Supporting your skin’s natural renewal
Skin-quality care from within using Dermapen 4®
What is Dermapen 4®?
Dermapen 4® is an electric medical device used in microneedling therapy, which leverages the skin’s natural healing process by creating numerous fine micro-channels with ultra-fine needles. Sixteen ultra-fine needles vibrate at high speed, with care taken to limit surface burden, while supporting the production of collagen and elastin.
It is used for the care of multifaceted skin texture concerns such as acne scars, enlarged pores, fine lines, skin texture, and dullness. At our clinic, we carefully adjust needle depth and combined topical agents according to your skin condition to provide a tailored treatment.
*Dermapen 4® is a medical device not approved in Japan, and is obtained via personal-import by the physician. For details, please refer to the “Self-pay treatment / device disclosure” section at the bottom of this page.
WORRIES — Recommended for
・Those concerned about acne scars (crater-type)
・Those with enlarged or sagging pores
・Those who wish to refine skin texture and tone
・Those concerned about fine lines or loss of firmness
・Those concerned about dullness or overall skin tone
・Those considering a treatment that supports collagen production
・Those with concerns that skincare alone cannot reach
・Men concerned about pore visibility or acne scars
FEATURE
Supports the skin’s natural renewal
By creating fine micro-channels in the skin with ultra-fine needles, the treatment leverages the skin’s intrinsic self-healing process and aims to support collagen and elastin production. With a different mechanism of action from lasers and light treatments, it is used by those considering skin-quality care.
Addresses multiple skin concerns at once
One of its features is the ability to simultaneously address multiple skin concerns, including acne scars, pores, fine lines, texture, and dullness. Treatment is also possible on the neck, back of the hands, and selected body areas — not only the face. By adjusting needle depth based on each concern, we propose a treatment plan tailored to each patient.
Pain-conscious treatment
A topical anesthetic cream is applied before the treatment, and the procedure begins once the anesthesia has taken effect. Anesthetic response varies by individual, so please share any concerns about pain during your consultation with the doctor.
Combinable with other treatments
You may also discuss combinations with injectable therapies such as Juvelook and Rejuran, oral beauty medications, beauty IV drips, and Pico toning. Depending on your concerns, this allows you to consider total skin care from inside and out.
Suitable for men’s skin concerns
Dermapen 4® may also be used for concerns specific to men, such as enlarged pores, acne scars around the beard area, and skin issues related to excess sebum. We welcome male patients for consultations and treatments.
Important notes (risks, side effects, downtime)
| Treatment time | Approx. 45–60 minutes (including 20–30 minutes for anesthetic onset) |
|---|---|
| Anesthesia | A topical anesthetic cream is used. Onset and effect vary by individual. |
| Downtime | Immediately to a few hours after: marked redness and stinging Day 1–2: mild redness and dryness From day 3: gradually subsides, similar to a post-sunburn state Days 5–7: typically returns to a normal skin state (recovery varies by individual) |
| Makeup | Possible from the next day (sunscreen and powder foundation only after physician’s approval). Please avoid makeup on the treated area on the day of treatment. |
| Face washing / shower | On the day of treatment, only lukewarm-water rinsing is allowed. Showering is allowed but please avoid rubbing the treated area. Saunas, baths, and vigorous exercise should be avoided for 2–3 days. |
| Sun protection | For at least one week after treatment, please be especially diligent with UV protection. We ask that you use sunscreen (SPF50+). |
| Main risks / side effects | Redness, swelling, stinging, dryness, peeling, pinpoint bleeding, bruising, post-inflammatory pigmentation, infection, folliculitis, transient acne flare-up, herpes outbreak (in those with a history), scarring (rare), individual variation in results, etc. |
| Recommended frequency | 4–5 sessions at 3–4 week intervals are generally suggested. We adjust the schedule based on your skin condition and recovery after each session. |
| Combined topical agents | As needed, growth factors, non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid peeling, etc., may be used in combination. Some of these include drugs not approved in Japan and are obtained via personal-import by the physician. Please refer to the self-pay disclosure at the bottom of this page for details. |
| Those who cannot receive this treatment | Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding; those prone to keloids; those with active acne, herpes, eczema, or infection; those taking anticoagulants; those with bleeding tendencies; those with autoimmune disease; those with significant recent or scheduled sun exposure; those with collagen-related disease; those who have recently used isotretinoin (Roaccutane, etc.); minors; or those whom the physician judges unsuitable for treatment. |
*The above is a general timeline; pain, downtime, and perceived results vary by individual.
*Treatment time does not include consultation or physician examination.
*If you have any medical history, current medications, or allergies, please disclose them at consultation.
*Those with a history of herpes may require prophylactic antiviral medication before and after treatment.
FLOW — Treatment process
We listen to your skin concerns, and the physician examines your skin condition. After confirming any allergies, medical history, current medications, and recent sun exposure, we determine suitability and propose a treatment plan.
After removing your makeup, we apply a topical anesthetic cream to the treatment area. Please wait approximately 20–30 minutes for the anesthesia to take effect.
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, we perform the Dermapen 4® treatment. We adjust the needle depth based on your skin condition and the area, and proceed carefully. We check in with you throughout the treatment.
After treatment, we apply cooling to soothe redness and warmth. We explain post-treatment instructions and skincare guidance, and provide oral or topical medication if needed.
Physician’s note
About Dermapen 4®
Dermapen belongs to a category called “microneedling therapy” that leverages the skin’s natural healing process. Its mechanism of action differs from laser or light treatments: by intentionally creating fine micro-injuries with ultra-fine needles, it aims to support collagen and elastin production.
At our clinic, we use Dermapen 4®. This electric device features 16 ultra-fine needles vibrating at high speed, with adjustable depth from 0.2 to 3.0 mm — allowing us to propose a treatment plan tailored to your concerns, from delicate facial areas to thicker skin.
It is known for addressing multiple skin concerns simultaneously — acne scars (craters), enlarged pores, fine lines, skin texture, and dullness. Some patients notice a change in skin texture even after a single session, but because the treatment relies on the skin’s self-renewal process, results are generally easier to feel after a course of 4–5 sessions at 3–4 week intervals (results vary by individual).
What’s important is “appropriate downtime management.” Post-treatment redness, dryness, and peeling are part of the normal course, but neglecting UV protection or moisturization increases the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation. Please follow the aftercare instructions carefully. Patients with a history of herpes may also require concurrent prophylactic medication.
Dermapen 4® is a medical device not approved in Japan, and treatments are performed using devices obtained via the physician’s personal-import. We ask that you fully understand the risks and benefits before proceeding. If you are considering care for skin concerns, please feel free to come in for a consultation. We will propose a plan tailored to your skin.
Together Menu — Recommended combinations
Combining Dermapen 4® with injectable therapies (Juvelook, Rejuran), oral beauty medications, or beauty IV drips lets you consider total skin care from inside and out.
Q&A (FAQ)
- How soon can I notice changes?
-
Some patients notice a change in skin texture after a single session, but because Dermapen 4® leverages the skin’s self-renewal process, results are generally easier to feel after a course of 4–5 sessions at 3–4 week intervals. We will propose a treatment plan based on your skin condition and concerns (results vary by individual).
- How long is the downtime?
-
Marked redness and stinging are common immediately to a few hours after treatment; mild redness and dryness occur on days 1–2; from day 3 onward symptoms gradually subside, and skin typically returns to its normal state within 5–7 days. Makeup is possible from the next day, but please avoid saunas, vigorous exercise, and sun exposure for approximately one week (recovery varies by individual).
- How painful is the treatment?
-
We apply a topical anesthetic cream for 20–30 minutes before treatment to keep pain to a minimum. However, sensation can vary depending on needle depth and the area treated (forehead, nose, around the mouth — thinner areas can be more sensitive). If you are particularly sensitive to pain, please discuss it during your consultation.
- Can it help with acne scars?
-
It is known as a treatment that may help with acne scars (especially crater-type indentations), although results vary by individual. Depending on the depth and type of scar, multiple sessions or combined treatments may be recommended. We cannot promise results, but consistent treatment aiming to support collagen production is key.
- Can it help with enlarged pores?
-
It is a treatment that may help with enlarged pores, especially “sagging pores.” Because it aims to support collagen production, it can be used together with care for skin firmness and texture. Multiple sessions tend to make changes easier to feel (results vary by individual).
- Can it be combined with other aesthetic treatments?
-
You may combine it with injectable therapies such as Juvelook and Rejuran, oral beauty medications, beauty IV drips, Pico toning, and more. Some combinations can be performed on the same day; others are better with a gap in between, so please discuss this at your examination.
- Can men receive this treatment?
-
We welcome male patients. Dermapen 4® can also be used for concerns specific to men (enlarged pores, acne scars around the beard, skin issues from excess sebum). We accommodate visits after work or on weekends (about a 4-minute walk from Yabacho Station).
- I have a history of herpes. Can I receive this treatment?
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Patients with a history of herpes are at risk of an outbreak triggered by treatment. Concurrent prophylactic antiviral medication starting before treatment can help reduce this risk. Please disclose your history at your examination.
- Can I receive treatment while pregnant or breastfeeding?
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Because safety has not been established, we do not perform this treatment on patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Please consult us regarding restart timing after delivery and weaning.
- How should I care for my skin after the treatment?
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Skin is sensitive after treatment, so please: (1) avoid rubbing, (2) avoid harsh skincare or peeling products, (3) use thorough UV protection (SPF50+ sunscreen recommended), and (4) moisturize generously. Careful moisturization starting on the day of treatment is especially important.
Why patients choose us
Is Dermapen the same wherever I receive it?
Dermapen 4® is a treatment whose burden on the skin and recovery course can vary depending on needle depth, speed, and treatment area. At our clinic, an experienced physician thoroughly checks your skin condition and adjusts needle depth as treatment proceeds. We can also propose combinations with injectable therapies such as Juvelook and Rejuran, as well as inner care via oral beauty medications and beauty IV drips, allowing for a total plan based on your concerns. If you’re interested in Dermapen or want to address multiple skin concerns at once, please feel free to come in for a consultation.
Self-pay treatment / device disclosure (details)
■ Self-pay treatment
This treatment is self-pay and not covered by Japanese national health insurance. All listed prices are tax-included. Please refer to the “Pricing” page for details.
■ Device used
We use Dermapen 4® (manufactured by Equipmed Pty Ltd, Australia). It is an electric microneedling medical device with 16 ultra-fine needles vibrating at high speed.
■ Approval status in Japan
Dermapen 4® is a medical device not approved in Japan. It is obtained via personal-import by the physician. There is no Japan-approved medical device with equivalent indications.
■ Use in other countries
The device is certified or approved as a medical device by the U.S. FDA, the European CE mark, the Korean MFDS, and others. It is also registered with the Australian TGA. We are currently not aware of any reports of serious health damage in other countries.
■ Pharmaceutical Side Effects Relief System
Because a non-approved medical device is used, treatment is outside the scope of the Pharmaceutical Side Effects Relief System and the Medical Device-Related Biological Product Infection Relief System administered by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) of Japan.
■ Combined topical agents
As needed during treatment, growth factors, non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid peeling, and similar agents may be used. Some include drugs not approved in Japan and are obtained via personal-import by the physician. There may be no Japan-approved equivalent, and these are also outside the scope of the Pharmaceutical Side Effects Relief System. They are used in aesthetic medicine in other countries, and we are currently not aware of any reports of serious health damage abroad. The physician will explain details at examination.
■ Main risks / side effects
Redness, swelling, stinging, dryness, peeling, pinpoint bleeding, bruising, post-inflammatory pigmentation, infection, folliculitis, transient acne flare-up, herpes outbreak (in those with a history), scarring (rare), and individual variation in results. If symptoms suggesting a serious side effect occur (severe infection signs, persistent intense pain, etc.), please contact our clinic or a medical institution immediately.
■ Those who cannot receive this treatment
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding; those prone to keloids; those with active acne, herpes, eczema, or infection; those taking anticoagulants; those with bleeding tendencies; those with autoimmune disease; those with significant recent or scheduled sun exposure; those with collagen-related disease; those who have recently used isotretinoin (Roaccutane, etc.); minors; or those whom the physician judges unsuitable for treatment.
*All treatments are self-pay and not covered by Japanese national health insurance. *All listed prices are tax-included.
Dermapen
PRICE
*This is a special, limited-time price available because we do not invest in paid advertising.
*Prices are subject to change without notice.
*Set pricing available upon request.
| Dermapen | Sessions | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Dermapen Full-face (using Dermapen 4) | 1 session [Course] 3-session course 6-session course | JPY 30,000 Set price JPY 75,000 (JPY 25,000/session) JPY 132,000 (JPY 22,000/session) |
*All prices include tax
Our Doctors
Chief Medical Director / Aesthetic Surgeon
Yuki Takamido, MD
Specialties
Aesthetic surgery / Oculoplastic surgery
Career
2014: Graduated from Mie University School of Medicine
2015: Meitetsu Hospital
2017: Fujita Health University Hospital — Assistant Professor
2020: Founded Flamingo Aesthetic Clinic
2021: Branch director, Shiromoto Clinic Aesthetic Surgery
2021: Co-founded Viviage Clinic (Kokoukai Medical Corporation)
2022: Ace Clinic (Ichibikai Medical Corporation)
2023: Director, Sakae Aesthetic Clinic — Sakae branch
Currently: VIVIAGE ZONNE CLINIC (Kokoukai Medical Corporation)
Areas of expertise
Hyaluronic acid filler, thread lift
Eyelid surgery (lower-eyelid fat removal for dark circles, transcutaneous & transconjunctival Hamra technique, midface lift, double-eyelid surgery, blepharoptosis surgery)
Aesthetic dermatology procedures
Society memberships
Japanese Society of Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Japan Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Japanese Society of Aesthetic Dermatology
Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine
Days available
Wednesday, Friday (10:00–17:30)
Every other Saturday (please call to confirm)
Director
Minoru Horisawa, MD
Book a Consultation / Contact Us
If you have any concerns, please feel free to reach out.
Our consultation, including the doctor’s examination, is available free of charge.
Hours: Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 10:00–17:30 (Closed Thu, Sun)
T.O Building 4F, 3-33-30 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya — about a 4-minute walk from Yabacho Station