What changes with Dermapen 4? Effects on acne scars and pores, and guidelines for redness and number of sessions

Dermapen 4 is a treatment that creates many tiny holes in the skin with fine needles and increases collagen through the skin's natural healing response.[1]Because it does not significantly abrade the skin surface, downtime such as swelling and redness is said to be relatively short.[2]However, changes appear gradually, and it is not a treatment that produces dramatic results in a single session.

What happens inside the skin?

When small injuries form, the skin begins working to heal them. In this process, collagen and elastin—which provides elasticity—are created, and new blood vessels also form, as explained.[1].

This method is called microneedling, and Dermapen is one such device.[1]Because it preserves the skin surface, inflammation and color changes are said to be unlikely.[2]Note that most of the research introduced here covers microneedling in general, not just Dermapen 4.

What does it treat?

Research has demonstrated effectiveness and safety for scars, acne, melasma, photoaging, and skin rejuvenation.[3].

For scars, a report analyzing 58 studies and 1,845 people showed that the appearance of acne scars and similar conditions improved compared to before treatment.[4]It is also used for improvement of wrinkles, fine lines, and pores.[5].

However, it has been noted that efficacy assessment often relies on evaluation by physicians or the patient's visual judgment.[5]There are still few changes measured numerically.

When do effects appear and after how many sessions?

Changes develop over several months. In a study where 10 people received 6 sessions every 2 weeks, collagen began to increase 1 month after starting treatment, and a clear difference was evident 3 months later.[6].

Needle depth also makes a difference. For acne scars, a comparison reported that 2.5 mm needles were more effective than 1.5 mm.[1]Deeper is not necessarily better; the choice depends on your concerns and skin condition.

How long do redness and downtime last?

In most cases, they resolve within several days. In the study mentioned earlier, post-treatment redness and swelling resolved within 2 days.[6]Other studies also reported that redness and swelling disappeared within 2–3 days.[6].

Long-lasting side effects are said to be uncommon. On the other hand, temporary redness and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (discoloration from inflammation) are reported relatively frequently.[3].

How does it differ from laser?

The main difference is that it does not abrade the skin surface.[2]For this reason, it is sometimes chosen as an alternative to laser in darker skin types, as explained.[4].

While laser treatment for acne scars has proven effectiveness, side effects such as infection, inflammation, and keloid (raised scarring) have also been reported.[5]Which is more suitable depends on the depth of the scars and your skin characteristics.

What should the doctor examine during consultation to see if it's right for you?

You should have them examine the type and depth of acne scars or pores, whether your skin tends to retain discoloration, and whether acne is currently inflamed.

Needle depth, number of sessions, and intervals will vary based on these conditions. Since you cannot decide based on articles alone, have your skin examined during a consultation and confirm how many sessions you need and what results to aim for.