Does microneedling (eg with Dr Pen), cause tears to the skin and enlarged pores?

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture. Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.

Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Microneedling—whether performed via Dr. Pen or another device—works by creating very tiny microchannels within the skin. This process stimulates collagen production within the skin, resulting in a smoother and younger-looking complexion. When properly applied, this technique should never leave large wounds, tears or noticeably large pores. For this reason, it’s crucial that you choose a qualified professional and avoid using DIY microneedling devices at home.


After your treatment, follow your provider’s skincare recommendations to avoid unnecessary side effects such as burning, stinging, redness, or other signs of irritation. Hope this helps.

Hello and thank you for your question.  Microneedling uses small needles to injure the skin , calling on the body to heal the injuries stimulating collagen, giving you tighter, smoother, rejuvenated skin.  Microneedling should not tear the skin or make your pores seem larger.  This procedure helps decrease the size of your pores.  When receiving medical grade microneedling treatments, make sure you are going to a qualified, experienced provider.  I would follow up with whom ever did your treatment and discuss your concerns.  Hope this helps, good luck to you!

Hello,Thank you for the question. Microneedling is a procedure that uses a motorized device to create microchannels to stimulate collagen. Even though many clinics carry similar devices, it is important to have the procedure performed by an experienced provider since technique matters. The device should not "sit" on the skin or drag since it can cause micro-tears. With proper technique, the treatment actually minimizes old scars and reduces the appearance of enlarged pores.Thank you,Chase Lay, MD

Thank you for your question. Microneedling should not cause tears to the skin or enlarged pores if it is performed correctly. What Microneedling does whether Dr. Pen is used or another FDA approved brand, it creates micro-channels and controlled damage that will allow your body to heal it by producing collagen and improving overall appearance of the skin.