Considering SkinPen® microneedling? Below are answers to some of the most common questions about treatment, downtime, results, and what to expect before and after your appointment at Rammos Plastic Surgery & MedSpa.
How Many SkinPen Treatments Will I Need?
The number of treatments recommended depends on your skin concerns and individual goals.
Some patients may notice improvement after a single treatment, while a series of treatments is often recommended, particularly when addressing concerns such as acne scarring or more significant texture irregularities.
Your provider will create a treatment plan based on your skin and desired results.
How Far Apart Are SkinPen Treatments?
We typically recommend scheduling SkinPen treatments 4–6 weeks apart. This allows the skin time to heal and begin the natural collagen-remodeling process between treatments.
Your provider will recommend the appropriate number of treatments based on your skin concerns and individual goals.
Does SkinPen Hurt?
A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment to help make the procedure more comfortable.
During treatment, you may feel light pressure, vibration, or a scratching sensation as the SkinPen device passes over the skin. Sensitivity can vary depending on the treatment area and depth used.
What Is the Downtime After SkinPen?
Following treatment, the skin commonly appears pink or red and may feel warm, tight, or sensitive, similar to a mild-to-moderate sunburn.
Some patients may experience mild swelling, dryness, or flaking as the skin heals. The intensity and duration of these effects vary from patient to patient.
When Will I See Results From SkinPen?
SkinPen results develop gradually because the treatment works by stimulating your body’s natural healing and collagen-remodeling processes.
You may notice your skin looking and feeling refreshed as the initial healing resolves, with continued improvement in texture and overall skin quality over the following weeks and months.
Can I Wear Makeup After SkinPen?
Your skin should be given time to recover immediately following treatment. You should avoid applying makeup until advised that it is appropriate to do so by your provider.
We will give you specific post-treatment instructions following your appointment.
What Should I Do After SkinPen?
Following treatment, it is important to keep your skincare routine gentle while the skin heals.
- Follow the skincare instructions provided by your provider.
- Avoid picking, scratching, or aggressively exfoliating the skin.
- Avoid retinoids, acids, scrubs, and other irritating products until cleared to resume them.
- Avoid excessive heat and strenuous exercise immediately following treatment as directed.
- Minimize sun exposure.
- Use sun protection as directed once appropriate following treatment.
Can SkinPen Help With Acne Scars?
Yes. Acne scarring is one of the primary concerns SkinPen is used to treat.
By creating controlled micro-injuries within the skin, SkinPen stimulates collagen remodeling that can gradually improve the appearance and texture of certain acne scars.
The number of treatments needed depends on the type and severity of scarring and your individual skin.
Does SkinPen Help With Pores?
SkinPen may help improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin, which can make enlarged pores appear less noticeable.
It’s better to think of SkinPen as improving the skin surrounding the pores rather than permanently “closing” or eliminating pores.
What Is the Difference Between SkinPen and Morpheus8?
Both treatments use microneedling, but Morpheus8 adds radiofrequency energy.
SkinPen is traditional microneedling and is commonly used for concerns such as acne scars, texture, fine lines, and overall skin quality.
Morpheus8 combines microneedling with RF energy and can deliver treatment at greater depths, making it useful when skin laxity and deeper tissue remodeling are also concerns.
Your provider can help determine which treatment is best suited to your skin and goals.
Who Is a Good Candidate for SkinPen?
SkinPen may be a good option for patients looking to improve acne scars, uneven texture, fine lines, enlarged pores, or overall skin quality without a more aggressive resurfacing procedure.
Your skin, medical history, current skincare regimen, and treatment goals will be evaluated before treatment to determine whether SkinPen is appropriate for you.
