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What Exactly Is SkinPen® Microneedling?

A woman with dark brown hair closes her eyes as she receives a SkinPen® microneedling facial treatment.

You’ve invested in serums, masks, and moisturizers, yet those acne scars, fine lines, or uneven patches still show up in the mirror. When topical products hit their limit, microneedling often becomes the next step in the journey to healthier-looking skin.

But here’s what many don’t realize: there’s more than one type of microneedling, and the differences can dramatically impact your results. Among the most advanced options available today is SkinPen Microneedling, a treatment that goes deeper—safely, precisely, and effectively. So, how does it compare to other microneedling treatments? Let’s break it down.

What Is SkinPen Microneedling?

SkinPen microneedling can best be thought of as your skin’s reset button. This minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment uses a precision-controlled device with fine, medical-grade needles to create thousands of tiny microchannels on the skin’s surface. While that might sound intense, it’s actually the key to jumpstarting your skin’s natural healing process.

These micro-injuries stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, the building blocks of smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin. The results are a gradual yet noticeable transformation in tone, texture, and overall vibrancy.

SkinPen is clinically proven to improve the appearance of:

  • Acne scars
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Enlarged pores
  • Uneven skin tone
  • Dull or rough texture

Most people see the best results with a series of treatments spaced about four weeks apart, tailored to their skin’s unique needs and goals.

Is SkinPen and Microneedling the Same?

This is a common question and the short answer is: not exactly.

While all microneedling treatments work by creating micro-injuries to stimulate collagen, the tools used make a significant difference in terms of safety, precision, and results. Think of it this way: all cars can get you from point A to point B, but a luxury vehicle provides a smoother, more reliable ride. 

Here’s how SkinPen Microneedling differs from other microneedling treatments:

1. Backed By the FDA

SkinPen isn’t just another microneedling device—it’s the first and only FDA-cleared option for treating acne scars and neck wrinkles. That means it’s been thoroughly tested for both safety and effectiveness, something most at-home rollers and non-medical devices can’t claim.

2. Designed for Safety

Each SkinPen treatment uses a sterile, single-use needle cartridge to eliminate the risk of cross-contamination. Unlike reusable tools that may not be properly sanitized, SkinPen prioritizes hygiene to keep your skin protected from potential infection.

3. Customized Precision

One-size-fits-all doesn’t work for skin. With SkinPen, your provider can adjust the needle depth to precisely target different layers of the skin, delivering powerful results with minimal trauma and downtime. That kind of precision just isn’t possible with manual rollers or lower-quality tools.

4. Clinical Results

This isn’t just hype. In clinical studies, 90% of SkinPen users said they’d recommend it to others. The treatment delivers visible improvements that build over time, supported by science and not just word-of-mouth.

What to Expect During a SkinPen Microneedling Session

Trying something new for your skin can feel a little intimidating, but SkinPen Microneedling is designed to be a comfortable, straightforward process from start to finish. Here’s how a session typically goes:

  1. Consultation: The journey to clear, beautiful skin always begins with a conversation. Before anything else, you’ll sit down with a licensed provider to chat about your skin’s current condition and what you’d like to improve.
  2. Prep & Numbing: To keep you comfortable, a topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area. By the time the session starts, most people barely feel a thing—just a slight vibration or light pressure.
  3. Microneedling: Using the SkinPen device, your provider will gently pass the tool over your skin, creating thousands of microchannels that trigger your body’s natural collagen response. The process takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
  4. Post-Care: After treatment, your skin might be a little red or feel warm, like a mild sunburn, but that usually fades within a day or two. You’ll be given a soothing skincare routine to follow, helping your skin heal and glow.

Most people return to their normal day within 24–48 hours, with only minimal downtime and even better results on the way.

Where Can You Go for SkinPen Microneedling That Delivers Real Results?

When it comes to microneedling, the provider behind the treatment matters just as much as the device itself. At SkinMD Chicago, you’ll be treated by expert providers who deliver safe, effective results using the FDA-cleared SkinPen system.

Unlike spas or clinics that offer generic microneedling, SkinMD performs each session in a clinical setting that upholds the highest standards of hygiene, precision, and personalized care. Treatments are carefully tailored to your skin’s needs, whether you’re targeting acne scars, softening fine lines, or restoring a smoother, more even complexion.

With advanced training, medical-grade tools, and a focus on long-term skin health, SkinMD Chicago delivers more than just a treatment—it delivers visible, lasting results.

​​What’s Next on Your Skin Renewal Journey?

SkinPen makes it possible to achieve noticeable, lasting improvements without surgery, harsh chemicals, or extended downtime, fitting into your real life and delivering results that speak for themselves. Now that you know how SkinPen outperforms other microneedling treatments, the next step is simple: choose a provider who offers both expert care and advanced technology. At SkinMD Chicago, you’ll find both, along with personalized treatment plans that bring out your best skin yet.

SkinPen Microneedling Near Chicago: Request a Consultation

If you’re ready to experience the difference SkinPen can make, there’s no better place to start than SkinMD Chicago. With locations in Orland Park, Evergreen Park, and Chicago, expert care is never far from home. Each SkinPen treatment is performed by licensed medical professionals in a clinical setting, ensuring safety, precision, and results you can trust. 

Don’t wait to start your skin transformation. Schedule your consultation today and discover why SkinMD Chicago is a top destination for SkinPen Microneedling in the greater Chicago area.

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