Dermapen FAQs

What is Dermapen?

Dermapen is a new technology in micro-needling procedures, which are used to stimulate the production of collagen within the skin to provide skin rejuvenation and plumping. The Dermapen is a small hand-held device that is often used by our New York Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank to treat acne scars, fine lines and help remove stretch marks. This device utilizes mechanized puncturing actions to provide fast, effective treatments and uses disposable needles, so there is no risk of cross-contamination.

How does it work?

The treatment involves the application of a solution to your skin and the use of the Dermapen device. First Dr. Frank will apply the solution to either target the whole face or smaller areas of the face, and then he will move the Dermapen device over your skin to create thousands of tiny holes in the surface of your skin. The Dermapen device utilizes multiples needs to vertically pierce the skin. The device has an automatic vibration function that increases the effectiveness of the treatment and reduces pain and discomfort. The Dermapen is a collagen induction method. The micro-injuries caused by the needles stimulate the body’s natural collage production. The process harnesses the body’s natural ability to heal and repair itself, thus provides very natural results.

How does Dermapen differ from Dermaroller?

Dermaroller was one of the original micro needling technologies used for skin rejuvenation, but the Dermapen offers many advantages in comparison to this older technology. The Dermaroller employs a similar technique of creating numerous holes in the skin’s surface to stimulate collage production; however, rather than using a vertical hand-held device like the Dermapen, the Dermaroller is a device that has cone-shaped pins on its tubular surface. Thus, when being rolled across the skin, the pins pierce the skin leaving cone-shaped holes on the surface, rather than fine needles marks as with the Dermapen. The consequence is that the Dermaroller procedure causes much more bleeding and epidermal damage. Additional, the Dermaroller is difficult to use on small or curved areas of the body, whereas the Dermapen can easily reach all areas. Furthermore, the Dermaroller is not able to easily penetrate scar tissue, but the Dermapen’s vertical delivery allows the needles to easily pierce scar tissue.

Is it painful?

Pain levels vary for each patient, based upon tolerance to pain, areas being treated, and other factors. In order to minimize pain, Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank will apply a numbing anesthetic cream to your face about 45 minutes before the procedure. This cream will dull the sensation of pain, and will wear off after the procedure.

What precautions do I need to take after treatment?

Dr. Frank will give you post-treatment instructions to follow. You will need to avoid exposure to the sun for at least 24 hours. Additionally, you should not use make up, sun block, or work out for 24 hours following the treatment. Specific instructions may vary based on your skin type, topical solution used, and the condition being treated.

How long does it take to see results?

Most patients see full skin rejuvenation results in 6 to 8 weeks following their session. Results will vary in each patient.

How many treatments are needed?

Multiple sessions are recommended to achieve optimal results; however results can be seen after just one session. Multiple sessions may be required when used on various skin problems, such as treating acne or reducing the appearance of scar tissue.

What topical treatments can be used with Dermapen?

Based on the condition being treated, your doctor may apply hyaluronic acid, collagen, and/or elastin to your skin before or after your procedure. These solutions will enhance the effectiveness of your treatment. If you are interested in learning more about Dermapen, please visit our Park Avenue office in Manhattan