s already inflamed and barrier-compromised.”“This is an emerging, adjunctive approach for select patients, not a standard eczema treatment.

Proper screening, including for any active skin infection, and expert technique are essential,” he clarified.However, microneedling performed at a low setting and paired with PRP on the hands is very promising.“PRP works by releasing growth factors from the patient’s own platelets, triggering a wound-healing cascade that helps the tissue regenerate rather than just inflame,” Nietzel explained.“Instead of only creating micro-injury, you’re delivering the growth factors and signaling proteins the body needs to repair.”PRP, which stands for “platelet-rich plasma,” involves extracting a small amount of blood, then spinning it in a centrifuge to separate red and white blood cells from plasma and platelets, which contain your growth factors.

Then, the “liquid gold” solution left over is rubbed directly onto the skin after microneedling to ensure deep absorption.My hands have always been my biggest insecurity.Since I was a teenager, I’ve always worried about what’s going to happen when I get engaged and want to show off my ring to friends and family.

Now, thanks to a combination of medical intervention and strict post-procedure protocol, I feel like I’ll have nothing to hide.Two out of f...