Dermapen Microneedling at AARVA

The pen creates thousands of tiny channels in the skin. Each one is a controlled micro-injury that the skin repairs, and in doing so it produces new collagen and elastin. Over a course of sessions, that can show as smoother texture, softer scars and firmer skin. The channels close within hours, so the surface heals quickly.

It is used for acne scars, enlarged pores, rough texture, fine lines, crepey skin, stretch marks and surgical scars, on the face, neck, chest and body. On the scalp, it is used as part of a plan for some types of thinning hair, usually with PRP.

It is a good option if you want gradual change with only a short recovery. It is not suitable during pregnancy, with active inflamed acne, a skin infection or cold sore in the area, or if you tend to form raised (keloid) scars. If you have taken oral acne medication in the last six months, take medicines that thin the blood, or have a condition that affects healing, we discuss it at consultation.

Usually, with some care. Because microneedling does not rely on heat or light, it can usually be used across a wide range of skin tones. There is still a small risk of temporary darkening, so we adjust depth and aftercare for your skin and may suggest preparing the skin first.

Redness, a sunburn-like feeling, mild swelling and some dryness or flaking are expected for one to three days. Tiny pinpoint bleeding during treatment is normal. Less commonly, there can be bruising, breakouts, a flare of cold sores or temporary darkening. Infection and scarring are rare.

We apply numbing cream first. After that, most people describe a buzzing, scratchy sensation that is uncomfortable in places but tolerable. Bony areas such as the forehead and jawline, and deeper passes over scars, feel more intense.

Expect one to three days of redness, similar to mild sunburn, and a few days of dry skin. Most people return to work within a day or two. Avoid make-up for 24 hours, and exercise, swimming and saunas for 48 hours. Wear SPF 50 every day throughout your course.

Usually three to six, four to six weeks apart. Acne scars and stretch marks often need the upper end of that range. After that, a top-up session once or twice a year is often enough to hold the improvement.

Most people notice fresher, smoother skin a week or so after each session. Scars and stretch marks change more slowly, and we judge the full result about three months after your final session, once the new collagen has had time to settle.

Neither is better for everyone. Microneedling has shorter downtime and can suit a wider range of skin tones. A resurfacing laser such as UltraClear can often make a bigger change in fewer sessions, with more recovery. Some people benefit from both, for example laser for the deepest scars and microneedling to refine the rest.

It can help some people with pattern hair thinning, particularly alongside PRP or prescription treatment where appropriate, after consultation. It does not help every type of hair loss, which is why we look for the cause first.

Dermapen microneedling is available at Aarva on Midland Drive, Royal Sutton Coldfield, a short drive from Four Oaks, Walmley, Erdington, Lichfield, Tamworth and north Birmingham. Parking is available nearby.

Dermapen microneedling at Aarva is priced individually, with course pricing where it helps. PRP or polynucleotides added in the same visit are priced separately. Your written plan shows the total cost of the course before you agree to anything. Microneedling also earns points in the Aarva Circle.