SkinPEN is a medical-grade microneedling device that creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin's surface, triggering a natural wound-healing response that stimulates new collagen and elastin production. The result is a progressive improvement in skin texture, tone, pore appearance, and the superficial lines that reflect a loss of dermal density.
SkinPEN is effective across a broad range of skin concerns and skin types, and is frequently used at GhalMédica as part of a longer-term skin health program — either as a standalone treatment or in combination with other modalities to enhance and extend results.
Treatment time is approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Redness similar to a mild sunburn is common for 24 to 48 hours following treatment. A series of three to six sessions is typically recommended for optimal results, spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart.
Results vary. A consultation is required prior to treatment.
Book a ConsultationAvoid prolonged sun exposure and any form of tanning including self-tanning products and tanning beds. Active tans or sunburned skin significantly increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following microneedling. Daily SPF is essential in the weeks leading up to treatment.
Discontinue retinoids, tretinoin, and high-strength exfoliating acids — including AHAs and BHAs — as directed by your practitioner. These products thin the skin barrier and increase sensitivity, which can compromise healing following microneedling.
Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements where medically appropriate, including aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to your appointment to minimize bruising and swelling.
Arrive with thoroughly clean skin — no makeup, moisturizer, sunscreen, or active skincare on the treatment area. A topical numbing cream will be applied at the clinic prior to treatment. Stay well hydrated and eat a light meal before your appointment.
Pre-treatment instructions are based on Canadian dermatology and aesthetic medicine best practices. Individual instructions may vary — your GhalMédica practitioner will provide personalized guidance at consultation.
Expect redness and mild sensitivity similar to a sunburn — this is a normal part of the healing response. Apply only the gentle, fragrance-free products recommended by your practitioner. Do not apply makeup, active skincare, or anything not specifically approved for the immediate post-treatment period.
Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, steam rooms, swimming, and any activity causing significant perspiration. Avoid direct sun exposure entirely. Do not pick, scratch, or exfoliate the treated skin — the surface will feel rough and slightly uneven as it heals, which is normal.
Reintroduce active skincare products gradually and only as directed by your practitioner. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning without exception — UV exposure on healing skin significantly increases the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly in darker skin tones.
Results from SkinPEN develop progressively as new collagen is produced — improvements in texture, tone, and pore appearance typically become visible over 4 to 6 weeks following each session. Maintain daily SPF use. Complete your full recommended series for optimal results before assessing the final outcome.
Post-treatment instructions are based on Canadian dermatology and aesthetic medicine best practices. If you experience severe pain, blistering, or unusual skin changes following treatment, contact GhalMédica promptly.
SkinPEN is considered safe across a broad range of skin types, including darker skin tones, because it works mechanically rather than through heat or light energy that targets melanin. However, treatment parameters — needle depth, speed, and pass number — must be carefully calibrated for each patient. At GhalMédica, this assessment is made at consultation before any treatment is performed.
A series of three to six sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart is typically recommended, depending on the concern being addressed. Superficial texture concerns may respond after fewer sessions, while deeper scarring or significant collagen loss may require more. Your protocol is designed at consultation — not assumed in advance.
SkinPEN is a medical-grade device that operates at depths and speeds that at-home dermarollers cannot replicate. At-home devices typically reach 0.2 to 0.3mm — insufficient to stimulate meaningful collagen production. SkinPEN is calibrated to precise depths based on each patient's skin and concern, and is used in a sterile clinical environment with appropriate pre- and post-care. The two are not comparable in terms of efficacy or safety.
Yes. SkinPEN is frequently combined with other treatments at GhalMédica as part of a broader skin health program. It pairs well with SkinBoosters, chemical peels, and SkinCeuticals facial protocols. The sequencing and timing of combined treatments is always determined by your practitioner to ensure each modality can work optimally without compromising the other.
with a consultation.
Dr. Sonya Ghalehii, MD will assess your skin, understand your concerns, and recommend a treatment path built around you — not a menu.