Whether you’re looking to treat acne scarring or neck wrinkles, SkinPen from premier medical aesthetics company Crown Aesthetics is a popular FDA-cleared microneedling device that can provide noticeable results in as few as three treatment sessions spaced a month apart. It is approved for use on the face and neck, and due to its non-invasive nature, microneedling typically requires minimal downtime.

Recently, the brand celebrated its fifth birthday and also introduced the launch of its new Premium Biocellulose Masque for post-treatment skin soothing. Designed to quickly soothe and calm skin by providing an immediate cooling effect, the SkinPen Premium Biocellulose Masque is great for all skin tones and types, and can be used after any facial procedures that may cause discomfort including SkinPen, dermabrasion, lasers, peels, and other ablative treatments. The Premium Biocellulose Masque is available as an add-on option for SkinPen and MicroPen EVO Treatment Kits, and is included as a part of the new Treatment Kit Premium configuration.

We interviewed NYC-based Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Yael Halaas to learn more about what microneedling is, the benefits of SkinPen microneedling, expected results, and more.

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a procedure that uses tiny needles to make microscopic punctures in the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the skin to repair itself naturally, resulting in smoother, clearer, and more youthful-looking skin. The procedure is safe and natural, and it does not leave any scars.

Who is a good candidate for microneedling and what issues can it treat?

Anyone can benefit from microneedling, regardless of their skin tone or type. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with fine lines, wrinkles, scars, or stretch marks. However, it is not recommended for individuals with very sensitive skin or who are struggling with acne all over their face.

Can microneedling help with acne and acne scars?

Microneedling can help improve the appearance of acne scars. However, it is not recommended to use microneedling to treat active acne spots.

How long is a session and how should one prepare for it?

The microneedling procedure typically takes around 30 to 35 minutes. To prepare for the procedure, it is recommended to avoid sun exposure and to avoid using certain skincare products in the days leading up to the procedure.

Is microneedling painful?

A light numbing cream is typically used before the procedure to ensure maximum comfort. The procedure itself is generally not painful, although some individuals may experience mild discomfort.

What is the recovery process like?

After the microneedling procedure, the skin may appear slightly pink. However, this typically subsides within a few hours. It is recommended to avoid sun exposure and to use gentle skincare products for a few days after the procedure.

What results can one expect and how does microneedling compare to other procedures?

Individuals may see an improvement in skin texture, pore size, pigmentation, fine lines, and scarring. These results have a direct correlation with the increased collagen production.

Microdermabrasion offers a more surface-level form of exfoliation of the skin, whereas microneedling creates microlesions to the skin causing a faster healing process where you see the above results.

Botox helps minimize and soften the formation of lines/wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing the muscle.

IPL laser is also a great tool for certain skin types who want to address pigmented areas, blemishes, and wrinkles.

Chemical peels, depending on the strength and type of actives used, are geared more towards individuals with deeper pigmentation, such as melasma, and have not typically seen as substantial results with lasers.

Overall, microneedling is a great maintenance treatment for collagen induction therapy, and the addition of PRP, PRF, and exosomes can be used as an extra benefit.

How long do results last?

The results from microneedling can last anywhere from two months up to a year, depending on an individual's skin type. However, patients may see an improvement in skin texture, pore size, pigmentation, fine lines, and scarring.

What sets SkinPen apart from other microneedling brands?

It is clinically proven that SkinPen reduces the appearance of scars. And in addition to that 94% of the patients noticed an improvement in neck wrinkles one month post-treatment. We treat a lot of our patients with microneedling and all our patients are happy with the results so they recommend it to their friends and family.

Does SkinPen have any celebrity fans?

SkinPen has celebrity fans like Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Demi Moore, just to mention a few off the list.

How can someone find a SkinPen provider?

I offer it at my offices Manhattan and Westchester, New York. You can also find the nearest Crown Aesthetics SkinPen provider near you by clicking here.

For more information about SkinPen, visit the website and follow on Instagram: @skinpen. For more information about Dr. Halaas, visit her website and follow on Instagram: @drhalaas

[Photos courtesy of Skinpen]

Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk