Dermapen Microneedling in Sharjah
Medically reviewed by Dar Al Kamal Team
What is Dermapen microneedling?
Dermapen microneedling is a form of collagen induction therapy that uses a motorised, pen-shaped device to make very fine, evenly spaced micro-injuries in the skin. Each puncture is tiny and closes quickly, yet together they trigger the skin's natural wound-healing response, which rebuilds collagen and elastin in the deeper layer of the skin.
The healing response runs in three overlapping stages. First comes a short phase of inflammation, when the skin looks pink and feels warm. Next, the skin produces new collagen fibres to fill the tiny channels. Finally, over the following weeks and months, that new collagen is reorganised and strengthened, which is why the change in texture continues to build long after the redness has gone.
The Dermapen moves its needles straight in and out at speed, and the doctor sets the needle depth for each zone of the face, shallower over thin skin around the eyes and forehead, deeper over the cheeks and scarred areas. The needles sit in a single-use sterile cartridge that is opened for you and discarded afterwards.
Dermapen microneedling at Dar Al Kamal Hospital, Sharjah is performed in-house by the aesthetic team.
Who needs it
Microneedling is mainly used for:
- Acne scars, particularly rolling scars with soft, sloping edges and shallow boxcar scars
- Rough, uneven skin texture
- Enlarged pores on the nose and cheeks
- Fine lines and early loss of firmness
- Some stretch marks and flat surgical or injury scars
Acne scars come in different shapes, and the shape guides the plan. Rolling scars respond well to microneedling; narrow, deep ice-pick scars and very deep boxcar scars often need targeted work, and microneedling then forms one part of a combined plan with scar revision approaches. Active acne is brought under control first, through dermatology where needed, so that scars are treated once new spots have settled.
Microneedling uses mechanical energy instead of heat, which makes it a useful option across a wide range of skin tones, including the olive and darker skin types common in the UAE. It can be combined with chemical peels, skin tightening treatments, or plasma from your own blood in a PRP facial, and the consultation decides the combination.
What happens
The doctor first examines the skin under good light, often looking at it from the side, because shadows show the true depth and shape of scars. Photographs are taken for later comparison. The skin is cleansed and a numbing cream is applied and left to work.
Once the skin is numb, the cream is removed and the skin is disinfected. A thin layer of sterile gliding serum, usually hyaluronic acid, is spread over the first zone. The doctor moves the Dermapen across the skin in small overlapping passes, working one zone at a time and adjusting the depth as the device moves from forehead to cheeks, nose and chin. Scarred areas receive extra passes.
You feel a vibrating, scratchy sensation, strongest over bone and the upper lip. Pinpoint bleeding is expected on deeper settings and is wiped away as the doctor works. At the end the skin is cleaned and a calming serum is applied.
Microneedling is given as a course of sessions spaced several weeks apart, so the collagen from one session has time to form before the next. Deeper scarring usually needs more sessions than texture or pores, and the doctor sets the plan for your skin.
Preparing for it
Pause retinoids, exfoliating acids and scrubs for a few days before the session, and avoid tanning, waxing or threading the face in the days beforehand. Arrive with clean skin and no make-up.
Tell the doctor about any medicines you take, including acne tablets taken now or recently, blood thinners and supplements. Mention any history of cold sores, keloid scars or skin that darkens easily after injury, because each changes how the treatment is planned. If you have a wedding, Eid or other event coming up, plan the session well ahead so the skin has settled by the day.
Afterwards
The skin looks red and feels tight and warm, like a sunburn, and this settles over the following days. Light flaking or dryness follows as the surface renews.
For the first day, use only the gentle products the doctor gives you, with clean hands. The tiny channels are open to bacteria at first, so change your pillowcase that night, wipe your phone screen before holding it to your face, and leave make-up for later. Keep away from saunas, pools, the gym and hot kitchens until the redness has settled. Sun protection matters more than usual: in Sharjah, stay in the shade and wear a high-protection sunscreen and a hat once the doctor says the skin can take it, because freshly treated skin darkens easily in strong sun.
Contact the hospital if the redness spreads or worsens after the first days, if yellow crusts, pus or blisters appear, if the skin becomes increasingly painful, or if you develop a fever. **Go to the emergency department straight away if your face, lips or throat swell or you have difficulty breathing.**
Cost and insurance
Dermapen microneedling is a cosmetic treatment, and UAE insurance plans usually exclude cosmetic procedures, including treatment of acne scars, so it is normally self-pay. Because microneedling is given as a course, ask for the cost of the full plan, including any combined treatments, at your consultation. Dar Al Kamal Hospital, Sharjah can explain the costs on 06 599 7777.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the risks of Dermapen microneedling?
Dermapen microneedling commonly causes redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, dryness and flaking, which settle on their own. Less often it can cause infection, a cold sore flare, small spots, or darker or lighter patches of skin, especially after sun exposure. Microneedling improves scars and texture but rarely removes deep scars completely, and results vary between people. The doctor explains how these risks apply to you before treatment.
Is microneedling painful?
Microneedling feels like a vibrating, scratchy sensation once numbing cream has taken effect. The forehead, upper lip and areas over bone are usually the most sensitive. The doctor adjusts depth and pace to keep you comfortable and can pause at any point.
Can microneedling treat active acne?
Microneedling is usually postponed while acne is active, because needling through inflamed spots can spread bacteria and worsen inflammation. Active acne is treated first, through dermatology where needed, and microneedling is then used for the scars that remain.
Is Dermapen microneedling safe for darker skin?
Dermapen microneedling is often suitable for darker skin, because it works through tiny punctures and uses no heat. Darker skin can still develop temporary dark patches after any skin treatment, so strict sun protection and gentle aftercare matter. Tell the doctor if your skin darkens easily after spots or scratches.
How many microneedling sessions will I need?
Microneedling is given as a course of sessions spaced several weeks apart, and the number depends on what is being treated. Deep acne scarring usually needs more sessions than enlarged pores or rough texture. The doctor sets out a plan at your consultation and reviews progress against your first photographs.
Can I use a home microneedling roller instead?
Home rollers use much shorter needles, and they are harder to keep sterile and to use evenly than a single-use cartridge applied by a doctor. Rolling can also drag the skin. If you have used a home device, tell the doctor, who will advise whether to stop before a course begins.
What is the difference between microneedling and a chemical peel?
Microneedling creates tiny channels that prompt new collagen deeper in the skin, while a chemical peel uses a solution to lift away surface cells. Microneedling suits scars and texture; peels suit dullness and uneven tone. The two can be used in the same plan, spaced apart.
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