Is micro needling with a pen or roller better?

Question

I had micro needling done at a dermatologist office with the eclipse micro pen; the cost was $300 for one treatment. After that I was doing some more research on micro needling and my esthetician said they do it at the spa with a derma roller for about $100. I have read conflicting reviews that each implement can tear the skin. What are your thoughts? Thank you!

Paul Lanfranchi, DO, FAOCOO · Answer

Great question! Thanks for providing a wonderful question. To keep it simple, most rollers provide a depth of .25 to .50mm. Micropens, like the Eclipse/Mesopen, can go deeper (1mm and higher) if need be. So it really depends on what you are treating. If you are having a treatment for general skin rejuvenation (with minimal downtime), then a depth of .25 or .50 is perfectly fine. If you are trying to make improvements with acne scarring, then you will need to go deeper (ie 1mm or greater). In this case the micropen is a better choice. Most medspas will only perform less aggressive treatments, so we can presume they are not going as deep. This is fine so long as the expectations and goals of treatment are communicated beforehand. I know it may sound odd to ask them how deep are the treatments, but I feel it is a very important question. Good luck!

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for the question. Increased depth can be achieved with the microneedling treatment compared to the roller. For best results, microneedling should be performed with PRP (platelet rich plasma). This combination yields improved skin texture, elasticity and diminishes scars. See an experienced oculofacial surgeon or dermatologist experienced with a variety of skin rejuvenation procedures. Good luck.

Renee Burke, MD · Answer

I would highly suggest going with the microneedling pen treatment vs. the dermaroller.  There are a few issues when it comes to using a dermaroller.  First of all, you are not able to control the depth of the roller.  It all depends on how hard someone is pushing on it which will not lead to a consistent treatment. Also, every time the roller moves, it is tearing your skin instead of puncturing.  The pen allows you to have a consistent and controlled treatment.  Also, the head of the pen is removed and replaced with each use.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

You are certainly going to get a more therapeutic microneedling session at a doctor's office as opposed to microneedling done by an aesthetician.Dr H Karamanoukian#RealSelf100 Member

Dustin Wilkes, DO · Answer

The end result depends much more on the experience of the person performing the procedure than the device he or she uses.  You can get to the same depth with both the pen and the roller, and therefore achieve the same results.  Both devices can potentially tear the skin in the wrong hands, but this is a rare adverse event. I prefer the pen, as I can get to narrower areas easier, but this is a personal preference only.  I hope this was helpful.Best,Dr. Wilkes

Is micro needling with a pen or roller better?

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Answer: Is micro needling with a pen or roller better?

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Is micro needling with a pen or roller better?

Answers (5)

Answer: Microneedling technique

Answer: Microneedling technique

Answer: Is micro needling with a pen or roller better?

Answer: Is micro needling with a pen or roller better?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Microneedling

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.