SkinPen® Precision Microneedling
SkinPen Microneedling & PRP in Andersonville, Chicago
Restoring smooth, radiant skin doesn’t always require invasive laser resurfacing or surgery. SkinPen® Precision is the first FDA-cleared microneedling device designed to naturally stimulate collagen and elastin production. Whether you want to smooth acne scars, refine large pores, or upgrade your treatment with your body’s own natural growth factors via Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), our Clark Street clinic offers tailored collagen induction protocols for every skin type.
The Science: How Microneedling Works
1. Controlled Micro-Injuries (SkinPen®)
SkinPen® uses medical-grade, sterile needle cartridges to create thousands of precise, microscopic channels per second in the dermis. This intentional, controlled micro-trauma triggers your body’s natural wound-healing cascade without causing heat damage or scarring.
2. The Body’s Healing Cascade
Inflammation: Immune systems clear debris and increase blood flow.
Proliferation: New tissue, collagen type III, and elastin fibers rapidly rebuild the dermal matrix.
Remodeling: Temporary collagen upgrades to permanent, dense Collagen Type I, tightening and smoothing the skin surface.
3. The Supercharged PRP Advantage (“Liquid Gold”)
When paired with PRP, a small sample of your blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to isolate concentrated blood plasma loaded with active growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF).
Applied topically during and immediately after microneedling, these growth factors sink deep into the micro-channels to dramatically accelerate cellular repair, trigger rapid angiogenesis (new blood vessels), and maximize collagen density.
SkinPen® vs. SkinPen® + PRP: Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | Standard SkinPen® Microneedling | SkinPen® Microneedling + PRP |
| Primary Goal | General collagen induction, mild texture smoothing | Accelerated healing, deep scar remodeling, maximum radiance |
| Key Active Component | Medical-grade hydrating topical gel | Your concentrated blood plasma rich in growth factors |
| Best For | Early aging signs, fine lines, maintenance, enlarged pores | Stubborn acne scars, deep wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, sensitive skin |
| Recovery Time | Pink/redness for 24–48 hours | Faster recovery: PRP speeds cell turnover and reduces redness |
| Results Timeline | Visible improvement in 4–6 weeks | Faster onset of glow, compounding over 3–6 months |
Step 1: Numbing & Preparation (30 Minutes Prior) A clinical-grade topical numbing cream is applied to ensure complete comfort throughout the procedure. If adding PRP, our trained specialist performs a quick blood draw at this time to prepare your growth factors.
Step 2: Precision Microneedling Session (30 Minutes) The SkinPen® glides smoothly across targeted areas such as the face, neck, or décolletage, delivering uniform, customizable micro-punctures precisely calibrated to your skin’s thickness and specific concerns.
Step 3: PRP Infusion & Soothing Protection (Immediate Post-Care) If opting for PRP, your concentrated growth factors are massaged deep into the newly created micro-channels for maximum absorption, followed by a post-procedure soothing balm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SkinPen® microneedling safe for all skin tones?
Yes! Unlike many lasers that target skin pigment (melanin) and carry risks of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation for deeper skin tones, SkinPen® works strictly through mechanical micro-injuries. It is clinically proven safe and effective for all skin types (Fitzpatrick scales I through VI).
How many treatments will I need?
While a single session provides a noticeable glow, optimal remodeling (especially for acne scarring or deeper lines) typically requires a series of 3 to 6 treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart.
What is the downtime after SkinPen® or PRP?
Downtime is minimal. Immediately after treatment, your skin will look and feel like a mild to moderate sunburn. Most redness subsides within 24 to 48 hours. Adding PRP noticeably speeds up this recovery phase due to its concentrated anti-inflammatory properties.
Can I wear makeup after my session?
We recommend keeping your face clean and applying only the provided post-procedure soothing products for the first 24 hours. Mineral makeup and regular broad-spectrum sunscreen can typically be resumed after 24 hours.
Ready to Look and Feel Your Best?
Begin your personalized skincare or body treatment journey today. Our expert team is here to guide you—every step of the way.