The average cost of a PlasmaPen treatment is $956, but it can range from $400 to $2,000, according to 51 reviews from RealSelf members.
PlasmaPen devices by Louise Walsh International (LWI) stimulate the fibroblast cells to ramp up the production of collagen below the skin's surface, to reduce the appearance of fine lines and provide a mild skin tightening effect. It can also improve the appearance of acne scars.
While there are similar plasma fibroblasting devices that are marketed as plasma pens, cheaper knockoffs (which can be bought online for as little as $10) can produce inferior results or seriously damage skin, especially in the hands of an inexperienced provider. Ask your provider if they're using an LWI PlamaPen device to be sure you're getting your money's worth.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About PlasmaPen
RealSelf members give PlasmaPen procedures a 53% Worth It Rating, so it's definitely not worth it for everyone.
Those who are pleased with their result saw tighter eyelids, smoother skin, and subtle improvements in other signs of aging.
On the other end of the spectrum, some reviewers report devastating results, including horrific scarring and long-lasting hyperpigmentation.
Because this cosmetic procedure is so technique-dependent, it's important to find an experienced provider, who can ensure that you're a good candidate and will use a genuine LWI PlasmaPen.
Trading one cosmetic concern for a side effect that requires yet more treatments to fix is never cost-effective.
Skin tone is a major consideration with plasma fibroblasting. The treatment is not recommended for people with Fitzpatrick skin types IV through VI, due to a high risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation issues.
Home units, which can be purchased online for a fraction of the cost of a professional plasma fibroblasting treatment, have a much weaker energy output but can still cause bad scarring if not used correctly, says Dr. Connie Hiers, a plastic surgeon in San Antonio. "Please, please do not try to treat yourself," she cautions.
Finding a provider who has years (or even decades) of experience with a wide range of skin rejuvenation treatments will be your best bet for determining if the PlasmaPen will be worth it to you. If you have moderate to severe skin laxity, for example, a mini facelift may be a much better option for you, despite the higher cost.
Injectables like Botox or dermal fillers are also an option, if you're concerned about fine lines and wrinkles.
If you opt for PlasmaPen treatment, ask your provider for aftercare instructions, including how much downtime you'll need (based on the type of device they use). Good skin care can also maximize and protect your results.
Several factors influence the cost of a PlasmaPen treatment, including:
There are three LWI PlasmaPen devices—the Classic, and the more advanced (and powerful) Ultra and Platinum Pens.
The PlasmaPen Platinum, which offers the most dramatic skin rejuvenation and resurfacing, is intended for use by only highly experienced aestheticians and certified medical professionals, such as board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons.
As you'd expect, you'll pay more for the time and expertise of these more highly trained physicians.
As you're choosing your provider, remember that plasma fibroblasting (which causes microtrauma by turning electrical energy into molecular nitrogen) can come with side effects like scarring and hyperpigmentation. Choosing an experienced provider who knows how to reduce these risks could help maximize your results and avoid the cost of repairing new skin damage.
PlasmaPen treatment can be painstakingly slow, as each "dot" of energy is precisely placed in a tight, grid-like pattern. So as you'd expect, larger treatment areas tend to cost more. For example, treating forehead lines or neck lines will cost significantly more than just crow's feet.
The PlasmaPen can treat most areas of the face, including the forehead, eyes (the upper and lower eyelids and the crow's feet), lower and upper lips, smile lines, marionette lines, and lower face (for example, jowls along the jawline) and neck.
Fibroblast therapy can also treat skin conditions like seborrheic keratoses, stretch marks, and skin tags.
During your consultation, get a price quote for your specific treatment area, and ask your provider if they offer discounts or specials if you have multiple treatment areas.
You can expect to need one to three treatment sessions, depending on your skin concerns and goals. While subtle changes in tone, texture, and elasticity along the epidermis are often seen after one treatment, every patient is different.
Your provider will propose a treatment plan during your consultation, and the number of sessions will impact the price you're quoted.
You may pay more in major metro areas like New York and LA, which have a higher cost of living. However, those in a more suburban area won't always snag a deal on this treatment.
If there aren't many qualified providers offering PlasmaPen treatment but their time is in high demand, their prices may be higher, too.
Providers in an area with more competition for patients usually offer more attractive prices and specials.
Treatment with the PlasmaPen is considered an elective cosmetic procedure that doesn't qualify for insurance coverage.
If you're worried about the cost, talk to your provider about payment plans and financing options, or see if there's a less expensive treatment that could offer similar results.