Looking after your microneedling pen keeps every session hygienic and helps the pen last. It only takes a minute or two before and after each session. Here's how to clean it, store it, handle cartridges safely and keep the battery in good shape.
The short answer: wipe the outside of the pen and the cartridge connector with a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe before and after every session, never submerge it, store it in its case somewhere clean and dry, use a new sterile cartridge every time, and put used cartridges straight into a sharps container.
Cleaning your pen
Before each session
- Wash your hands.
- Wipe the outside of the pen with a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe.
- Gently wipe around the cartridge connector.
- Let it dry fully before attaching a cartridge.
After each session
- Switch the pen off and remove the cartridge.
- Put the cartridge straight into a sharps container.
- Wipe the pen and connector with an alcohol wipe, removing any serum.
- Let it dry, then store it in its case.
What not to do
- Never submerge the pen or run it under water.
- Don't spray liquids directly onto it.
- Don't use harsh cleaners or bleach.
- Don't share your pen's cartridges with anyone.
Cartridge safety
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Use a new, sterile cartridge every session | Reuse or try to clean a used cartridge |
| Check the seal is intact and the pack is in date | Use a cartridge with a broken seal or damaged pack |
| Inspect for bent or uneven needles | Keep using one that feels scratchy |
| Store unopened cartridges somewhere cool and dry | Share cartridges, even with family |
Alcohol doesn't make a used cartridge sterile again, and needles dull with use. See cartridge hygiene and safety.
Disposing of used cartridges
Used cartridges contain needles, so treat them as sharps:
- Put each used cartridge straight into a sharps container.
- Never put loose cartridges in household rubbish or recycling.
- Many pharmacies sell sharps bins, and your local council can tell you how to dispose of a full one.
- Keep the container closed and out of reach of children and pets.
Storing your pen
- Keep it in its case, in a clean, dry place.
- Avoid steamy bathrooms if you can, and direct sunlight.
- Keep it out of reach of children.
Looking after the battery
- Charge it fully before your first use.
- Use a suitable USB-C cable and plug.
- Avoid leaving it fully drained for long periods.
- If the battery runs down unusually quickly, see our troubleshooting guide.
When to get in touch
If your pen rattles, grinds, won't run smoothly with a new cartridge or won't charge, stop using it and contact our support team via our contact page. Olapen comes with a 1-Year Warranty. See our guarantee page.
Frequently asked questions
How do I clean my microneedling pen?
Wipe the outside and connector with a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe before and after each session.
Can I wash my pen under the tap?
No. Never submerge it or run it under water.
Can I reuse a cartridge if I clean it?
No. Use a new, sterile cartridge every session.
How do I dispose of used cartridges?
In a sharps container. Ask your local council how to dispose of a full one.
How should I store my pen?
In its case, somewhere clean and dry, out of reach of children.
The bottom line
A quick wipe before and after every session, a fresh sterile cartridge each time, safe disposal and dry storage are all it takes to keep your pen hygienic and working well.
Microneedling and nanoneedling are cosmetic procedures. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition. If you have a skin condition or any concerns, speak to a healthcare professional.