SkinPen

Conveniently located to serve the areas of San Diego, CA

SkinPen is an automated microneedling device used to reduce the look of acne scars, neck wrinkles, and other signs of aging. As a safe, effective, and affordable alternative to facial plastic surgery, SkinPen microneedling can offer a solution to frustrating skin conditions without breaking the bank. 

Under the guidance of Dr. John T. Alexander II and Dr. Jordan S. Kaplan, our highly skilled and experienced staff are well equipped to provide any aesthetic services you may desire. To schedule a consultation at Alexus MedSpa in San Diego, please call our facility at (888) 436-9532 or fill out this form at your convenience!

About SkinPen and Microneedling

SkinPen utilizes microneedling technology to stimulate self-healing in the skin. When penetrated repeatedly with small, sterilized needles, the dermis produces new collagen and elastin cells. This process can help reduce the appearance of scarring and wrinkles with minimal pain and without the use of chemicals and heat. 

The consistent nature of the use of SkinPen allows for what is called controlled healing, since the wounding was controlled as well. This is what causes the production of collagen, helping the elasticity and plumpness of the skin. As well as working on reducing any scarring, it can also make your skin look smoother and younger when applied regularly. (1)

SkinPen System

The SkinPen device looks exactly like it sounds; an ergonomic pen used to gently microneedle the skin in very small sections. The microneedles are sterile and replaceable, making the treatment very safe and hygienic. The health provider will be able to apply the treatment with little difficulty, taking care to follow a needling plan to ensure no area of the face gets overtreated. The SkinPen also comes with a hydration solution called Skinfuse Lift HG. This is used before and after application to reduce irritation from the needling.

When used on the face, SkinPen can allow new production of collagen in order to reduce the severity of acne scarring or even wrinkles. This treatment can also be applied to the chest for certain patients. After a quick healing process, you may go back in to receive two or three more applications in order to see the results you desire, but patients often see differences after just one treatment.

Benefits of SkinPen Treatment

The benefits of receiving this treatment are:

  • Reduced acne scarring and hyperpigmentation
  • Less noticeable neck wrinkles 
  • Enhanced production of collagen
  • Smoother, more subtle skin
  • Dramatic results achieved without any chemicals
  • Short, easy procedure that makes a noticeable difference after just one treatments

If you have always wrestled with deep acne scarring or have been noticing “tech neck” developing and want a quick and effective solution, consider microneedling with SkinPen for your next spa day. 

Candidates for SkinPen Microneedling

You make a good candidate for Skinpen treatment if you have:

  • Noticeable to severe acne scarring
  • Minimal but present wrinkling around the neck
  • Fine lines or wrinkling on the forehead or around the mouth
  • No known allergies to the skin care products or topical lidocaine that will be used during the treatment
  • No currently severe acne or wounds of any kind on the face
  • Have realistic and informed expectations for the outcome

Whether you are recently noticing the development of fine lines or have been dealing with acne scarring since your teenage years, SkinPen microneedling can get you closer to clearer and younger-looking skin.

Personal Consultation

At your personal consultation, one of our experienced providers will explain exactly what SkinPen microneedling entails. To see optimal results, you will most likely receive the treatment up to four times, each session spaced 30 days apart, to give your skin the necessary time to start healing itself. 

There is a possibility that you can receive your first SkinPen treatment the same day as your consultation. The treatment takes around 30 minutes to complete, so there is plenty of time to discuss your expectations and finish your first session in one day. 

Preparation

Tips on how to prepare for SkinPen microneedling:

  • Avoid direct sunlight for 24 hours prior
  • Refrain from the use of any retinoids when applying skincare products for 24 hours prior
  • Wait to receive treatment for 6 months after taking any oral acne medication like isotretinoin

Although your provider will cleanse your skin, it is helpful to come to your appointment makeup-free if possible. That will also make it easier to assess the skin and discuss your wishes and expectations thoroughly.

SkinPen Treatment Process

For this aesthetic procedure, your provider will first cleanse and disinfect the treatment area. Since it is typically performed on the face, they will use a gentle cleanser that will remove any skincare products or makeup that was applied to the skin. Then your provider may apply a topical numbing cream like lidocaine to keep you comfortable during the procedure. 

The numbing agent is then removed with an antiseptic solution to make sure it does not clog any pores or interfere with the treatment. Then you are ready to start!

Your provider will apply a very thin and even layer of Skinfuse Lift HG, a hydrogel used to protect the skin from friction and abrasion caused by the pen. This solution is often given to you to apply lightly after the procedure is through.

As your provider starts the microneedling treatment, the SkinPen is typically set at a low setting that is increased as the treatment moves around the face. This is to ensure that the needles do not go too deep into the skin right away, allowing the provider to control the procedure according to the patient’s needs. The entire procedure typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes to complete.  

Recovery and Results

For some aesthetic procedures like the SkinPen application, there is no downtime for the patient. You will experience some mild redness as the blood vessels under the skin are stimulated, but any pain should subside quickly.

For optimal results, treatment with the SkinPen should be repeated 3 or 4 times depending on the degree of scarring and wrinkles specific to each patient. During a clinical trial performed in Helsinki, it was analyzed that 73% of participants that received SkinPen treatment saw a major improvement in the quality of their skin, and 78% saw major decreases in severity of their neck wrinkles. (2)

Corresponding & Complementary Treatments

The Addition of PRP

Sometimes when microneedling, providers can add PRP (platelet-rich plasma) to further rejuvenate the skin. Usually given as injections, it encourages wound healing in a similar way to microneedling does, but instead of prolonged puncturing, it acts like a growth factor cocktail. Platelets are used to encourage renewal of cells and the growth of tissue, making it perfect for adding glow and smoothing the facial skin. It can be done in combination with the SkinPen application. (3)

Diamond Glow

We offer the Diamond Glow facial, a treatment that rejuvenates the skin through exfoliation and extraction, performed by our specialized providers. A facial is a treatment that also has no downtime and can be applied quickly and efficiently to guarantee your comfort. This facial uses the application of serums to the skin as it is in a vulnerable state, right after exfoliation. The pores are more receptive at this point in the treatment, making for fantastic results every time.

Dermaplaning

We also perform dermaplaning. With the use of a small medical-grade surgical blade, a provider carefully grazes the skin’s surface to remove dead skin cells, facial hair, and debris. This allows for a fresh clean start for your face!

How Much is SkinPen Microneedling in San Diego?

The complete cost of SkinPen application depends on each individual patient’s treatment plan and how many treatments they receive. If you want to learn more about SkinPen microneedling and other Alexus Med Spa procedures, schedule a consultation today or call our San Diego location at (888) 436-9532. 

FAQ

Can Microneedling improve skin texture?

Yes, one of the primary benefits of microneedling is its ability to improve skin texture. By stimulating collagen and elastin production, microneedling helps smooth out rough skin, refine pores, and diminish the appearance of uneven skin texture.

Is Microneedling effective for hyperpigmentation?

Yes, microneedling can be an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation concerns. The stimulation of collagen production helps break up excess melanin deposits, reducing the appearance of dark spots and promoting a more even skin tone.

How does SkinPen work?

The tiny microneedles puncture the skin at a fast and consistent rate to prompt the natural healing process. Once the skin is affected, it immediately sends collagen and elastin to the areas in which the treatment has made an impact to heal the “wound.” That’s how your skin is rejuvenated, by creating its own natural chemicals.

How long will my SkinPen results last?

Whether or not you go back in for a second or third treatment, your skin may continue to produce collagen for 3 to 6 months after the treatment. And you are free to receive at any time again as long as you wait 30 days since your last application.

References

  1. Walsh L. Microneedling: a versatile and popular treatment option. Journal of Aesthetic Nursing. 2019;8(6):280-284. doi:https://doi.org/10.12968/joan.2019.8.6.280
  2. Alqam M, Wamsley CE, Hitchcock T, Jones BC, Akgul Y, Kenkel JM. Efficacy and Tolerability of a Microneedling Device for Treating Wrinkles on the Neck. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2022;42(10):1154-1160. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjac085
  3. Nanda S, Chauhan K, Shetty V, Dashore S, Bhatia S. Platelet-rich plasma in aesthetics. Indian Dermatology Online Journal. 2021;12(7):41. doi:https://doi.org/10.4103/idoj.idoj_290_21