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SkinPen® Precision Indications

SkinPen® Precision Microneedling System is a medical device intended to treat facial acne scars in adults aged 22 years or older.  SkinPen® Precision Microneedling System is also intended to help improve the cosmetic appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks, surgical scars, enlarged pores and pigmentation conditions (dyschromia).

Pigmentation Conditions

Solar lentigines develop as a result of excessive melanin production, triggered by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight or tanning beds.

Crown Aesthetics, data on file ; Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS).

Mechanism of Action:

  • Stimulate keratinocyte turnover and normalize pigment activity of melanocytes in hyperpigmented areas.
  • This process occurs at the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ).
  • The DEJ and shallow dermis are the targeted depths for microneedling, where microchannels are formed (as shown by arrows).

Courtesy of Rosenpark Research, Dr. Sonja Sattler

Mottled Hyperpigmented Lesions/Patches

  • A common skin condition with an unknown exact cause.
  • It is associated with both sun exposure and hormonally activated melanocytes, which cause an uneven increase in facial melanin by stimulating melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH).
  • Although more common in individuals with higher pigmentation, it can affect all skin types.

V. Sheth et al, JAAD (2010) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2010.12.046

Mechanism of Action:

  • Stimulates keratinocyte turnover and helps “restore” normal pigment activity in melanocytes within hyperpigmented areas.
  • This process takes place at the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ).
  • The DEJ and shallow dermis are the targeted depths for microneedling, where microchannels are formed (as indicated by arrows).

 Cassiano et al., Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology | Volume 85 | Issue 6 | November-December 2019

 

Epidermal melanin density in melasma before procedure

Reduction in epidermal melanin density 1 week after microneedling procedure

Hypopigmented patches

  • Hypopigmented patches develop when pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) die or cease melanin production.

  • Affected areas of the skin become lighter or white, but the exact cause of melanocyte failure or death remains unclear.

  • Potential contributing factors include:

    • An autoimmune disorder affecting the immune system
    • Genetic predisposition (family history)
    • Triggering events, such as stress, severe sunburn, or skin trauma (e.g., chemical exposure)

Mechanism of Action:

  • Stimulate the activation, migration, and/or proliferation of melanocytes into hypopigmented areas at the dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ), targeting the shallow dermis depth.
  • Mechanical trauma from microneedling encourages melanocyte migration from pigmented to unpigmented areas.
  • Microneedling may enhance the number of pigment cells and promote increased pigment production.
  • Research suggests that six or more treatment sessions may be required to observe noticeable improvements.

 

Ebrahim et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;00:1–8

Microchannels provide space for melanocytes to migrate into non-pigment areas

Fernandes, D. OralL, maxillofacial Surg Clin 2005; 17:51-63