Microneedling (SkinPen)
What is Skin Pen?
SkinPen is a microneedling medical device used for the treatment of surgical scars and acne scars through collagen induction therapy (CIT).
The treatment is minimally invasive, involving the movement of a pen-like device with an attached sterile disposable cartridge tip containing small needles, over the skin’s surface.
The microneedles puncture the skin and create tiny micro injuries that are not visible to the naked eye. These tiny punctures stimulate tissue regeneration through a process called collagen induction therapy (CIT), which improves the appearance of the skin.
What should I expect during the procedure?
Your dermatologist will ask questions regarding your medical history, including any medications or nutritional supplements that you may be taking. This is to determine if the SkinPen treatment is suitable for you.
Photographs of your skin will be taken prior to the treatment, and discussion on the realistic treatment outcomes and an explanation of the treatment process.
You will be asked to come in one hour prior appointment time, in order to apply a topical anaesthetic cream to ease the treatment discomfort. Your skin will be cleansed following the preparation of a disinfecting agent, and SkinFuse Lift HG (a hydrogel product) is applied to the skin surface.
Your dermatologist will attach the sterile single use needle cartridge to the SkinPen, and is then moved across the surface of the skin to perform the treatment. Some patients may experience a small amount of discomfort during the treatment alongside a small amount of pinpoint bleeding.
After the treatment, your practitioner will clean the skin and apply a SkinFuse Lift HG to the area to maintain a moist wound healing environment to support skin recovery.
What would I expect after the procedure?
Depending on the individual, some patients may be able to resume normal activities immediately following the procedure. The exception to this is exercise and activities that induce sweating and heat, as they may aggravate the skin post-procedure.
The following outcomes below are what is expected after the treatment, but may vary between patients;
- Low grade redness and swelling for up to four days post treatment.
- Slight discomfort subsiding within 24 hours.
- Bruising.
- Mild crusting and scabbing for 2-3 days post treatment.
- Short term skin dryness, tightness, itching and burning.
- Skin peeling.
- Short term darkening of skin pigmentation followed by lightening.
Are there any side effects to the treatment?
SkinPen microneedling is generally very well tolerated, with side effects being rare. Most side effects will only occur due to not having followed appropriate pre and post treatment skin care instructions as set out by your dermatologist, or not disclosing vital information during the consultation. These side effects may include;
- Skin infection
- Temporary track appearance on the skin
- Bruising
- Allergic granuloma formation
- Systemic hypersensitivity
- Persistent redness
- Acne and milia
- Reactivation of herpes simplex virus (cold sores)
How many treatments would I need and how much does the treatment cost?
Every patient varies with regards to the treatment needs, with most skin concerns requiring more than one procedure to achieve the results. Your dermatologist will create a treatment plan based on your individual needs and will explain this during your consultation.
SkinPen microneedling is a non-claimable procedure through Medicare. At St Leonards Dermatology and Laser, we charge $400 per treatment for full face and an extra cost of the anaesthetic cream.
