3M launches new Microchannel Skin System

3M has announced the launch of a new tool for use in the pre-treatment of patients' skin prior to dermatological applications and procedures.

The new 3M Microchannel Skin System is a patch with hundreds of microneedles that creates microchannels in the outermost layer of the skin with minimal discomfort.

It consists of a snap-on handle and a sterile single-patient use patch, which can be applied simply, quickly and in a highly economical manner, with users disposing of the patch after use.

The Microchannel Skin System is to be distributed by Henry Schein and will be made available exclusively to dermatologists, although patient packs can be sold for home by clinicians at their own discretion.

A company statement said: "The microneedle technology in the 3M Microchannel Skin System is based on 3M's expertise in microreplication, which the company has applied in a diverse range of products."

In July 2011, the company reported its financial results for the second quarter of the year, during which it experienced a record-breaking sales performance.