Microneedling with PRP (SkinPen)

Northwestern Medicine Aesthetics performs FDA-cleared SkinPen microneedling for collagen induction therapy, targeting acne scars, fine lines, and uneven texture. The procedure is available as a standalone treatment or combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) derived from the patient's own blood to amplify healing and collagen production. Treatments are delivered in a supervised clinical environment within an academic medical centre setting.

Microneedling at Northwestern Medicine Aesthetics uses the SkinPen device — the first FDA-cleared microneedling system in the United States — to deliver controlled, precise micro-injuries across the skin surface. Each micro-channel created by the sterile needle cartridge triggers the body's wound-healing cascade: fibroblasts are activated, collagen and elastin fibres are synthesised, and new blood vessels form. The cumulative result over a series of treatments is a measurable improvement in skin texture, pore size, fine line depth, and the appearance of acne scars or surgical scars. Northwestern Medicine Aesthetics also offers microneedling combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), commonly referred to as the 'vampire facial.' In this protocol, a small volume of the patient's blood is drawn, centrifuged to concentrate platelets and growth factors, and applied topically to the skin immediately after microneedling. The micro-channels created by the SkinPen needles allow the PRP to penetrate deeply into the dermis, where platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and epidermal growth factor (EGF) further stimulate tissue regeneration. Research suggests the combination outperforms standalone microneedling for acne scar reduction and overall skin rejuvenation. The treatment is suitable for most skin types and tones, including Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI where ablative laser options carry a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The SkinPen's adjustable needle depth (0.25–2.5 mm) allows the aesthetician or clinician to tailor the treatment to different facial zones — more superficial passes over bony prominences and deeper passes over thicker skin areas such as the cheeks. A typical course for acne scarring involves three to six monthly sessions, with visible results becoming apparent two to four weeks after each treatment as collagen remodelling progresses. The Northwestern Medicine Aesthetics team, operating under the oversight of board-certified plastic surgeons, ensures that treatment depth, PRP preparation, and post-care protocols meet clinical standards rather than the variable practices common in standalone medspas. Patients in Chicago's Near North Side, Streeterville, Gold Coast, and River North neighbourhoods will find the Erie St location easily accessible for this treatment series.