Ashlyns MediSpa, Epping Road, North Weald, Epping, CM16 6RZ

What to expect Before, During, & After your SkinPen® Microneedling Treatment

If you’re looking to improve the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, or uneven skin texture, SkinPen® microneedling is a safe and effective treatment that stimulates your skin’s natural healing process. At Ashlyns Medispa, we understand that trying a new treatment can feel daunting, so we’ve put together this guide to explain exactly what you can expect before, during, and after your SkinPen treatment.

What is SkinPen Microneedling?

SkinPen® is the first FDA-cleared microneedling device designed to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and overall skin texture. By creating thousands of tiny, controlled micro-channels in the skin, SkinPen stimulates your body’s natural production of collagen and elastin, helping to reveal smoother, firmer, and healthier-looking skin over time.

The treatment is suitable for most skin types and can be performed on the face, neck, décolletage, and other areas where skin rejuvenation is desired.

Pre-treatment preparations

  • Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning for at least one week.
  • Stop using retinol, retinoids, exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs), or other active skincare products 3–5 days before treatment.
  • Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Arrive with clean skin, free from makeup where possible.
  • Inform your practitioner if you have any active skin infections, cold sores, or are taking medications that may affect healing.

During your consultation, your practitioner will assess your skin, discuss your concerns, and create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your goals.

During Your SkinPen Treatment

A SkinPen treatment is straightforward and typically takes around 45–60 minutes, depending on the treatment area.

Here’s what happens:

Step 1: Skin Preparation

Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed before a topical numbing cream is applied to maximise your comfort.

Step 2: Microneedling

Once your skin is numb, the SkinPen device is gently moved across the treatment area. The tiny sterile needles create microscopic channels in the skin while stimulating collagen production.

Most patients describe the sensation as a mild vibration with slight scratching, but it is generally very well tolerated.

Step 3: Finishing the Treatment

Once completed, calming and hydrating products are applied to soothe the skin and support the healing process.

Immediately After Treatment

It’s completely normal for your skin to appear:

  • Red (similar to mild sunburn)
  • Warm or tight
  • Slightly swollen
  • Sensitive to touch

These effects are expected and usually settle within 24–72 hours.

Aftercare: The First Few Days

Following the correct aftercare instructions is essential for achieving the best results.

For the first 24 hours:

  • Avoid touching your face unnecessarily.
  • Do not wear makeup.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise.
  • Avoid excessive sweating.
  • Keep your skin clean and hydrated.

For 48–72 hours:

  • Avoid direct sunlight.
  • Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 every day.
  • Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, and swimming pools.
  • Avoid exfoliating products, retinol, vitamin C, or active skincare until advised by your practitioner.

Use only the recommended gentle skincare products provided or recommended by your clinic.

When Will I See Results?

Some patients notice a brighter complexion within a week, but collagen production takes time.

Typically:

  • Initial improvements: 7–14 days
  • Continued improvement: 4–12 weeks
  • Best results: Around 3 months after treatment

For optimal skin rejuvenation, a course of 3–6 treatments, spaced approximately four weeks apart, is often recommended.

What Skin Concerns Can SkinPen Treat?

SkinPen microneedling can help improve:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Acne scars
  • Surgical scars
  • Enlarged pores
  • Uneven skin texture
  • Mild pigmentation
  • Sun damage
  • Overall skin tone and radiance

Because the treatment stimulates your own collagen production, results develop naturally and continue to improve over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SkinPen painful?

Most patients experience only mild discomfort thanks to the numbing cream applied before treatment.

How long is the recovery?

Most redness settles within 24–72 hours, although this varies depending on your skin.

Can I wear makeup afterwards?

It’s best to wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup to allow your skin to begin healing.

How many treatments will I need?

This depends on your skin concerns. Many clients benefit from a course of three to six treatments for optimal results.

Ready to Transform Your Skin?

SkinPen microneedling is an excellent treatment for anyone looking to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of scars, and stimulate natural collagen production without surgery.

If you’d like to find out whether SkinPen is right for you, book a consultation with our experienced team at Ashlyns Medispa. We’ll create a personalised treatment plan to help you achieve healthier, smoother, and more radiant skin.

Book your consultation here and take the first step towards naturally rejuvenated skin.

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