This page is supervised and written by specialist physicians at IC Clinic.
Dermapen Microneedling Treatment: A Complete Guide
Many people deal with skin concerns such as acne scars or the appearance of fine lines. Dermapen Microneedling is a treatment that creates microscopic channels in the skin using ultra-fine needles, stimulating the skin’s natural regenerative capacity to promote cell turnover.
As the skin renews itself, it becomes fresher than before, supporting a more youthful-looking complexion. Furthermore, collagen is produced during the skin renewal process, improving metabolism, which may help reduce the appearance of acne scars and fine lines.
By reading this page in full, you will gain a thorough understanding of how Dermapen Microneedling works, along with its potential benefits and points to be aware of. If you have skin concerns, we encourage you to read on to the end.
At our clinic, we propose treatment plans tailored to each individual patient and focus on delivering results.
We take the time to carefully listen to your concerns and symptoms, so please use the button below to book a consultation.
What Is Dermapen Microneedling? An Anti-Aging Treatment Using a Pen-Shaped Device
Dermapen Microneedling is an anti-aging treatment that uses a pen-shaped device to create tiny microchannels in the skin. Some mild discomfort may be experienced; however, at our clinic, numbing cream is available for patients who are sensitive to pain.
Treatment time varies depending on the area being treated, but a single session typically takes approximately 20 minutes. Performing around 5 sessions at intervals of 2 to 4 weeks is generally recommended for results to be expected.
How Does Dermapen 4 Work? Boosting the Skin’s Recovery with Ultra-Fine Needles
Dermapen 4 works through the following process:
- Ultra-fine needles on the pen-shaped device create microchannels in the skin
- Fibroblasts are activated to repair the skin, stimulating collagen production
- As the skin regenerates, overall skin quality improves
Additionally, allowing growth factor serums and other active agents to penetrate through the microchannels may further enhance the treatment’s effects. The specific agents used vary depending on your skin condition, so please consult with your physician if you are considering any optional add-ons.
4 Potential Effects of Dermapen Microneedling — Recommended for Overall Skin Improvement
The following four effects may be expected from Dermapen Microneedling treatment:
- Improvement in wrinkles, pigmentation (dark spots and dullness), and loss of firmness
- Acne prevention and improvement of acne scars (crater-type scarring)
- Tightening of enlarged pores and overall skin quality improvement
- Skin lifting effect
Let’s look at each of these effects in detail.
① Improvement in Wrinkles, Pigmentation (Dark Spots and Dullness), and Loss of Firmness
Wrinkles, pigmentation (dark spots and dullness), and loss of skin firmness are associated with imbalances in the levels of collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin produced by fibroblasts in the dermis. These components play an important role in maintaining skin moisture and structural integrity.
Dermapen Microneedling stimulates the dermis and activates fibroblasts, supporting the production of collagen and other components. This may help improve the appearance of wrinkles, pigmentation, and reduced skin firmness.
② Acne Prevention and Improvement of Acne Scars (Crater Scarring)
In addition to stimulating the skin’s regenerative capacity, Dermapen Microneedling may help calm excessive inflammation and normalize sebum production. Excess sebum production is one cause of acne, while inflammation is a contributing factor in the formation of acne scars (crater scarring).
Because Dermapen Microneedling may address both of these factors, it can be considered for acne prevention and improvement of acne scars (crater scarring). However, in cases of severe acne, treatment may potentially worsen the condition, so please consult with a physician before proceeding.
③ Tightening of Enlarged Pores on the Nose and Cheeks, and Skin Quality Improvement
One of the potential benefits of Dermapen Microneedling is tightening of enlarged pores on the nose and cheeks, along with overall skin quality improvement. This is because the treatment helps normalize sebum production and renews the skin, making it easier for clogged pores and debris to be cleared away. Combining the treatment with a collagen peel may further enhance these effects.
④ Skin Lifting Effect
Dermapen Microneedling treatment may also contribute to a skin lifting effect. Active ingredients penetrate through the microchannels created in the skin, supporting the production of collagen and other components. As a treatment that works with the skin’s natural recovery ability, repeated sessions may lead to enhanced outcomes.
When Can Results Be Expected? How Often Should Treatments Be Done?
Dermapen Microneedling is a treatment where results build up over multiple sessions. Results may vary among individuals, but an average of around 5 sessions is generally needed before noticeable improvement may be observed. However, a gap of 2 to 4 weeks between sessions is required, so please plan accordingly. It can be helpful to establish a routine of approximately one session per month. It is important to understand that Dermapen Microneedling is a treatment that takes time to show results.
Who Is Dermapen Microneedling Recommended For?
Dermapen Microneedling treatment may be suitable for those with the following concerns:
- Wishing to improve uneven skin texture caused by acne scars or crater-type scarring
- Concerned about enlarged pores
- Noticing reduced skin firmness and elasticity
- Concerned about skin sagging
- Experiencing skin dullness
- Concerned about fine lines, and more
Dermapen Microneedling allows the needle depth to be adjusted between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm.
A deeper setting does not necessarily mean better results; treatment is performed at a safe and appropriate depth suited to each patient’s skin type and condition.
Treatment Process and Steps for Dermapen Microneedling
A Dermapen Microneedling treatment session follows these steps:
- Consultation and examination by a physician
- Anesthesia (for those who require it)
- Dermapen Microneedling procedure
- Aftercare
Each step is explained in detail below. The aftercare section also includes important post-treatment precautions, so please read it carefully.
① Consultation and Examination by a Physician
Dermapen Microneedling treatment begins with a consultation with a physician. During this consultation, the condition of your skin will be assessed and the areas to be treated will be determined. Please feel free to ask any questions or raise any concerns at this stage.
Please note that treatment may not be possible for patients with metal allergies, keloid dermatitis, or warts, so please be sure to inform us.
② Anesthesia (Not Required for Everyone)
Dermapen Microneedling uses ultra-fine needles to create microchannels in the skin. While discomfort is generally minimal, individual sensitivity varies. If you have any concerns, please let our physician know. We can apply a numbing cream to help manage any discomfort.
③ Dermapen Microneedling Procedure
The Dermapen device, equipped with 16 needles each 0.20 mm in diameter, creates up to 1,920 microchannels per second. The procedure time varies depending on the treatment area, but typically takes approximately 20 minutes. The exact duration may vary based on your skin condition and the area being treated.
Please remove any makeup before receiving treatment on the face.
Combining the treatment with a collagen peel, which works to stimulate collagen production within the deeper layers of the skin, may further enhance results. For improved skin quality outcomes, we encourage you to discuss this option with your physician.
④ Aftercare
Following the procedure, our clinic will apply a cooling gauze to soothe the skin and an oil to prevent dryness as part of your in-clinic aftercare.
Once you return home, please limit contact with the treated area to gentle cleansing only. Please also allow at least 6 hours after the procedure before applying any moisturizer.
In general, regular face washing is possible from the following day, and makeup can be applied from the day after that.
Dermapen Microneedling Treatment Fees at IC Clinic
Treatment fees at our clinic vary depending on the area treated and the number of sessions. For those who are curious about what the treatment feels like, a first-session trial at a reduced rate compared to the standard price is also available.
For full pricing details, please see the Acne & Acne Scars fee schedule.
3 Key Features of Dermapen Microneedling
Dermapen Microneedling has the following three notable features:
- Relatively short downtime
- Makeup can be applied as soon as the following day
- Ultra-fine needles leave minimal visible marks
Here we explain the key features to be aware of when considering Dermapen Microneedling treatment. Please use this information to help you decide whether the treatment is right for you.
① Relatively Short Downtime
Results may vary among individuals, but any swelling or discomfort following treatment is typically minimal and short-lived. Redness or minor bleeding, if present, generally subsides within approximately 2 days. This is due to the extremely fine needle diameter of 0.2 mm used in the Dermapen device. Microchannels of this size typically close within around 10 hours.
However, please be aware that bruising may occasionally occur.
② Makeup Can Be Applied the Following Day
As downtime with Dermapen Microneedling is generally minimal, makeup can typically be applied from the day after treatment. Face washing is possible on the day of treatment, but please allow at least 6 hours after the procedure before doing so, as the active agents applied to the skin need time to be absorbed.
③ Ultra-Fine Needles Leave Minimal Visible Marks
Dermapen uses ultra-fine needles with a diameter of 0.20 mm, and the microchannels typically close within a few hours, meaning visible scarring is generally not a concern. However, please note that in some cases, depending on individual skin characteristics, marks may remain.
Important Precautions for Dermapen Microneedling: 5 Risks to Be Aware Of
There are also the following points to be aware of with Dermapen Microneedling:
- Side effects (downtime) may occur
- Risk of worsening melasma
- Results are not immediate
- Patients with metal allergies, keloids, warts, or scleroderma may not be eligible for treatment
- Skincare and moisturizing aftercare cannot be performed for 6 hours following treatment
Below, we outline the key precautions to keep in mind when considering Dermapen Microneedling. In some cases, treatment may not be possible, so please make sure you are fully informed.
① Side Effects Such as Redness and Peeling May Occur
As the treatment involves creating microchannels in the skin, bruising, redness, and swelling may occur. The deeper the needle penetration, the greater the stimulation to the skin, which may increase the likelihood of these reactions.
In addition, skin peeling — particularly around the mouth and eyes — may occur for several days to approximately one week after treatment. You may also notice that makeup does not apply as smoothly as usual, or that toners cause a slight stinging sensation, so please take care.
② Risk of Worsening Melasma
Melasma refers to symmetrical pigmentation that appears on the cheekbones, forehead, and around the mouth. It is more common in women and is primarily associated with hormonal imbalances. Inflammation in areas affected by melasma may trigger increased pigmentation.
As Dermapen Microneedling involves inducing minor controlled inflammation in the skin, applying it to areas with melasma may potentially worsen the condition.
③ Results Are Not Immediate (Treatment at Intervals of 2 to 4 Weeks Is Required)
The effects of Dermapen Microneedling do not appear immediately. On average, around 5 sessions are generally needed before noticeable improvement may be observed. Since a gap of 2 to 4 weeks is required between sessions, it is generally advisable to continue treatment for approximately six months.
④ Patients with Metal Allergies or Skin Conditions May Not Be Eligible for Treatment
Patients with metal allergies or certain skin conditions are not eligible for Dermapen Microneedling treatment. For those with metal allergies, the needles are made of stainless steel, which may trigger an allergic reaction.
For patients with skin conditions, the stimulation of creating microchannels in the skin may risk worsening their condition, and treatment will therefore not be performed.
⑤ Skincare and Moisturizing Cannot Be Applied for 6 Hours After Treatment
Please avoid using sunscreen and moisturizers for 6 hours following Dermapen Microneedling treatment. This allows sufficient time for the active agents applied during treatment to be absorbed into the skin. As sun exposure after treatment may lead to pigmentation, please take care to protect your skin from direct sunlight. Bathing on the day of treatment is not recommended; please use a shower instead.
For Comprehensive Skin Improvement, Visit IC Clinic
Dermapen Microneedling is a treatment that stimulates the skin’s natural recovery ability by creating microchannels with ultra-fine needles. It may help address concerns such as dark spots, acne scars, and skin sagging. Additionally, it may contribute to improvements in enlarged pores and overall skin quality.
However, some discomfort may be felt during treatment, so please be aware of this. It is also important to protect your skin from excessive sun exposure after the procedure.
At our clinic, we offer treatments suited to each patient’s individual skin type, with a focus on achieving meaningful results. If you have any skin concerns, please do not hesitate to consult with us.
At our clinic, we propose treatment plans tailored to each individual patient and focus on delivering results.
We take the time to carefully listen to your concerns and symptoms, so please use the button below to book a consultation.
