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Written by Rosalie Orrostieta, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Medically Reviewed for Accuracy and Safety by Rosalie Orrostieta, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Last Updated: July 25, 2025
Hello, and welcome. If you’re here, chances are you’ve looked in the mirror and wished you could just hit ‘refresh’ on your skin. Maybe it’s the lingering memory of teenage acne, now etched into your cheeks as stubborn scars. Maybe it’s those fine lines that have started to stick around, or a general dullness that no amount of moisturizer seems to fix.
I’ve sat with hundreds of clients who have shared these exact same feelings. I remember one woman who told me she hadn’t left the house without a full face of foundation in over a decade because she was so self-conscious of her acne scars. Her story, and so many others like it, is why I am so passionate about what I do. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about giving you the confidence to feel beautiful and powerful in your own skin.
That’s why today, I want to talk to you, not just as a medical professional, but as your guide about one of the most transformative treatments I offer in Sarasota: SkinPen® Microneedling.
At a Glance: Your Quick Guide to SkinPen
For those who love the highlights, here’s what you need to know about this game-changing treatment.
- What It Is: SkinPen® Precision is the very first FDA-cleared microneedling device on the market. It’s designed to safely and effectively improve the look of facial acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles.
- How It Works: It uses tiny, sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers your body’s natural healing cascade, firing up the production of new collagen and elastin, the skin’s essential support structure.
- Top Benefits: You can expect a visible reduction in acne scars, a softening of fine lines, smaller-looking pores, and a smoother, more radiant skin texture.
- Downtime: This is a huge plus, it’s minimal! Most people experience 1 to 3 days of redness, much like a mild sunburn.
- Treatment Time: Quick and easy. A session usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
- How Many Sessions?: For the best, most lasting results, I typically recommend a series of 3 to 6 treatments, spaced about a month apart.
What is SkinPen® Precision? The Gold Standard in Microneedling
I know the word “needles” can sound intimidating, but let me put your mind at ease. Microneedling is a brilliantly simple concept. Think of it like aerating a lawn to help new, healthy grass grow. By creating these tiny, invisible channels in your skin, we’re essentially tilling the soil and signaling to your body: “It’s time to repair and rebuild here!”
Your body responds by flooding the area with growth factors, which in turn builds brand-new, high-quality collagen and elastin. This is what smooths out scars, fills in fine lines, and gives your skin that incredible, youthful bounce.
But here’s the crucial part: not all microneedling is created equal.
When I was deciding which technologies to bring into my practice, my top criteria were safety and proven results. SkinPen was the clear winner. Here’s why it stands apart:
- The First and Only FDA-Cleared Device: This is non-negotiable for me. FDA clearance means SkinPen has been rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness for treating facial acne scars. It’s not just a beauty gadget; it’s a medical-grade device.
- Unmatched Safety: The device uses a completely sterile, single-use needle cartridge for every single treatment. This eliminates any risk of cross-contamination. It also has a protective BioSheath that prevents any fluids from getting into the device itself. As a provider, this gives me and my clients complete peace of mind.
- Incredible Precision: The “Precision” in its name is there for a reason. I can control the depth of the needles with pinpoint accuracy, allowing me to tailor the treatment specifically to your skin concerns and the different areas of your face.
- Safe for Every Skin Tone: One of the most wonderful things about SkinPen is that it’s safe and effective for all skin types and tones, from the lightest to the darkest (Fitzpatrick I-VI). This isn’t always the case with light-based treatments like lasers, which can carry a risk of pigmentation issues for darker skin.
The Proven Benefits: What Can SkinPen Really Do for You?
It’s one thing for me to tell you how wonderful a treatment is, but I’m a firm believer in data. The clinical results for SkinPen are what truly sold me on its power.
Dramatically Reduces the Appearance of Acne Scars
This is SkinPen’s primary FDA-cleared indication, and the results are profound. It works by breaking up the old scar tissue and stimulating fresh, new collagen to smooth the skin’s surface from below. In the clinical trials, an incredible 90% of patients said they would recommend the treatment to their friends and family. When you see results that make people want to share them, you know you have something special.
Softens Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Whether it’s the “tech neck” lines from looking down at our phones or the fine lines that gather around our eyes and mouth, SkinPen is a fantastic solution. By kickstarting that collagen and elastin production, it helps to firm up the skin and soften those lines for a much smoother, more refreshed appearance.
Improves Overall Skin Texture and Minimizes Pores
Many of my clients come in complaining that their skin just looks “dull” or “rough.” SkinPen helps to refine the skin’s surface, leading to a smoother texture and making large pores appear significantly smaller. The glow you get a week or two after a treatment is real!
Is SkinPen Right for You? A Candid Conversation
This treatment is a workhorse for many, but it’s not for everyone. Your safety and satisfaction are my top priorities, so an honest consultation is always the first step.
SkinPen is likely a fantastic choice for you if:
- You’re bothered by the texture of atrophic acne scars.
- You want a natural way to address signs of aging like fine lines and skin laxity.
- You’re looking to improve your skin’s overall tone and texture for a healthy glow.
- You want a treatment with proven results and minimal social downtime.
However, we would need to postpone treatment if you have:
- Any active skin conditions like acne, rashes, or infections (including cold sores) in the treatment area.
- A history of skin cancer in the area.
- Been on medications like isotretinoin (Accutane) within the last six months.
- An allergy to stainless steel.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
The SkinPen Procedure: A Walkthrough of Your Appointment
I know that trying a new treatment can be nerve-wracking, so let me walk you through exactly what to expect.
- Prep & Numbing: First, we’ll cleanse your skin thoroughly. Then, I’ll apply a medical-grade topical numbing cream and let it sit for about 20-30 minutes. Many of my clients are nervous about the pain, but they are always pleasantly surprised. One recently laughed and said, “I was expecting it to be so much worse! It just felt like a weird electric toothbrush on my face.” The numbing cream makes the process very comfortable.
- The Treatment: Once your skin is numb, I’ll apply a special glide gel. Then, I’ll use the SkinPen device to pass over the treatment area in a gentle, methodical pattern. The whole process for the face takes only about 20-30 minutes.
- Finishing Touches: After the treatment is complete, we’ll apply soothing serums to help calm the skin and kickstart the healing process. I’ll give you a small take-home kit with everything you need for the first 24 hours.
Real Results: The Power of Before & After
Pictures truly are worth a thousand words. In my practice, I have a gallery of real client photos that showcase the power of SkinPen. We see cheeks once marked by deep acne scars become smooth and clear. We see fine lines around the mouth soften dramatically. These aren’t overnight miracles; they are the result of a series of treatments that empower the skin to heal itself. Each photo tells a story of renewed confidence.
Before and After Results
Downtime and Aftercare: Your Post-Treatment Game Plan
Alright, you’ve just finished your treatment and you’re glowing (and a little red!). Here’s your simple guide for the next few days.
- Day 0 (Immediately After): Your skin will look and feel like you have a mild to moderate sunburn. It will be pink and feel tight. This is normal and shows we’ve successfully stimulated the skin.
- First 24 Hours: The redness will continue. Your only job is to be gentle. Use only the products I provide you. Avoid direct sun, intense exercise, and makeup.
- Days 2-3: The redness will fade significantly, turning into a light pink. You might experience some mild peeling or flaking as your skin cells turn over. You can typically start wearing mineral makeup again on day 3.
- Day 4 and Beyond: You’re mostly back to normal! Your focus now is on hydration and sun protection. A gentle cleanser, a good moisturizer, and a daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ are your new best friends. The real magic is happening beneath the surface, and final results will continue to improve for months.
Frequently Asked Questions
I get these questions all the time, so let’s answer them head-on!
How many treatments will I need? For most concerns, a series of 3 treatments spaced one month apart is a great starting point. For deeper acne scarring, we may recommend up to 6 treatments for the best outcome.
Does SkinPen hurt? With the topical numbing cream, the treatment is very well-tolerated. Most clients describe it as a light vibration or a slightly scratchy sensation, but not painful.
What is the average cost? The cost can vary depending on your location and the provider’s expertise. Generally, you can expect a single session to be in the range of $350 – $750. We offer package pricing, which can provide significant savings.
When will I see results? You may notice an initial “glow” within the first week. However, the true results from collagen remodeling take time. You’ll see continued improvement for 3-6 months after your last treatment.
Why Your Provider Is the Most Important Choice You’ll Make
In today’s world, it seems like aesthetic treatments are available everywhere. But a tool is only as good as the hands that wield it. Your face is not the place to bargain hunt. Choosing a qualified, licensed medical professional who operates in a sterile environment is paramount for your safety and for achieving the results you deserve. An expert provider understands the anatomy of the skin and can customize the treatment perfectly for you, minimizing risks and maximizing benefits.
Begin Your Journey to Radiant Skin
The journey to skin you love is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires patience, consistency, and the right partner to guide you. SkinPen Microneedling is one of the most powerful, natural, and effective tools we have to truly rebuild the skin from the inside out.
At Rose Medical Aesthetics, our mission goes beyond just treating the skin; we are here to help you restore your confidence and feel incredible. It’s why I built this practice—to create a safe, expert, and welcoming space where you can achieve your aesthetic goals and truly shine.
If you’re ready to see what SkinPen can do for you, I invite you to schedule a consultation. Let’s talk about your story and build a plan together.
