Why was Dermapen banned?

Author: Elfrieda Bode PhD  |  Last update: Saturday, November 15, 2025

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has released an alert for practitioners to stop using the Dermapen 3 device, the Dermapen 3 needle tips and the Dermapen Cryo device due to potential risk of injury or infection.

What are the dangers of Dermapen?

Skin damage is a risk that commonly occurs with microneedling devices. The damage may include bleeding, bruising, redness, tightness, itching and peeling, and these typically go away without any treatment after a few days or weeks.

Is Dermapen banned?

In August 2019, the UK's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) banned the use of Dermapen 3, Dermapen 3 needle tips, and the Dermapen Cryo device.

Why does my skin look older after microneedling?

Why Do I Look Older After Microneedling? You might look older after microneedling because your skin is temporarily inflamed and shedding older layers.

Is Dermapen FDA approved for face?

It is a class 1 FDA approved fractional micro-needling device that works to tighten, lift and rejuvenate the skin. It is effective in reducing the fine lines around your eyes and the facial wrinkles you notice when you look in the mirror. Dermapen also works to diminish acne and surgical scars.

The Truth About At-Home Microneedling & the Potential FDA Ban

Which is better, Dermapen or SkinPen?

Firstly, SkinPen is more affordable than Dermapen, making it an advantage for those on a budget. However, Dermapen has more advanced features and can be customized to fit each individual's unique needs, which makes it a more versatile option.

What happens to the face after Dermapen?

In the days and weeks after microneedling, you might notice that your skin burns or feels tight. Some people also have dry, flaking skin that improves with moisturizer. Most people need multiple microneedling treatments, usually about 3 weeks to 8 weeks apart. It can take 3 months to 6 months to see results.

What is the average price of a microneedling session?

The average cost of microneedling in the US is about $640 per session, according to over 300 patient experiences on RealSelf. This can vary between $300 to $700, however, depending on: Your location: Prices may be higher in major cities or upscale clinics.

How long does it take for collagen to rebuild after microneedling?

Results will depend on the severity of the area being treated. The tightened and final results will be seen gradually over 6-9 months which is the time it takes for each individual's body to produce collagen naturally and for the skin to rebuild after injury.

Is microneedling better than Botox?

As stand-alone treatments, these are both fantastic in their own ways. Botox will provide good visual results on the skin, as the area will look and feel smoother – although for firmer, plumper, healthy-looking skin, microneedling wins, hands-down.

Why is Dermapen so expensive?

Health devices (such as a microneedling pen) are quite expensive, usually on the order of thousands of pounds, and the people who buy them have to make the money back. This drives up the price of the procedure. It also creates a price difference because providers don't use the same quality or type of pen.

Can Dermapen cause broken capillaries?

Attempting to improve your scars with microneedling at home may cause more harm than good to your skin. Puncturing too deep can result in rupture of capillaries.

Will Dermapen tighten skin?

The Dermapen does work for skin tightening and can be safely used on patients of all Fitzpatrick skin types. The Dermapen is an FDA-registered device with eleven needles that can repeatedly penetrate the skin during treatment.

Why do I feel sick after microneedling?

It is rare to get any serious side effects following treatment, however possible side-effects include the following: Bruising/swelling/redness at injection site. Infection. Nausea, headache or flu-like symptoms.

Is microneedling carcinogenic?

There is a risk for extended exposure, but under the care of a licensed, board-certified provider, exposure is greatly regulated and minimized and the risk for any carcinogenic exposure or other health impacts is extremely low.

Can Dermapen cause hair loss?

Longer needles cause more damage. That means they stimulate more growth factors, but it also increases your risk of injury. If you go with needles that are longer than 1.5 mm, you risk actually causing damage to the hair follicle itself, which could increase hair loss.

Why does my skin look more wrinkled after microneedling?

This could be due to the shedding, swelling, or both. For some patients, some visible marks might be apparent, though these are typically light. No need to worry, because anything “off” you notice on your face after microneedling is temporary and will clear up in a few days.

What does your face look like 2 days after microneedling?

The skin will be flushed or red as if you've spent the day in the sun with a mild to moderate sunburn, which may be expected when you leave your appointment. Potenza RF Microneedling-induced redness usually goes away in 48 hours or less. Other side effects, such as peeling and breakouts, may take longer to heal.

Does skin tighten after microneedling?

While microneedling offers a range of benefits, including improved skin texture, reduced pore size, and lessening the appearance of fine lines and scars, it primarily focuses on the skin's surface. It does promote some degree of skin tightening due to collagen production.

Which at home microneedling is best?

  • Best Overall: Beauty Bio Glopro At Home Microneedling Tool.
  • Best for Beginners: Stacked Skincare Microneedling Tool.
  • Best for Hair Growth: Act & Acre . 25mm Scalp Dermaroller.
  • Best for Dry Skin: Skin Gym Hyaluronic Roller.

How long is 1 session of microneedling?

A treatment session itself only lasts between 20 and 30 minutes depending on how many areas need to be treated. However, you must wait for the numbing cream to take effect and have your treatment area disinfected. Expect to spend at least an hour or two from start to finish.

What are the disadvantages of Dermapen?

There's no sugar-coating it: any procedure that penetrates the skin must be accompanied by the strictest infection control to prevent cross-infection. Cross-infection occurs when harmful microorganisms (like bacteria or viruses) spread from the practitioner or device to you.

What is the best moisturizer after microneedling?

It is best to stick to gel-based moisturizers that are non-comedogenic and do not cause acne. You can also opt for oil-free options such as those made with vitamin E or other natural ingredients like aloe vera gel which are known for their healing properties.

How to sleep after microneedling?

Germ-free skin is essential to promote healing, prevent infection, and achieve a healthy glow after microneedling. Always wash your hands before touching your face. Only touch your face when washing it or applying serums and moisturizer. Sleep on your back for the first week or at least 3 days after microneedling.

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