SkinPen - in short
| What it treats | Fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, skin texture and quality |
|---|---|
| Method | Medical microneedling device with 14 microneedles |
| Anaesthesia | Anaesthetic cream |
| Duration of treatment | Under 30 minutes for the face |
| Number of treatments | The number of sessions and the intervals between them are determined individually after a consultation |
| Result | Gradual improvement as collagen is remodelled; regeneration continues for months |
| Recovery | Individual; possible redness and sensitivity for a few days, with agreed aftercare |
What is SkinPen?
SkinPen microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries and triggers the skin's natural healing response. The expected changes develop gradually. A facial treatment takes less than 30 minutes, while additional time should be allowed for the consultation, preparation and local anaesthetic.
Before choosing the procedure, the type of scars, skin condition and previous treatments are assessed. For sensitive skin, the assessment and recovery plan are particularly important.
SkinPen treatment
SkinPen device and purpose
SkinPen is a medical microneedling device. Its intended use and operation are assessed based on the specific model, the manufacturer's instructions and the patient's skin condition.
The regulatory assessment of the device applies to specific indications and areas; it does not mean that every treatment or combination is without risk. The intended use, limitations and possible reactions are described in more detail in the FDA guidance on microneedling devices.
Who is SkinPen intended for?
SkinPen is considered for improving the appearance of acne scars and certain skin texture irregularities, subject to an individual assessment.
Acne scars and active acne are not the same thing. Microneedling should not be presented as a procedure for calming active inflammatory acne. First, the active disease needs to be assessed and brought under control, followed by a plan for the residual scars.
Pigmentation and melasma require a specific plan; the choice of procedure depends on the diagnosis, skin type and the risk of pigment changes.
Treatment results
Improvement in scar appearance and skin texture develops gradually. The extent of change depends on the type and depth of the scars, the initial condition of the skin, the number of treatments and individual response.
The result is not guaranteed and it is not realistic to expect every scar to disappear completely. The assessment of the effect should be based on comparable photographs and a follow-up examination at the agreed time, separating temporary swelling from later changes.
Read more about why different scars may require different approaches in our article about Combining acne scar treatments.
How does it work?
SkinPen uses microneedles to create controlled micro-injuries that trigger the skin's healing and remodelling processes. The aim is to gradually improve the appearance of specific scars and skin texture.
The procedure is not without risk: redness, swelling, tenderness, pinpoint bleeding and other reactions may occur. The treatment area, depth and plan are determined by a specialist after an examination, according to the purpose of the specific device.
For more information on choosing other procedures, see the overview of facial treatments.
SkinPen price?
You can find the price of the SkinPen treatment in our Price list.
Have a question?
Answers to frequently asked questions
What does the treatment involve?
The SkinPen treatment is quick and simple. Before starting, we apply an anaesthetic cream to keep discomfort to a minimum. During the procedure, you may feel a slight stinging or pressure, depending on the depth of the treatment and the issue we are addressing. After the procedure, there is redness similar to mild sunburn, which is temporary and expected.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of sessions and the intervals between them are determined individually after an examination. The plan depends on the issue being treated and the skin's reaction, with the need for continuation being assessed at follow-up appointments. There is no set number of treatments for all patients.
Is SkinPen safe for the skin?
Candidate assessment, proper technique and a single-use tip are important for reducing risk. However, adverse reactions are possible: redness, sensitivity, swelling or pinpoint bleeding, and less commonly infection or pigment change. Risks should be considered before deciding on treatment.
How do we assess whether SkinPen is the right choice?
The choice depends on the type and depth of the scars, the condition of the skin and the goal of the treatment. An examination assesses whether microneedling is sufficient or if another method or a combined plan should be considered.
Recovery
Redness, tightness and sensitivity can last for several days. Returning to normal activities depends on the skin's reaction and the type of activity; not everyone is ready to return the very next day.
Before leaving, you receive a care and sun protection plan. We will agree with you when you can use make-up, retinoids, acids and peels, and when you can return to exercise, the sauna and the swimming pool. Do not introduce any additional active products without consulting us first.
Enhanced tone and better skin quality
The aim is the gradual improvement of skin texture and appearance. The degree of change is individual. During follow-ups, the result is compared with the initial state, with realistic expectations regarding what can be achieved with the treatment.
SkinPen and Dermapen – what is the difference?
SkinPen and Dermapen both work on the principle of microneedling. Differences should be viewed according to the specific device model, needle cartridge, depth setting and protocol.
It cannot be claimed in advance that one always provides a faster recovery or that the other is always more aggressive. The choice depends on the type of scars, skin condition, goal and the expert's assessment.
Contraindications
The treatment is not performed in cases of active infections, open wounds, severe skin inflammation, in individuals with clotting disorders, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, or in the case of recent isotretinoin therapy.
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Author: Dr Ivica Jeremić
PhD in Medical Sciences (Molecular Medicine and Immunology), rheumatology subspecialist, dermatology resident.
