Microneedling With SkinPen: Benefits, Downtime and Aftercare

Published September 27, 2026 · Tru Essence Spa · 5 min read

Microneedling sounds more intimidating than it feels. The treatment uses very fine needles to create thousands of tiny, controlled channels in the skin, which prompts the skin to repair itself by producing new collagen and elastin. The result, over a series of sessions, is smoother texture, softer scars and a firmer, more even complexion. Here is how microneedling with SkinPen works and how to get the most from it.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a handheld device fitted with sterile, single-use needle cartridges. As the device moves across the skin, the needles create microscopic injuries at a depth selected by the provider. These tiny wounds close quickly, but they trigger the skin’s natural wound-healing response. Over the following weeks, the skin builds new collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for firmness, elasticity and a smooth surface.

About SkinPen

SkinPen was the first microneedling device to receive FDA clearance, for improving the appearance of facial acne scars in adults. Its sterile, disposable cartridges and consistent needle action make treatment precise and hygienic. At Tru Essence, microneedling is offered as the TRU SkinPen facial, with the option of adding platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a treatment sometimes called the “vampire facial.”

What Microneedling Can Help

• Acne scars, especially rolling and boxcar scars
• Uneven skin texture and roughness
• Enlarged-looking pores
• Fine lines and early wrinkles
• Loss of firmness and a general lack of glow
• Some types of scars and stretch marks (often requiring more sessions)

Microneedling is generally suitable for a wide range of skin tones, because it does not rely on heat or light that targets pigment. That makes it a popular option for people who are not good candidates for some laser treatments.

Microneedling With PRP

When PRP is added, a small amount of your blood is drawn and processed to concentrate the platelets, which release growth factors involved in tissue repair. The PRP is applied to the skin during or immediately after microneedling so it can enter the fresh micro-channels. Many providers use it to boost healing and results, particularly for scarring and overall rejuvenation. Because PRP comes from your own blood, allergic reactions to it are very unlikely.

What to Expect During Treatment

1. Consultation and skin check. Your provider confirms that the skin is clear of active infection or inflamed breakouts and reviews your medications and history.
2. Numbing. A topical anesthetic cream is applied for comfort.
3. Treatment. After cleansing, a glide serum is applied and the SkinPen is moved across the skin in sections. Most people describe a vibrating, light scratching sensation; bony areas can feel more sensitive.
4. Soothing finish. A calming product is applied. If PRP is included, it is applied at this stage.

The procedure itself usually takes about 30 minutes, with additional time for numbing.

Downtime and Recovery

Microneedling has relatively short downtime. A typical recovery looks like this:

• Day 1: the skin looks red and feels warm and tight, similar to a moderate sunburn.
• Days 2–3: redness fades to pink; the skin may feel dry or rough.
• Days 3–5: light flaking is possible as the skin renews, and most people are comfortable returning to normal activities with makeup once the provider allows it.

Some people experience mild swelling or small spots of pinpoint bleeding during treatment, which resolve quickly.

Aftercare for the Best Results

• Keep your skin care simple for several days: a gentle cleanser, a soothing moisturizer and nothing that stings.
• Avoid makeup for at least the first day, or as your provider advises, to keep the micro-channels clean.
• Stop retinoids, exfoliating acids, vitamin C serums and scrubs until your provider says it is safe to restart.
• Protect your skin from the sun with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and a hat; avoid tanning.
• Skip swimming pools, saunas and intense workouts for a day or two.
• Use a clean pillowcase and avoid touching your face.

Is Microneedling Painful?

Most clients find microneedling very manageable. The topical numbing cream takes the edge off, and the sensation is usually described as light scratching or vibration rather than sharp pain. Areas over bone, such as the forehead, upper lip and jawline, can feel a little more intense, and your provider can adjust depth and pace for your comfort. Afterwards, the skin feels warm and sensitive, similar to a sunburn, for a day or so.

How Many Sessions Will You Need?

Collagen builds gradually, so microneedling is usually done as a series. Many plans involve three to six sessions spaced about four to six weeks apart, depending on the concern. Deeper acne scarring often needs more sessions than general rejuvenation. You may notice a healthy glow within a week of the first session, but the most meaningful improvement in texture and scarring develops over several months as new collagen matures.

Who Should Wait or Avoid Microneedling

Microneedling may need to be postponed or avoided if you have active acne breakouts, cold sores or other infections in the treatment area, eczema or psoriasis flares on the face, a tendency to form keloid scars, or if you have recently used isotretinoin. It is also commonly avoided during pregnancy. Share your full medical history so your provider can decide whether microneedling is right for you.

Professional Treatment vs. At-Home Rollers

At-home derma rollers use shorter needles and are not a substitute for professional microneedling. Reusing rollers can introduce bacteria, and improper technique can tear the skin rather than creating clean vertical channels. Professional devices like SkinPen use sterile, single-use cartridges and adjustable depth under trained hands, which makes treatment safer and more effective.

Combining Microneedling With Other Treatments

Microneedling pairs well with other skin treatments in a long-term plan. A series of chemical peels can target pigmentation and brightness, while exfoliating facials maintain smoothness between sessions. Injectables such as Botox and fillers address lines and volume loss that microneedling cannot. Your provider will space treatments appropriately so the skin has time to heal.

Conclusion

Microneedling with SkinPen harnesses your skin’s own repair process to improve acne scars, texture, pores and fine lines, with only a few days of visible recovery. Results build over a series of treatments and continue to improve for months afterwards. To see whether TRU SkinPen, with or without PRP, is right for your skin, visit our Cosmetic Spa page or book a consultation.