Acne scarring
SkinPen has clinical evidence for improving the appearance of facial acne scars. The type and severity of scarring affect the treatment plan and likely outcome.
SkinPen
Microneedling.
A precise approach to collagen induction and skin renewal. SkinPen creates controlled microscopic channels in the skin, encouraging the natural repair process to improve the appearance of selected skin concerns over time.
ENQUIRE ABOUT A CONSULTATIONHow does SkinPen work?
SkinPen is a professional medical microneedling device. Its sterile, single use needle cartridge creates controlled microscopic punctures in the skin. As the skin repairs, the natural remodelling response supports collagen production and can gradually improve skin texture and the appearance of scarring. This is a progressive process rather than an instant transformation.
Unlike radio frequency microneedling, standard SkinPen microneedling does not use heat or radio frequency energy. The technique and depth are selected following assessment.
What can SkinPen help with?
Fine lines and texture
May improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture and enlarged looking pores through gradual skin remodelling.
Uneven skin tone
Can be considered for selected pigmentation concerns after careful assessment. Some pigmentation conditions may worsen with skin injury, so suitability is essential.
Scars and stretch marks
SkinPen UK also lists cosmetic improvement of surgical scars and stretch marks among its intended aesthetic uses. Outcomes depend on scar type, age and individual healing.
What happens during treatment?
01 · Consultation
We review your medical and skin history, assess your concerns and discuss whether SkinPen is appropriate.
02 · Preparation
Your skin is cleansed and prepared. A suitable topical numbing product may be used for comfort.
03 · Precision microneedling
SkinPen is passed across the selected area using a sterile single use cartridge and the appropriate manufacturer recommended glide product.
04 · Recovery and guidance
You receive specific aftercare instructions and a personalised plan for follow up appointments.
How many sessions will I need?
A course is commonly recommended, especially for acne scarring and more established concerns. Many SkinPen protocols use treatments spaced approximately four weeks apart. The number of sessions is individual and may vary with your skin condition, goals and response. Some clients choose ongoing maintenance following their initial course.
Collagen remodelling takes time. Early changes in skin appearance may be noticed sooner, but more meaningful improvements generally develop gradually over the following weeks and months. Results vary and cannot be guaranteed.
Polynucleotides & exosomes.
For clients looking for a more comprehensive regenerative skin plan, we also offer polynucleotide treatments and selected exosome based skincare options. These may be discussed as additional or separately scheduled treatments depending on your skin goals, suitability and the specific product protocols.
These are optional enhancements, not part of standard SkinPen treatment. Combining products with microneedling, particularly application to freshly treated skin, requires individual product and device compatibility assessment. We do not assume every regenerative product is suitable for use during microneedling.
ASK ABOUT REGENERATIVE OPTIONSWhat should you expect afterwards?
It is normal to experience temporary redness, warmth, tightness, dryness or mild sensitivity, often similar to sunburn. These effects commonly settle over one to three days, although recovery varies by person and treatment intensity.
First 24 hours
Follow your supplied SkinPen aftercare. Avoid makeup and other skincare products, including cleanser, during the first 24 hours unless your specific approved instructions say otherwise. Cool water may be used as advised.
Sun protection
Avoid direct sun exposure on treatment day. Sunscreen can generally be resumed after 24 hours under the SkinPen guidance, with sun exposure minimised for at least 72 hours.
Exercise and active skincare
Avoid sweaty exercise for around 72 hours. Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids and other active skincare for approximately one week or as directed.
If redness becomes increasingly painful or hot, or you develop pus, significant swelling or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical advice promptly. You will receive written aftercare appropriate to your treatment.
Is SkinPen suitable for everyone?
Not always. Treatment should not proceed over open wounds, irritated skin or active skin cancer in the treatment area. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, current isotretinoin use, certain bleeding disorders and relevant allergies are among manufacturer listed contraindications. Active acne requires individual assessment. Emerging studies are exploring microneedling for acne, but SkinPen has not been evaluated for active acne in its manufacturer guidance, which advises avoiding active breakouts and open lesions. Active infections, cold sores, certain inflammatory skin conditions, immunosuppressive treatment, poor wound healing and a tendency to form keloid scars also require careful review.
Your consultation includes a medical history and suitability assessment. If microneedling is not right for your skin at that time, we can discuss alternatives or recommend medical assessment.
Your questions, answered.
Does SkinPen hurt?
A topical numbing cream may be used. Most people describe pressure, vibration or a scratching sensation, but sensitivity varies by area and individual.
How long does an appointment take?
Allow approximately 45 to 60 minutes at Royal Aesthetics, depending on the treatment area and preparation required.
Can I have SkinPen if I have active acne?
Not necessarily. Emerging research is investigating microneedling for active acne, but SkinPen manufacturer guidance identifies active acne as a precaution and advises avoiding active breakouts or open lesions. We assess your skin individually and may recommend treating active inflammation first or considering other options.
Is SkinPen suitable for darker skin tones?
SkinPen has clinical evidence for treating facial acne scars across a broad range of skin tones. An individual assessment is still important, especially if you are prone to post inflammatory pigmentation.
Can I combine SkinPen with polynucleotides or exosomes?
We can discuss regenerative treatment options, but the products, timing and compatibility must be assessed individually. They are not automatically applied into open microneedling channels.
Is SkinPen the same as RF microneedling?
No. SkinPen uses controlled mechanical microneedling without radio frequency heat. Dermaforce RF microneedling combines needling with radio frequency energy. The most suitable approach depends on your skin concerns.
Ready to invest in your skin?
Discover whether SkinPen microneedling is right for you at Royal Aesthetics in Crowborough, East Sussex.
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