SkinPen® Microneedling

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Rough skin texture, scarring and fine wrinkles can all develop on the skin as a result of poor skin care, damage or simply age. Your skin is a constantly renewing organ capable of rapid healing, but that doesn’t mean it can’t use a little help along the way. SkinPen® is a microneedling treatment that creates tiny micro-injuries in the skin, generating results from your skin’s natural healing processes.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jennifer Harrington understands what a struggle proper skincare can be for men and women of any age. During your consultation, she’ll help you understand the benefits of facial rejuvenation so you can feel comfortable and confident moving forward.

Harrington Plastic Surgery has helped women and men from throughout the Twin Cities with microneedling.

Benefits of SkinPen

SkinPen is a microneedling device that uses 12 tiny surgical-grade needles to create controlled micro-injuries just beneath the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries trigger the skin’s natural healing response, stimulating the production of new collagen without damaging the surrounding tissue.

Some of the most notable benefits of SkinPen microneedling include:

  • Improved skin texture and tone
  • Reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
  • Fading of acne scars and hyperpigmentation
  • Minimally invasive with no downtime
  • Customizable results

Who Is a Good Candidate for SkinPen?

Almost any man or woman who wishes to improve their complexion can be a good candidate for microneedling pen treatments. Some of the most common reasons people consider SkinPen include:

  • Acne scars
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Uneven skin tone
  • Rough skin texture
  • Dull complexion

That said, SkinPen is not recommended for everyone. Those with active acne, open wounds, or skin infections in the treatment area, a history of keloid scarring, or recent isotretinoin (Accutane) use within the past 6 months may not be candidates. Those who are pregnant, nursing, or have certain autoimmune or bleeding disorders should discuss their medical history with Dr. Harrington prior to scheduling to confirm they’re a good candidate.

Your SkinPen Treatment

SkinPen treatments are performed by our certified physician assistant and nurses. Before your microneedling treatment, a topical numbing solution will be applied to your face to minimize any discomfort you may feel during your appointment. Most patients report that the procedure feels like a vibration on the skin and does not cause pain, though some areas of the face may be more sensitive than others.

During your microneedling treatment, the SkinPen device will be moved over the entire surface area of your face. The needles are too small to cause real damage to the skin. Instead, they barely puncture the skin’s surface, creating tiny micro-injuries just deep enough to stimulate your skin’s healing mechanisms. The entire process usually takes around 30 minutes and can be likened to an aggressive facial.

Depending on your appearance concerns, Dr. Harrington and her staff may suggest additional treatments to complement your SkinPen results. Skin rejuvenation treatments are often used in conjunction with injectables like BOTOX® or dermal fillers.

SkinPen Downtime

While SkinPen is a nonsurgical facial rejuvenating treatment, you should not plan any social activities to take place immediately after your SkinPen facial. You can expect redness and swelling for the first 24 hours after microneedling. Dr. Harrington may ask you to use special skincare products for the first few days after your treatment, such as a hyaluronic acid-based moisturizer. You should also avoid direct sun exposure for at least 1 week following your SkinPen procedure.

By 2 or 3 days after your appointment, you can begin wearing makeup to cover up any lingering pinkness. You may experience a mild amount of peeling in some areas. Although individual experience varies, most people can see an improvement in the appearance of their skin in about 3 days. All redness and swelling should be completely gone by 5 days after your appointment.

Complications of SkinPen are rare, but it’s still important to discuss any potential risks with Dr. Harrington or her staff prior to your appointment. If you experience any prolonged bleeding or severe swelling, notify our office immediately.

SkinPen Results

Because SkinPen stimulates collagen production and cell turnover, results develop gradually rather than all at once. Most patients notice an improvement in skin texture and tone within a few weeks of their first treatment, with more significant changes becoming visible as the collagen remodeling process continues over the following months.

For optimal results, most people schedule a series of 3 to 6 treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. This allows the skin adequate time to heal between sessions while building on the progress of each prior treatment. Maintenance sessions once or twice a year can help to sustain results long-term.

In addition to the face, SkinPen can also be used on the neck, décolletage and hands to address signs of aging in areas that are often overlooked. It is also an effective option for reducing the appearance of stretch marks on nearly any part of the body.

Next Steps

Microneedling treatments can offer a nonsurgical option for facial rejuvenation. If you have questions or would like more information about SkinPen, including pricing, please contact us online or call our Plymouth office at 651-290-7600 to request your SkinPen consultation and learn more about how to enhance your natural appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does SkinPen microneedling cost in Minneapolis?

The cost of SkinPen varies depending on the treatment area and the number of sessions recommended. Pricing is discussed during your consultation, and financing options are available to help make treatment more accessible.

How many SkinPen treatments will I need?

Most people see the best results with a series of 3 to 6 treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. The exact number depends on your skin concerns and goals, which Dr. Harrington’s team will discuss with you at your consultation.

Is SkinPen safe for all skin tones and types?

Yes. SkinPen is FDA-cleared and safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types, making it an excellent option for women and men who may not be candidates for certain laser treatments due to their skin tone.

Does SkinPen microneedling hurt?

A topical numbing cream is applied before treatment to keep you comfortable. Most people describe the sensation as a mild buzzing or light scratching. Any redness or sensitivity after the session typically resolves within 24 to 48 hours.

How long do SkinPen results last?

Results vary by individual, but with a full series of treatments, improvements in skin texture, tone and scarring can last a year or more. Occasional maintenance sessions help to sustain those results over time.

Is SkinPen “worth it”?

For patients looking for a clinically proven, minimally invasive way to improve skin texture, reduce scarring and turn back the clock without downtime, SkinPen consistently delivers significant results. As with any cosmetic treatment, outcome depends on realistic expectations and committing to the recommended series of sessions.