The Ultimate Guide to Dermapen Treatment

Key Takeaways

• Dermapen treatment is a non-invasive technique for skin rejuvenation.
• The procedure stimulates collagen production, promoting a youthful complexion.
• It effectively addresses concerns like acne scars and fine lines.
• The handheld device uses fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin.
• Dermapen treatments can lead to smoother, more radiant skin.
• Adjustable needle depths allow for personalised treatment plans.
• Understanding the procedure enhances your overall experience and results.

What Dermapen Treatment Is and How It Works

The Dermapen treatment utilises a Dermapen device for motorised microneedling. This approach involves creating micro-injuries in the skin’s surface to stimulate natural healing processes. 

By inducing these small traumas, you prompt your body to produce collagen, which plays a crucial role in skin repair and overall skin health.

What a Dermapen Device Is (Motorised Microneedling Explained)

The Dermapen device is a tool designed for motorised microneedling. It consists of multiple tiny needles that create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, leading to effective collagen stimulation. 

This process enhances the skin's texture, firmness, and elasticity. Unlike traditional microneedling methods, the Dermapen allows for varied needle depths, catering to individual skin types and concerns. You can expect greater precision, allowing for customised treatment plans.

How Dermapen Stimulates Collagen and Skin Repair

The mechanism behind Dermapen's effectiveness lies in its ability to trigger a natural healing response. When the Dermapen device penetrates the skin, it not only induces collagen production but also activates elastin synthesis, which is vital for maintaining skin elasticity.

As the micro-injuries heal, the skin regenerates, resulting in improved texture and firmness. This enhanced collagen stimulation fosters a youthful appearance and combats various skin issues.

Dermapen vs Traditional Microneedling Rollers

When comparing Dermapen with traditional microneedling rollers, the key differences lie in precision, safety, and overall treatment control. While both aim to stimulate collagen, the technology and outcomes can vary significantly.

Here is a clear comparison:

• Needle control: Dermapen uses adjustable needle depths with precise settings, while traditional rollers have a fixed needle length.
• Treatment precision: Dermapen delivers vertical, controlled needle entry, whereas traditional rollers use an angled rolling motion.
• Skin trauma: Dermapen creates minimal and controlled micro-injuries, while traditional rollers carry a higher risk of uneven trauma.
• Customisation: Dermapen allows depth adjustments for different treatment areas, while traditional rollers offer limited customisation.
• Comfort: Dermapen treatments feel more consistent and predictable, whereas rollers may feel more dragging or scratching on the skin.
• Results: Dermapen promotes more uniform collagen stimulation, while traditional rollers can produce less predictable outcomes.

Dermapen’s controlled vertical penetration reduces unnecessary skin damage and allows more targeted treatment, making it a preferred option for consistent and safer skin rejuvenation.

What Skin Concerns Dermapen Treats Best

Dermapen treatments can address various skin concerns effectively. This procedure utilises micro-needling to promote collagen production, enhancing the skin's overall appearance and texture. Below are specific areas where Dermapen excels in treatment.

Acne Scars, Ice-Pick Scars, and Texture Irregularities

Dermapen treatment helps improve acne scars and uneven skin texture by stimulating the skin’s natural repair process. The controlled micro-injuries trigger collagen production, which gradually fills in depressions caused by scars and refines the skin surface. This process supports smoother and more even-looking skin over time.

In cases of ice-pick scars and other deep textural irregularities, repeated treatments can encourage gradual remodeling of the underlying tissue. As collagen and elastin rebuild, the visible depth and roughness of these scars are reduced, creating a more balanced and refined skin texture.

Fine Lines, Wrinkles, and Skin Laxity

Dermapen can support the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles by encouraging the natural renewal of the dermal structure. The micro-needling process stimulates fibroblast activity, which helps form new collagen fibers that reinforce skin elasticity and firmness. This contributes to a smoother, more resilient surface appearance.

With consistent treatment, areas affected by mild sagging or laxity may regain subtle firmness. Over time, this collagen regeneration helps restore structural integrity, improving both the texture and tone of aging skin without altering its natural characteristics.

Pigmentation, PIH, and Uneven Skin Tone

Dermapen is often applied to help even out skin tone and reduce pigmentation irregularities such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). The micro-needling process supports consistent skin cell turnover, encouraging the gradual fading of discolored areas while maintaining a balanced complexion.

It can also enhance the absorption of topical formulations designed to address pigmentation, improving their overall effectiveness. The outcome is typically a smoother, more uniform tone, with dark spots and surface discoloration becoming less prominent over successive sessions.

Enlarged Pores and Rough Skin Texture

For individuals concerned with enlarged pores, Dermapen helps refine skin appearance by stimulating collagen production around the pore walls. This structural reinforcement minimises their visible size and creates a more even skin surface. The treatment encourages gradual tightening without affecting normal skin function.

As the skin becomes firmer and more uniform, rough patches and textural irregularities tend to soften. Over time, these combined effects contribute to a smoother, healthier-looking complexion with improved clarity and tactile quality.

What Happens During a Dermapen Treatment 

The Dermapen treatment process involves a series of meticulously planned steps to ensure safety and effectiveness. Initially, a thorough consultation and skin assessment are performed, where the practitioner evaluates your specific skin concerns along with your treatment goals. 

Consultation, Skin Assessment, and Treatment Mapping

The Dermapen process begins with a short consultation and skin review. The practitioner checks your medical history, skincare routine, and any concerns such as scars or pigmentation to confirm suitability and decide on the correct needle depth.

A quick visual and tactile assessment follows to pinpoint areas needing focus. From this, the practitioner maps out the treatment zones, ensuring the procedure is customised for safety and effective, targeted results.

Skin Preparation and Numbing Before Treatment

Before microneedling begins, the skin must be properly prepared to ensure both comfort and hygiene. The treatment area is thoroughly cleansed to remove oil, makeup, or residue that could interfere with the procedure. A topical numbing cream is then applied and left to absorb for a short period to desensitise the skin.

This preparation stage minimises discomfort during the session. Although you may still feel a faint prickling or tingling sensation as the needles make contact with the skin, most individuals find the experience tolerable due to the numbing effect.

What You Feel During the Dermapen Session

During the session, sensations can vary depending on the treatment depth and the sensitivity of the area. Some describe it as light pressure or a mild scratching feeling. The adjustable needle depth allows the practitioner to control the intensity across different parts of the face or body.

A typical Dermapen session lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. While deeper treatments may create more noticeable sensations, most people report only minor discomfort, and any warmth or tingling fades soon after the procedure concludes.

Immediate Post-Treatment Skin Response

Following treatment, it is normal for the skin to appear slightly red or flushed, similar to a mild sunburn. This temporary response indicates that the skin’s healing mechanisms have been activated and collagen production is underway. Mild tightness or sensitivity may also be experienced for a few hours.

These effects typically subside within the same day or by the following morning. As the skin recovers, it begins to show early signs of rejuvenation, appearing smoother, more even, and refreshed as healing progresses naturally over the next several days.

Dermapen Depth Settings and Personalisation

Understanding the appropriate needle depth for your microneedling session can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your customised treatment.

Practitioners assess the unique requirements of your skin, ensuring the chosen needle depth aligns with the expected outcome.

How Needle Depth Is Chosen for Your Skin

The needle depth in a Dermapen session is carefully adjusted according to skin type and concern. Thicker areas such as the cheeks or forehead can tolerate slightly deeper penetration to target scars or texture issues, while thinner regions like under the eyes or near the lips require shallower settings for safety.

This individualised approach ensures that each part of the face receives the appropriate level of stimulation. By balancing depth and precision, the treatment promotes collagen renewal effectively while preserving overall skin comfort and integrity.

Face vs Body Treatment Differences

Facial and body microneedling treatments differ mainly in the thickness of the skin and the required penetration depth. While facial areas demand precision and control, body regions often need slightly deeper settings to achieve visible results.

To better understand these variations, here’s a breakdown comparing both treatment types and their specific approaches:

• Skin thickness: Facial treatments are performed on thinner, more delicate skin, while body treatments target thicker and more resilient skin.
• Needle depth: Facial microneedling typically uses shallow to moderate depths of around 0.25 to 1.0 mm, whereas body treatments require deeper penetration of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 mm or more.
• Focus areas: Facial treatments commonly address fine lines, acne scars, and uneven tone, while body treatments focus on stretch marks, deeper scars, and loose skin.
• Sensitivity: Facial areas require lower intensity and shorter sessions due to higher sensitivity, while body areas can tolerate stronger intensity and longer treatment times.
• Recovery time: Facial treatments usually cause mild redness lasting 1 to 2 days, whereas body treatments may involve longer redness or mild tenderness.
• Goal: The goal of facial treatment is smoother texture and refined tone, while body treatment aims for firming, scar reduction, and improved elasticity.

Dermapen with Serums, Growth Factors, or PRP

Combining Dermapen with treatments like topical serums, growth factors, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) enhances results. The microchannels created by the device allow active ingredients to penetrate deeper, improving absorption and supporting better hydration, repair, and skin regeneration.

When used with PRP or growth factors, the treatment leverages the body’s own healing components to boost collagen formation and cellular renewal. This synergy can result in improved texture, tone, and overall skin vitality, providing more comprehensive results than microneedling alone.

Note: Always consult a qualified practitioner before combining Dermapen with serums, PRP, or growth factors to ensure proper assessment, safety, and optimal results.

Dermapen Recovery & Aftercare

After a Dermapen session, mild redness, tightness, or swelling is common and usually fades within one to two days. These short-term effects reflect the skin’s natural healing response. During this period, keeping the skin clean and moisturised helps maintain comfort and support recovery.

Expected Downtime and Redness

After a Dermapen treatment, mild redness and puffiness are expected as part of the healing process. These effects typically fade within a few days as your skin begins to repair itself and generate new collagen. During this time, gentle care helps promote smoother recovery and optimal results.

Below is a simple day-by-day outline to help manage expectations and support post-treatment healing:

• Day 1: Mild redness and swelling may occur. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser to soothe the skin.
• Day 2: Redness should begin to subside. Continue moisturising and avoid applying makeup.
• Day 3: Light peeling might start. Keep your skin hydrated and avoid touching or picking at it.
• Day 4: Peeling becomes more noticeable. Moisturise frequently and stay out of direct sunlight.
• Day 5: Peeling slows down, and skin feels softer. Apply sunscreen liberally when outdoors.
• Day 6: Visible improvement appears as the new skin emerges. You can use minimal makeup if needed.
• Day 7: Healing is complete for most individuals. Continue a simple, protective skincare routine to maintain results.

Post-Treatment Skincare, SPF, and What to Avoid

After a Dermapen session, gentle skincare helps protect healing skin and maintain results. Keep the routine simple, focusing on hydration and sun protection.

Follow these key steps during recovery:

• Use mild, soothing products: Stick to fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers.
• Apply SPF daily: Use sunscreen (SPF 30+) to shield new skin from UV damage.
• Avoid strong actives: Skip retinol, exfoliants, and acids for about a week.
• Limit sun and heat exposure: Avoid saunas, workouts, and direct sunlight.
• Let the skin heal naturally: Don’t pick, rub, or touch treated areas.

Dermapen Results Timeline and Treatment Frequency

Dermapen treatment longevity depends on gradual skin renewal and collagen rebuilding. Improvements in texture and tone become more noticeable with each session, while consistent treatments help maintain firmness, smoothness, and overall skin clarity.

When Results Start to Show (Weeks 2–8)

Results from Dermapen sessions appear gradually as the skin rebuilds collagen and renews itself. Visible improvements become clearer as the healing cycle progresses week by week.

Here’s what typically happens after treatment:

Early Weeks

• Subtle smoothing and softening of the skin begin as initial healing starts.
• Minor texture irregularities may start to fade, giving a fresher look.
• Skin tone begins to even out as new cells surface.

Mid Phase

• Collagen formation increases, reducing fine lines and improving elasticity.
• The skin feels firmer and looks more refined as structure strengthens.
• Ongoing repair enhances clarity and overall smoothness.

Later Weeks

• Skin appears noticeably rejuvenated with improved tone and texture.
• Firmness becomes more apparent as collagen matures.
• Results continue to develop naturally with sustained skincare and protection.

Typical Number of Sessions (3–6 Protocol)

Dermapen treatments are performed in a structured series to achieve the best outcome. Each session builds on the previous one as collagen renewal progresses and the skin gradually strengthens.

Here’s how the treatment plan is typically structured:

Multiple Sessions Recommended

• A structured series helps build cumulative results with each treatment.
• Repeated collagen stimulation leads to smoother, firmer skin over time.
• The number of sessions depends on goals like scar reduction or rejuvenation.

Adequate Recovery Time

• Sessions are spaced to allow full healing before the next treatment.
• This ensures skin regeneration occurs safely and effectively.
• Proper intervals help prevent overstimulation and maintain natural balance.

Customised Frequency

• Treatment frequency is tailored to individual skin type and condition.
• Sensitive or mature skin may need longer intervals between sessions.
• A personalised plan ensures optimal results with minimal irritation.

What Affects Your Results (Age, Skin Type, Aftercare)

Several factors influence how well your skin responds to Dermapen treatments. Age, skin type, and aftercare each play a vital role in determining how quickly and effectively results appear.

Here’s how each factor contributes to your overall outcome:

Age

• Younger skin typically regenerates faster and produces collagen more easily.
• Mature skin may take longer to show visible changes as its healing rate is slower.
• Consistent sessions help maintain firmness and elasticity across all age groups.

Skin Type

• Thicker or oilier skin can usually handle deeper microneedling settings effectively.
• Sensitive or thinner skin requires gentler depth to prevent irritation.
• Skin tone also matters, as darker tones need careful handling to avoid pigmentation.

Aftercare

• Proper hydration and barrier repair speed up recovery and enhance results.
• Daily use of sunscreen protects new skin from UV damage and discoloration.
• Avoiding harsh actives and exfoliants maintains the integrity of healing skin.

Dermapen Safety, Risks, and Suitability

Dermapen microneedling is generally safe when performed by a qualified professional using sterile, single-use needles. Mild redness or swelling may occur but usually fades within days. People with active skin infections or open wounds should postpone treatment. With proper technique and aftercare, it suits most skin types and minimises risk effectively.

Common Side Effects (Redness, Swelling, Flaking)

After a Dermapen session, mild side effects are a normal part of the healing process and indicate that your skin is responding to treatment. These effects are temporary and usually settle within a few days.

Here are the most common post-treatment reactions:

Redness

• The skin may look pink or flushed immediately after the session, similar to a light sunburn.
• This redness indicates increased blood flow and collagen activity in the treated area.
• It usually fades within a day or two, revealing a smoother, refreshed complexion.

Swelling

• Mild swelling can occur as the skin reacts to micro-injury and begins healing.
• The puffiness is temporary and generally subsides within 24–48 hours.
• Applying a cool compress and keeping the skin hydrated helps calm inflammation.

Flaking

• Gentle peeling or flaking may appear a few days after treatment as old skin cells shed.
• This is part of the natural renewal process, signaling fresh skin formation underneath.
• Avoid exfoliating or picking at the skin to let it heal smoothly and evenly.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Dermapen

Certain individuals may not be suitable for Dermapen due to health conditions, sensitive skin, or other factors that increase the risk of complications.

Here’s what defines a good candidate:

• General health: Should have no active infections or severe skin irritation.
• Realistic goals: Understand that results develop gradually over time.
• Skin conditions: Avoid treatment if dealing with acne, eczema, or open wounds.
• Pregnancy: Not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Medication: Consult a doctor if taking blood thinners or acne medication.

When Dermapen Treatment Should Be Avoided

Dermapen treatment should be postponed in certain cases to avoid complications and ensure skin safety. Individuals with specific conditions or sensitivities may not be suitable for the procedure.

Avoid Dermapen treatment if you:

• Have active infections or acne: Treat these first to prevent irritation or bacterial spread.
• Have skin conditions: Eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis can worsen with microneedling.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding: The procedure is not advised during this period.
• Have open wounds or recent sunburn: Wait until the skin barrier has fully healed.
• Use blood thinners or strong acne medication: Consult a medical professional before scheduling treatment.

Safety for Darker Skin Types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)

Darker skin tones can safely undergo Dermapen microneedling when performed correctly. The treatment is suitable for Fitzpatrick IV–VI types, as it stimulates collagen without causing significant irritation or pigment disruption.

Here’s why it works well for deeper complexions:

• Low pigmentation risk: Unlike lasers or peels, Dermapen minimises post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
• Controlled depth: Adjustable needle depth allows precise treatment while protecting melanocytes.
• Safe healing response: The process promotes collagen renewal without triggering unwanted discoloration.

Dermapen vs Other Treatments

When exploring options for skin rejuvenation, it's essential to understand how Dermapen compares to other treatments available. Each method offers unique benefits, catering to specific skin concerns while providing varying levels of invasiveness and recovery time. 

Below, you will find a detailed comparison of Dermapen, chemical peels, laser treatments, and RF microneedling.

Dermapen vs Chemical Peels

Dermapen and chemical peels both rejuvenate the skin but work through different mechanisms. The depth of action and type of improvement achieved set these two treatments apart.

Here’s how they compare in terms of approach and benefits:

Dermapen Treatment:

• Creates controlled micro-injuries to trigger collagen and elastin production in deeper skin layers.
• Improves firmness, texture, and scarring for longer-lasting structural enhancement.
• Suitable for most skin types, including sensitive and darker tones.

Chemical Peels:

• Exfoliate the skin’s outer layer to remove dead cells and promote new cell turnover.
• Brighten dull skin and reduce pigmentation and minor surface imperfections.
• Work best for superficial concerns but are less effective for deeper texture issues.

Dermapen vs Laser Skin Treatments

Dermapen and laser treatments both improve skin quality but differ in how they achieve results. The key distinction lies in their level of invasiveness, recovery time, and suitability for various skin types.

Here’s how the two compare in function and benefits:

Dermapen Treatment:

• Uses microneedling to create controlled micro-injuries that stimulate natural collagen production.
• Non-invasive and suitable for a wide range of skin tones, including darker complexions.
• Involves minimal downtime with a lower risk of post-treatment irritation.

Laser Skin Treatments:

• Use focused light energy to target specific concerns like pigmentation, redness, or vascular lesions.
• Offer high precision but can cause temporary redness or peeling as the skin heals.
• May require longer downtime and are typically best suited for lighter to medium skin tone

Dermapen vs RF Microneedling

Dermapen and RF microneedling both aim to boost collagen production but differ in technique and intensity. While both use micro-needles to trigger skin renewal, RF microneedling adds heat-based energy for deeper stimulation.

Here’s how the two treatments compare in approach and outcomes:

Dermapen Treatment:

• Relies solely on mechanical microneedling to promote natural collagen and elastin formation.
• Ideal for surface-level concerns such as texture, scars, and fine lines.
• Involves minimal downtime and is suitable for most skin types.

RF Microneedling:

• Combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to heat deeper skin layers.
• Provides stronger tightening and remodeling for more pronounced concerns like laxity or deep scars.
• May cause slightly more redness or warmth post-treatment but delivers enhanced firmness over time.

Dermapen vs Botox Treatment

Comparing Dermapen and Botox shows how each treatment targets aging differently. Dermapen works by stimulating collagen to improve skin texture and firmness, while Botox relaxes facial muscles to reduce wrinkles. Both improve appearance, but their results and maintenance schedules vary.

Dermapen Treatment

• Uses microneedling to create controlled micro-injuries, stimulating collagen and elastin production.
• Improves skin texture, firmness, and fine lines gradually over multiple sessions.
• Suitable for most skin types, including sensitive and darker tones.
• Minimal downtime, with results building progressively for natural-looking rejuvenation.

Botox Treatment

• Uses targeted injections to relax facial muscles, temporarily reducing dynamic wrinkles.
• Provides quicker visible results for lines caused by facial expressions.
• Best suited for areas like forehead lines, frown lines, and crow’s feet.
• Results typically last 3–4 months, requiring regular touch-ups to maintain effect.

When to Combine Dermapen with Other Treatments

Combining Dermapen with other skin treatments like Hydrafacial, chemical peels, or laser therapy, can provide broader and more noticeable improvements. A strategic approach helps target multiple skin concerns for enhanced results.

Here are common combination approaches:

• Chemical peels: Enhances exfoliation on the surface while Dermapen stimulates deeper collagen renewal.
• Laser therapy: Addresses pigmentation, redness, or vascular issues that complement Dermapen’s textural benefits.
• PRP or growth factors: Boosts healing and collagen synthesis through added biological support.
• Hydrating serums: Improves skin moisture and absorption efficiency for a radiant finish.
• Professional consultation: Ensures the right combination plan tailored to your skin type and treatment goals.

Dermapen Cost & Value

Dermapen treatment costs vary depending on clinic location, practitioner experience, and treatment customisation. Prices may also differ if serums, PRP, or complementary therapies are included. Evaluating these factors helps determine the overall value, as skilled application and quality products often deliver longer-lasting, more noticeable results.

What Influences Dermapen Pricing

Dermapen pricing can vary significantly between clinics based on several clinical and operational factors. Cost differences often reflect treatment quality, expertise, and the level of customisation provided.

Key factors that influence pricing include:

• Practitioner qualifications and clinical experience.
• Quality and brand of the Dermapen device used.
• Depth of treatment required for specific skin concerns.
• Number of sessions recommended for optimal results.
• Inclusion of add-ons such as PRP, growth factors, or medical-grade serums.
• Clinic location and overall service standards.
• Aftercare support and follow-up consultations.

Single Session vs Treatment Packages

A single Dermapen session may seem more affordable initially, but noticeable results usually require multiple treatments. Packages often reduce the per-session cost and support consistent collagen stimulation for better long-term improvement.

Here are general estimated price ranges:

• Single Session: £195 – £350
• Package (3 sessions): £550 – £900
• Package (6 sessions): £950 – £1,200

Note: Prices are general market estimates and may vary depending on clinic location, practitioner expertise, device quality, and treatment depth. Always confirm exact pricing and treatment plans directly with your chosen provider.

Clinic Dermapen vs At-Home Devices (What’s Safer & Better)

When comparing professional Dermapen treatments with at-home microneedling tools, the main differences relate to safety, precision, and overall results.

Here are the key differences:

Clinic Dermapen (Professional Treatment)

• Medical-grade motorised device with adjustable depth control.
• Performed by trained practitioners with anatomical knowledge.
• Strict hygiene and sterilisation protocols.
• Customised treatment based on skin type and concern.
• Lower risk of infection or improper technique.
• More consistent and clinically reliable results.

At-Home Microneedling Devices

• Limited depth control and lower needle precision.
• No professional assessment or skin analysis.
• Higher risk of irritation, uneven treatment, or infection.
• Typically suitable only for very superficial use.
• Results are mild and less predictable compared to clinic treatments.

Is Dermapen Worth the Cost? Results vs Alternatives

Dermapen offers strong long-term value by improving texture, firmness, and tone through collagen stimulation rather than temporary surface effects.

Compared with options like Hydrafacial, chemical peels, traditional rollers, radiofrequency, or laser treatments, Dermapen provides deeper correction than facials and peels, with less downtime than aggressive lasers. 

For many patients, it delivers noticeable, lasting improvement with controlled recovery, making it a worthwhile investment in a structured skincare plan.

Before You Go…

Dermapen microneedling treatment encourages natural collagen production, helping refine texture, minimise scarring, and restore skin firmness with minimal downtime. When performed by trained professionals and paired with the right aftercare, the treatment offers lasting, natural-looking improvements.

If you’re planning to start your skin rejuvenation journey, always choose a medically supervised clinic that prioritises safety, customised treatment plans, and evidence-based techniques for optimal outcomes.

About the Institute of Medical Physics

The Institute of Medical Physics is a trusted center for advanced aesthetic and dermatological treatments, combining scientific precision with medical expertise. Our approach integrates clinically proven technologies, such as Dermapen microneedling, laser rejuvenation, and skin-tightening procedures, to ensure safe and effective results.

Led by Dr. Emanuel Paleco, our team focuses on long-term skin health and visible improvement through personalised care. Every treatment plan is designed to suit individual needs while maintaining the highest medical standards. 

Book a consultation with Dr. Paleco and his expert team at the Institute of Medical Physics to begin your journey toward healthier, more radiant skin.