Acne scars and uneven skin texture are among the most frustrating skin concerns to treat because they exist beneath the skin's surface, in the dermis. Topical products, even medical-grade formulations, can reach this level but rarely at a concentration or depth sufficient to produce meaningful structural change. SkinPen microneedling works differently, stimulating the skin's own collagen production from within to smooth, refine, and renew. SkinPen is the first FDA-cleared microneedling device and remains one of the most trusted platforms in the category for its established clinical history and precision.

What to Expect During Your Treatment

At Element Dermatology, all SkinPen treatments are performed under the direct oversight of Dr. Barry LaBine, a board-certified dermatologist. Here's what you can expect from your appointment:

  • Your Consultation: We assess your specific skin concerns, review your health history, and recommend the right treatment depth and any complementary additions like PRF or Exosomes. Because SkinPen is handheld, we can adjust the depth across different areas of the face in a single session, customizing the treatment to what each zone actually needs. This is an advantage over many fixed microneedling devices that apply the same depth uniformly across the entire treatment area.
  • The Treatment: A topical numbing cream is applied 30 to 45 minutes before we begin. The SkinPen is then moved systematically across the treatment area, creating micro-channels at a precisely controlled depth. Sessions take 30 to 60 minutes. If your plan includes PRF or Exosomes, these are applied immediately after while the micro-channels are still open for maximum absorption.
  • Results and Follow-Up: Expect redness and mild sensitivity for 24 to 72 hours, similar to a mild sunburn. Results develop gradually over the following weeks as new collagen forms, with continued improvement for up to six months after a full series. Most patients complete three to six treatments spaced four to six weeks apart.

What makes microneedling different is that your skin does every bit of the work. We just create the conditions for it to happen.

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Frequently Asked Questions About SkinPen Microneedling

How does microneedling work?

Microneedling creates thousands of tiny, controlled micro-injuries in the skin using very fine needles. These micro-channels trigger the skin's natural wound-healing response, stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin. Over the following weeks, skin becomes smoother, firmer, and more even as the new tissue forms. The results are gradual and natural-looking because they come from your own skin's repair process rather than an external substance being added.

What can SkinPen treat?

SkinPen is effective for acne scarring, uneven skin texture, enlarged pores, fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, and general skin dullness or loss of radiance. It works on the face, neck, and body. The depth of treatment is adjusted based on the specific concern and area, which is one of the advantages of SkinPen's handheld design over fixed laser devices.

How many treatments will I need?

Most patients benefit from a series of three to six treatments spaced four to six weeks apart. The number depends on the severity of the concerns being addressed; for example, general texture improvement typically requires fewer sessions than significant acne scarring. Results develop and continue to improve for up to six months after completing a full series as new collagen continues to form. We’ll give you a specific recommendation during your consultation.

Is SkinPen safe for all skin tones?

Yes. SkinPen is safe for all skin tones, including darker skin tones that may be at higher risk of pigmentation issues with certain laser treatments. Because microneedling works mechanically rather than through heat or light energy, it carries a lower risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation than many laser options. For patients with deeper skin tones, we often recommend a pretreatment course of hydroquinone to further reduce that risk and set the treatment up for the best possible outcome.

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