Dr. Winona Wong, MD


Physician
Dermatology

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Aloha Dermatology, LLC
2525 South King Street Suite 304
Honolulu, Hawaii 96826 [MAP]
For an appointment , call (808) 941-3376
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DermaPen®

The Dermapen treatment successfully treats a variety of skin conditions, including

  • Stretch Marks
    • Wrinkles and other signs of aging skin
      • Acne scars
      • Surgical scars
      • Burn Scars
      • Hair loss / balding
      • Skin tightening
      • Skin rejuvenation

 
The Dermapen devices uses very small needles ("microneedles") to penetrate the topmost layer of skin (epidermis and dermis) to create small injuries. These microinjuries encourage the skin to re-grow and repair the skin through the development of new collagen

 Laser Resurfacing vs. Dermapen Treatments

The fractional laser is an aesthetic technology that is most similar to the Dermapen. A fractional laser “drills holes” in the skin to create a wound healing response and leaves normal tissue around the holes to be a reservoir for fibroblasts and stem cells to migrate into the holes.  Dermapen also makes holes in the skin to create a wound healing response and leaves normal tissue around the holes.

These technologies have similar results, but achieve them in very different ways, and result in very different side effects profiles.

 

How many Dermapen treatments are needed?

You should consult your medical professional to develop a treatment plan. The number of recommended treatments will vary depending on your aesthetic needs, treatment areas and skin type.

In general, 2-3 aggressive treatments will provide a noticeable difference. However, 5-6 treatments will show the most dramatic results. 

Repeat maintenance treatments may be recommended every 12-24 weeks.

What to Expect After Dermapen Treatment

Day 1: Redness and swelling in the area of treatment. The severity will vary depending on   how aggressively the treatment was performed.

Day 2: A reddish hue persists, similar to a moderate sunburn. Swelling may be more noticeable on the second day.

Day 3: Skin color returns to normal or may be slightly pink. Swelling subsides.

Your doctor or aesthetician may prescribe post procedure Elta Laser Enzyme gel after the procedure to help soothe, calm and protect the skin. Continue to use this for 2 days. Regular skincare can be resumed again after day 3

HOME CARE:

  • Wash the face thoroughly a few hours after treatment. Gently massage the face with tepid water (a shower can provide an easier ability to massage the face while washing at the same time), and remove all serum and other debris such as dried blood. This will improve the appearance of the skin and also allow for better subsequent absorption of Elta Laser Enzyme gel. Mineral makeup may be applied the following day.
  • For the first 1-3 days the skin will be very dry and feel tight. Frequent use the Elta Laser Enzyme gel will help alleviate this as well as moisturizers.
  • After 2-3 days patients can return to regular skin care products or as soon as it is comfortable to do so. Vitamin C products and products containing collagen boosting peptides are optimal and suggested.
  • Avoid alcohol based toners for 10-14 days.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 10 days if possible.
  • Do not apply chemical sunscreen the same day as treatment. Undesirable chemicals can penetrate if used in large amounts. A healing concealer with mineral sunblock (Lycogel) may be applied as directed by the doctor immediately after treatment if desired.

REMEMBER:

  • CLEAN – use a soothing cleanser or face wash with tepid water to cleanse the face for the following 48 hours and dry gently. Always make sure your hands are clean when touching the treated area
  • HEAL – Enzyme based skincare is recommended post treatment as its properties are perfect to help heal the skin and lessen irritation
  • HYDRATE – Following your Dermapen treatment as the skin may feel drier than normal. The Hyaluronic Acid ing the Laser Enzyme gel is an ideal ingredient to hydrate and restore the skin back to perfect balance
  • STIMULATE – In the days following your Dermapen treatment as the skin starts to regenerate, Vitamin C serum and collagen stimulating peptides are ideal to support and maintain the stimulation
  • MAKE-UP – It is recommended that make up is not applied for 12 hours after the procedure although your practitioner may be able to supply you with specialized mineral make-up that they feel would be suitable for use during this period. Do not apply any make-up with a make-up brush, especially if it is not clean
  • PROTECT – Immediately after the procedure apply a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with a SPF30. A chemical free sunscreen is highly recommended