Why SkinPen® Microneedling Is One of the Best Acne Scar Treatments for Results

For anyone concerned about acne scars, there are countless solutions on the market: from home skin care products and injectables to skin peels and laser resurfacing. While most of these have been proven to work to some degree, microneedling with SkinPen may just be the best treatment for acne scars of them all.

Microneedling as a cosmetic treatment is minimally invasive, quick, effective and safe for most skin tones. But it needs to be performed by a trusted and experienced professional using quality equipment — and we believe SkinPen is it. Learn more about the benefits of choosing SkinPen to treat acne scars below.

The Problem With Acne Scars

Acne scars are a common problem. About 80% of people between ages 11 and 30 will suffer from acne at some point, and a fifth of them will be left with scarring. This scarring happens when inflammation from acne damages nearby skin, leading to tissue loss or too much tissue growing over the damaged skin.

The main problem with acne scars is that they’re permanent. Even worse, they’re usually found on the most visible of all places: your face. Acne scars often make the skin look uneven, and some may be left with pigmentation changes. Many of those left with this consequence of acne are unhappy with how their skin looks, some to the extent that it affects their self-esteem. Just like acne, the scars left behind can be more than just an aesthetic problem.

Treating Acne Scars With Microneedling

Treatment of acne scars needs to be individualized. Because acne scars vary in severity and type, and because everyone’s skin is different, you need to first consult with a qualified skin professional about your treatment options. In some cases, they may recommend multiple treatments for best results.

One of the most popular ways to treat acne scars is with microneedling. Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure where small needles are used to puncture the skin to trigger collagen production that can smooth out the scars. That’s why it is also referred to as “collagen induction therapy.”

While injuring already-injured skin may seem like an unusual way to treat acne scars, the treatment has been proven to provide good results with minimum risk for patients with dark or sensitive skin.

About SkinPen® Precision Microneedling

The market is saturated with microneedling instruments, both for home use and those used by cosmetic practitioners. Just a couple of examples are dermarollers, dermastamps and dermapens. But not all of them are created equal, and these devices come with different needle sizes and purposes.

The SkinPen Precision device was created by Crown Aesthetics to treat acne scars, among other skin concerns. It is a mechanical dermapen stamping device that has sterile and single-use cartridges containing 14 microneedles. What’s important to know about SkinPen is that it is the first FDA-cleared microneedling device that has been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of acne scars after one month in at least 80% of patients.

The device works by creating up to 1600 microchannels in the skin per second. This activates the skin’s natural three-step healing process:

Inflammation

Injuring the skin triggers inflammation as its natural immune response, which is the first step in the creation of new tissue.

Proliferation

Granulation cells — which are the basis of new connective tissue — infiltrate the microchannels. New blood vessels also form to help with healing.

Remodeling

New skin rich in collagen and elastin fibers forms. These fibers have been found to join to form strong bonds that help create smoother, more even skin.

Why SkinPen® Is BEST for Acne Scars

With so many treatments out there that promise to eradicate acne scars, why choose SkinPen? Here are just a couple of reasons this treatment is considered one of the best for acne scars out there:

SkinPen is effective

Over 90% of patients treated with SkinPen said their acne scars improved markedly six months following treatment. Its efficacy, safety and reliability have been proven over the years through multiple peer-reviewed publications and 90 validation studies.

SkinPen is globally authorized

SkinPen Precision is the world’s first FDA-approved microneedling device. It has also received the CE mark and I.S.O. certification, which made it globally authorized and safe to use.

SkinPen is made in the US

The device is US-engineered and manufactured, which enhances its safety. The disposable cartridges, for example, were built to prevent fluid ingress and they come with a lock-out feature (to prevent accidental re-use).

SkinPen allows great precision

Every feature of this device was designed to allow providers to treat with maximum precision. From its ultra-sharp needles, uniform needle geometry, cordless design, consistent speed and ergonomic design. For you, this means predictable results and minimal risk of scarring and other complications.

SkinPen works on all skin types

Unlike many skin peels or certain forms of laser, SkinPen is suitable for all skin tones and types. There is no risk of post-inflammatory pigment changes and more serious skin reactions. Even sensitive skin types can benefit, with the only risks being temporary redness or dryness.

SkinPen can be paired with other treatments

SkinPen can be used in conjunction with chemical peels where greater efficiency is needed. Those with prominent and deep acne scars usually benefit from a combination of treatments.

Can Home Microneedling Be Just as Effective?

Usually no. At-home microneedling devices usually come with needles that are too small to correct acne scars. To treat acne scars, providers use needles between 1.5 and 2 mm in length. SkinPen goes even further at 2.75 mm.

Besides that, the devices sold for at-home use may not be as high quality as those used by providers. Improper use is also more likely, which can lead to problems down the line. For example, you could end up overusing the treatment, accidentally tear your skin or spread infections across the skin.

Find Out More About SkinPen® at U Laser Med Spa in La Jolla

At our La Jolla medical spa, we want to provide our clients with the best and most effective treatments for their unique skin concerns. If you are dealing with post-acne scarring and are looking for a safe and reliable treatment, we have been trained and are experienced in using SkinPen to correct acne scars on a wide range of skin types. Contact us today to learn more about this treatment and how it can help you.