Cosmetic Dermatology
SkinPen® Microneedling
SkinPen® is an FDA-cleared microneedling device designed to safely and effectively stimulate collagen and elastin production. Using fine, medical-grade needles, it creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin that trigger the body's natural healing response and the regeneration of fresh, healthy tissue.
Microneedling improves the appearance of acne scars, surgical scars, fine lines, enlarged pores, stretch marks, and uneven texture — without lasers or chemicals, and with little downtime.
At Avarbock Chamorro Dermatology, microneedling is performed exclusively by Dr. Paola Chamorro, with each treatment thoughtfully tailored to the individual needs and goals of the patient. It can be combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for accelerated healing and enhanced results.
What microneedling can do
Microneedling is one of the most effective non-surgical ways to rebuild collagen and improve skin quality over time.
Smoother texture
Refines rough, uneven texture and softens the appearance of enlarged pores.
Scar improvement
Helps remodel acne scarring, surgical scars, and stretch marks over a series of treatments.
Firmer skin
Stimulates new collagen and elastin for firmer, more resilient skin.
Softer fine lines
Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and early wrinkles.
All skin tones
Because it uses no heat or light, microneedling is safe across the full range of skin types.
Minimal downtime
Most patients have redness resembling a mild sunburn for one to three days.
What to expect
Consultation
We review your concerns, examine your skin, discuss the expected benefits, potential risks, recovery, and expectations, and determine whether microneedling is the right treatment for you. If recommended, your microneedling treatment will be scheduled at a future appointment.
Numbing
A topical anesthetic is applied for approximately 30 minutes so the treatment is comfortable. Prior to the procedure, the numbing cream is wiped off and the treatment area is cleaned well.
Treatment
The SkinPen® is passed over the treatment area in a controlled pattern. A full face takes approximately 30 minutes.
Days 1–3
Expect redness and mild swelling similar to a sunburn. Most patients are presentable within 24 to 72 hours.
Days 3–5
You may develop mild flaking or micro-scabbing that sheds naturally.
Weeks 4–8
Collagen remodeling continues after each session, with results building over the weeks that follow.
Included with every treatment
Premium Biocellulose Masque
Every patient receives a SkinPen® Premium Biocellulose Masque immediately after treatment. The masque sits on the face for 10 to 15 minutes to quickly soothe, cool, and calm the skin before you leave the office.
- Quickly soothes, cools, and calms the skin immediately after treatment
- Reduces the warmth and discomfort that can follow a microneedling session
- Safe for all skin types, Fitzpatrick I–VI: normal, dry, oily, and sensitive
- Applied in the office by your provider and removed before you leave
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Microneedling
Does it hurt?
Most people describe microneedling as mild discomfort, light scratching, or a vibrating pressure rather than sharp pain. When a topical numbing cream is used, patients typically rate the sensation as a 2 to 4 out of 10.
How many treatments will I need?
Improvement in texture and brightness can be visible after one treatment, but a series is recommended.
- For fine lines and texture, typically 3–4 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
- For acne scarring, 4–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart.
- Maintenance sessions are recommended every 3–6 months.
How long is the downtime?
Redness and mild swelling generally resolve within 1 to 3 days.
Is it safe for darker skin tones?
Yes. Microneedling uses no heat or light energy, which makes it one of the safest resurfacing options across all skin types.
How can I prepare for my microneedling appointment?
To ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of complications, please follow the guidelines below at least 5–7 days prior to treatment:
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds for 10–14 days. No sunburns, active tanning, or active spray tan.
- Discontinue over-the-counter retinols, prescription-strength retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin, tazarotene), AHAs/BHAs (glycolic acid, salicylic acid), benzoyl peroxide, and other exfoliating agents.
- Avoid waxing, depilatory creams, or electrolysis.
- No injectable treatments (Botox, fillers) for at least 14 days before microneedling.
- Stop using blood-thinning medications or supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) unless prescribed.
- Let us know if you have a history of cold sores. You may be prescribed an antiviral prior to treatment.
- Arrive with clean skin — no makeup, lotion, or sunscreen.
- You may bring a clean, wide-brimmed hat to your appointment to protect your skin from the sun on the way home.
What is the aftercare?
- Hands off: the most important thing in the first 24 hours after SkinPen® is to keep your skin clean and untouched. Anything that comes into contact with your skin needs to be clean — whether it is your hands or the fabric of your pillowcase. Do not apply any topical products unless specifically recommended by your provider.
- Makeup: no makeup for 72 hours after the procedure.
- Stay cool: avoid heavy exercise, hot showers, saunas, and any activity that makes you sweat for 72 hours.
- Avoid harsh ingredients: until the skin has fully healed, approximately 1 week:
- Retinoids (prescription, over-the-counter, or cosmetic)
- Exfoliating acids (BHAs/AHAs: salicylic, glycolic, or lactic acid)
- Topical acne treatments such as benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid
- Hydrate: use only gentle, approved products such as a bland hyaluronic acid serum or a mild moisturizer.
- Sun protection: stay out of direct sun and wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher along with a wide-brimmed hat.
- No picking: let any flaking or micro-scabbing shed naturally without scrubbing or peeling.
- Wait for other treatments: postpone facials, lasers, or cosmetic injections for at least 2 weeks.
Can it be combined with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Yes, and it is a common pairing. PRP is applied as the microneedling passes so the growth factors reach the deeper layers of the skin through the newly created channels.
If your question isn't answered here, call the office at (305) 306-9470 and we will walk you through it.