Dermapen in Acne Scar Treatment
Acne is a common skin problem for many individuals from adolescence to adulthood. However, the scars left behind after active pimples heal require a long-term struggle, creating both physical and psychological effects on the individual. These scars, which are formed as a result of the faulty repair of damage in the lower layers of the skin (dermis), manifest themselves as pits (atrophic), ripples, or uneven color. Although laser treatments or chemical peels have traditionally been used to solve this problem, with the development of technology in recent years, the “Microneedling” method, also known as Dermapen, has become one of the gold standards in acne scar treatment.
Especially in a region like Izmir, which has a high number of sunny days, aggressive laser treatments that completely peel off the top layer of skin (epidermis) and require long recovery times may not be applicable in every season or may carry a risk of discoloration. At this point, Dermapen offers a controlled mechanism that sends “repair” signals under the skin without completely removing the skin’s barrier. This method, which perfectly aligns with the active social life and preference for “natural healing” of Izmir residents, aims to reduce the depth of scars, tighten pores, and smooth skin texture by stimulating the skin’s own collagen production.
Dermapen and the “Controlled Damage” Principle
The scientific principle underlying Dermapen treatment is “Percutaneous Collagen Induction Therapy.” This complex term actually means triggering the body’s own self-healing power.
The tip of the Dermapen device contains sterile, single-use micro-needles. When the device is activated, these needles penetrate and exit the skin at a very high speed, creating hundreds of microscopic channels per second. These channels are invisible to the naked eye, and bleeding is minimal. However, our brain perceives these micro-entry points as “injuries.” The body activates its defense mechanism, saying, “There is damage here, I must repair it immediately.”
Repair Process: Growth factors and fibroblast cells that rush to the area rapidly begin to produce new collagen and elastin fibers. Normally, collagen fibers in the area where acne scars are located are irregular and hardened (fibrotic tissue). Dermapen needles physically break down this hardened tissue and allow fresh, regular, and healthy tissue to be woven in its place. As a result, the base of the sunken scars rises, and the skin surface gradually flattens. Which Acne Scars is it Effective On?
Acne scars are not uniform, and the effectiveness of Dermapen may vary depending on the type of scar.
1. Rolling Scars
These are scars that create waves in the skin, with soft, transitional edges. Dermapen helps tighten the skin and reduce waves by loosening the bonds under these scars and increasing overall collagen production. It is one of the scar groups that responds best.
2. Boxcar Scars
These are sharp, box-shaped depressions. Dermapen is effective in softening the edges of these scars and filling in the base. In deep boxcar scars, supporting the treatment with PRP or mesotherapy increases success.
3. Ice Pick Scars
These are very deep and narrow (like pinholes) scars. Because these scars penetrate deep into the dermis, it is difficult to completely correct them with Dermapen alone. They usually need to be combined with methods such as TCA Cross (acid treatment). Dermapen, however, improves overall skin quality and reduces the appearance of these scars.
Dermapen Protocols and Seasonal Management in Izmir
When planning acne scar treatment in Izmir, the “Sun” factor is the most important variable.
Although Dermapen makes the skin less sensitive compared to ablative (peeling) lasers, the skin is vulnerable to UV rays during the first 24-48 hours when the micro-channels are open. Treatment protocols for patients in Izmir are generally arranged as follows:
- Winter Period (October-April): Deeper, more intensive sessions can be applied.
Summer Period (May-September): Treatment can be interrupted or more superficial (protective and maintenance) sessions can be performed by reducing needle depth. However, in any case, it is essential that the patient has the discipline to use high-factor sunscreen.
The Power of Combined Treatments: What Can Be Done with Dermapen?
In acne scar treatment, Dermapen alone is a powerful weapon, but its effect is amplified with “auxiliary forces”. Thousands of channels opened during microneedling increase the absorption of products applied to the skin by 200-300%. Dermapen + PRP (Vampire Face Lift)
Growth factors (PRP) obtained from the person’s own blood are sent to the deepest parts of the skin through the channels opened by Dermapen. This increases the healing rate and maximizes collagen production. Dermapen + Salmon DNA / Mesotherapy
HüSalmon DNA, which promotes skin renewal, or special mesotherapy cocktails used in scar treatment, when combined with Dermapen, accelerate the scar filling process.
Comparison of Methods in Acne Scar Treatment
The most common dilemma for patients is whether to have Dermapen or Laser treatment. The following table summarizes the differences:
| Feature | Dermapen (Micro-Needling) | Fractional Laser (CO2 / Er:YAG) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism of Action | Mechanical micro-damage (Needle). | Heat damage and peeling (Thermal). |
| Healing Time | 1-3 days redness. | 5-7 days crusting and redness. |
| Pain Level | Mild (Anesthetic) (Comfortable with cream). | Medium/High. |
| Risk of Scarring (PIH) | Low (Safe for dark skin tones). | High (Especially risky for dark skin tones). |
| Social Life | You can return to work the next day. | A few days of rest at home may be necessary. |
Application Process and Number of Sessions
Acne scar treatment is a process that requires patience. It is not biologically possible for scars to completely disappear in a single session.
Generally, courses of 4 to 8 sessions applied 3-4 weeks apart are recommended. Although skin radiance and pore tightening are visible after the first session, the filling and reduction of scar depth is a cumulative effect. Since collagen production continues over months, the true result of the treatment becomes clearest 3-6 months after the course of treatment is complete.
Who is it suitable for?
Dermapen is suitable for patients who do not have active acne (inflammatory pimples) but have scars from the past. If there is active acne on the face, acne treatment should be done first, and then scar treatment should be considered, as the needling procedure may spread bacteria. It is also not suitable for those using blood thinners, those with a history of keloids, and those with active skin infections.
Result: Step-by-Step Towards Smooth Skin
In summary; “Dermapen in Acne Scar Treatment” is a reliable method that treats scars using the skin’s own repair mechanism, has few side effects, and a short recovery time. The fact that it heals the skin without peeling, burning, or thinning is a great advantage for Izmir’s climate and social life dynamics.
In Izmir, if you want to erase the traces of the past on your skin and achieve a smoother texture, Dermapen treatment is an effective option. However, remember that the best results are possible with a plan by a specialist physician who correctly analyzes your skin and determines the correct needle depth and combination according to the type of scar.
