Procell and Peptides: Your Skin’s BFF Combination

From “vampire facials” to at-home rollers, microneedling keeps popping up in everyone’s social media feeds. Even though needling has been around for decades, many skinthusiasts are still reluctant to give it a try. If you are one of those people, consider microchanneling as a stepping stone. Learn more about this low-risk, high-reward treatment and be a true glow-getter! 

What is ProCell? 

ProCell is a therapeutic skincare company focused on its microchanneling technology. Microchanneling is another version of microneedling, known as collagen induction therapy. Instead of dragging or rolling, a stamping method is used to create uniform microchannels in the skin. As these tiny channels heal, it signals the skin to produce collagen, which can improve the appearance of skin and scarring. It costs less, requires less downtime, and doesn't require numbing, so it's a bit more approachable than microneedling. It is incorporated into a facial treatment, so it can even be paired with other skin treatment modalities and extractions.

The “how deep do we need to go” debate 

Are you looking to help improve acne scars or aging skin? Choosing the right procedure can be confusing, especially for non-skin professionals. There are many types of advanced modalities. One way to differentiate between them is by knowing the terms ablative and non-ablative.  

Ablate comes from the Latin word ablatus, which means to carry away or remove. Ablative treatments aim to intentionally destroy skin tissue in an effort to create new, healthy skin tissue. Fractional lasers and phenol peels are common ablative treatments. Ablative treatments come with downtime and a higher risk of long-term, even permanent, damage as well as infection and burns. They need to be done with an abundance of caution, thorough research, and adherence to protocols. TCA CROSS is an example of an ablative treatment with a lower risk, as the treatment area is confined to the scar.

Non-ablative treatments include IPL/BBL, microneedling, microchanneling, microdermabrasion, and mid-depth chemical peels, among many others. These non-ablative techniques also offer impressive results, but with fewer risks and less downtime.

In our experience as skin professionals, we find that people looking for quick acne scarring or "anti-aging" results often assume it's best to opt for the more expensive, higher-risk ablative treatments early in their skin care journey, since "they pack a big punch." In our opinion, that is backward logic and can cause serious problems without sufficient caution. Remember, just because you can do something doesn't mean you should. We suggest that you work to build your skin health with your regimen and non-ablative treatments first – this makes ProCell among our favorite stepping stones for long-term skin results. Some clients may eventually graduate to more ablative options, but it isn't always necessary.

What can you do to enhance and extend your results?  

Your at-home regimen is just as important as the treatment itself – the two truly work together. A thorough regimen typically includes appropriate exfoliation, which resurfaces your skin and allows products to penetrate in ways they haven't before.

The best follow-up for microchanneling? Peptides. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as building blocks for vital skin proteins like collagen and elastin, helping to firm, hydrate, and strengthen the skin barrier. In the case of neuropeptides, they can even prevent wrinkles from forming in the first place.

Applying peptides to freshly channeled skin allows them to be absorbed deeply and helps your skin rebound quickly. The ability to heal efficiently is a sign your skin is strong – and you can strengthen it further by feeding it peptides, growth factors, and stem cell-derived ingredients. While there are differences between these formulations, they all work together to absorb into the skin and support collagen production. Using collagen-building ingredients topically after collagen induction therapy is what we call a slam dunk – and we don't throw sports references around lightly.

Adding ProCell to your regular facial treatment is an easy, low-pain, and relatively affordable ($120 add-on) way to further improve your skin results. Some of you are always wondering, "What else can I do to boost results?" Well, this is it!