At Prince Plastic Surgery, we understand that healthy, radiant skin is a reflection of confidence and self-care. Located in Little Rock and serving patients throughout Fayetteville and surrounding areas, our practice offers SkinPen microneedling, an FDA-cleared treatment designed to rejuvenate your skin naturally. Whether you’re concerned about acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, or uneven skin texture, SkinPen provides a minimally invasive solution that harnesses your body’s own healing response to deliver visible, lasting results.
Dr. Melanie Prince, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of medical experience, oversees all aesthetic treatments at our practice, ensuring that every patient receives care guided by surgical expertise and a commitment to natural-looking outcomes. Our team combines clinical precision with a patient-first approach, making SkinPen microneedling accessible to those seeking skin rejuvenation without downtime or surgical intervention.
About Dr. Melanie Prince, MD
Dr. Melanie Prince is a board-certified plastic surgeon recognized for her expertise in both surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures. She earned her medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and completed a rigorous six-year integrated plastic surgery residency at the University of South Florida (2006-2012), where she received comprehensive training in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
With over 15 years of medical experience, Dr. Prince has established herself as a trusted aesthetic surgeon in central and northwest Arkansas. She is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the gold standard credential in the field, and has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, an honor bestowed on fewer than 7% of physicians nationwide. Additionally, Dr. Prince was named one of AY Magazine’s Best Healthcare Professionals in 2020, reflecting her commitment to excellence and patient care.
Dr. Prince’s approach to aesthetic medicine emphasizes natural results, patient safety, and individualized treatment planning. She believes that the best aesthetic outcomes come from understanding each patient’s unique goals and anatomy, then selecting or customizing treatments to achieve those goals with precision and artistry. This philosophy extends to all treatments offered at Prince Plastic Surgery, including SkinPen microneedling.
What Is SkinPen Microneedling?
SkinPen is the first and only FDA-cleared microneedling device on the market, representing a significant advancement in non-surgical skin rejuvenation. Unlike at-home derma rollers or non-FDA-cleared devices, SkinPen uses sterile, medical-grade needles that create controlled micro-injuries in the skin’s surface. These micro-injuries are precisely calibrated to trigger your body’s natural healing response without causing visible damage or requiring extensive recovery time.1
The device features adjustable needle depth settings, allowing our team to customize treatment based on your specific skin type, concerns, and goals. This precision is what sets SkinPen apart from other microneedling options and why it remains the gold standard in professional aesthetic practices.
How SkinPen Microneedling Works
SkinPen works by initiating a three-phase healing process that naturally revitalizes your skin from within:
Phase 1: Inflammation and Activation
When the micro-needles create controlled channels in the skin, your body recognizes this as a signal to begin healing. This triggers the release of growth factors and initiates the inflammatory response, which is essential for skin renewal. This phase typically lasts 24 to 48 hours.
Phase 2: Proliferation and Collagen Production
During this phase, your body actively produces new collagen and elastin fibers to repair the micro-injuries. Collagen remodeling continues for several weeks following microneedling treatment, with peak collagen production occurring around 4 to 6 weeks post-treatment. This is why results continue to improve over time, even after your skin has fully healed.
Phase 3: Remodeling and Skin Renewal
Over the following weeks and months, newly formed collagen and elastin reorganize and strengthen, resulting in improved skin texture, firmness, and overall appearance. This phase can continue for up to three months following your final treatment.
This natural healing cascade means that SkinPen doesn’t just treat surface-level concerns, it addresses skin quality at a deeper level, promoting long-lasting improvements in skin health and appearance.
Dr. Prince’s expertise always ensures that my Botox and lip filler look
Angie
natural, making me look refreshed, like I just returned from a week at
the beach. There is nobody else in central AR that I would trust to put
a needle in my face, and her bedside manner is always friendly and professional.
Benefits of SkinPen Microneedling
SkinPen is effective for treating a wide range of skin concerns, making it a versatile option for patients with different goals:
Acne Scars and Textural Irregularities
SkinPen is particularly effective for atrophic acne scars, which appear as indentations or pitting in the skin. By stimulating collagen production beneath scar tissue, the treatment helps fill in depressed areas and improve overall skin texture. Many patients see significant improvement after a series of treatments.2
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
The collagen and elastin stimulated by SkinPen help restore skin firmness and elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. Results are natural-looking and progressive, avoiding the frozen or overdone appearance sometimes associated with other treatments.
Sun Damage and Hyperpigmentation
Chronic sun exposure can lead to uneven skin tone, age spots, and a dull complexion. SkinPen helps address these concerns by promoting skin cell turnover and encouraging the growth of healthy new skin cells. This results in a more even, radiant complexion.
Enlarged Pores
By tightening and thickening the skin, SkinPen can help minimize the appearance of enlarged pores, particularly on the face and nose.
Stretch Marks
SkinPen can be used on the body to treat stretch marks on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and other areas. The collagen stimulation helps improve the appearance of both newer and older stretch marks.3
Skin Laxity and Loss of Firmness
As we age, our skin naturally loses collagen and elastin, leading to sagging and loss of definition. SkinPen helps restore skin firmness and can be particularly effective on the neck, chest, and jawline.4
Melasma and Uneven Skin Tone
For patients with melasma or other forms of hyperpigmentation, SkinPen can help improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark patches when combined with appropriate post-treatment skincare.
What to Expect During Your SkinPen Treatment
Understanding what happens before, during, and after your treatment helps you prepare and manage expectations for optimal results.
Before Your Treatment
During your consultation at our Little Rock or Fayetteville office, Dr. Prince or a member of our clinical team will assess your skin type, discuss your specific concerns, and determine whether SkinPen is the right choice for you. We’ll also review your medical history to ensure you’re a good candidate. Certain medications, active skin infections, or recent procedures may require adjustment to your treatment plan.
Before your appointment, we recommend:
- Avoiding sun exposure, self tanner, and tanning beds for at least two week
- Discontinuing retinoid products for seven days prior to treatment
- Avoiding blood-thinning medications or supplements if possible (consult your primary care physician first)
- Arriving with clean skin, free of makeup and skincare products
During Your Treatment
Your SkinPen treatment typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. Here’s what you can expect:
- Cleansing: We’ll gently cleanse your skin to remove any impurities.
- Numbing: A topical anesthetic is applied to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Most patients report minimal discomfort, describing the sensation as similar to light scratching.
- Microneedling: Using the SkinPen device, we’ll make multiple passes over the treatment area, adjusting needle depth based on your skin type and concerns.
- Soothing Serum: After treatment, a calming serum is applied to reduce inflammation and support the healing process.
After Your Treatment
Recovery from SkinPen is minimal, which is one of the reasons it’s so popular among busy professionals. Most patients experience mild redness and slight swelling immediately following treatment, similar to a mild sunburn. These effects typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours.
Post-treatment care is essential for optimal results:
- Avoid makeup for 24 to 48 hours
- Use only gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
- Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily, once 24 hours have passed
- Avoid direct sun exposure for at least one week
- Skip strenuous exercise and hot baths for 24 hours
- Avoid retinoids, vitamin C serums, and other active ingredients for 5 days
Your skin may feel slightly tight or dry for a few days, which is normal. Hydrating moisturizers and sunscreen are your best friends during recovery.
Treatment Timeline and Results
How Many Treatments Do I Need?
Most patients benefit from a series of three to six SkinPen treatments spaced four to six weeks apart. This spacing allows adequate time for collagen remodeling between sessions while maintaining the momentum of skin improvement. Your specific treatment plan will depend on your skin concerns, skin type, and desired results. During your consultation, Dr. Prince will recommend a personalized protocol tailored to your goals.
When Will I See Results?
Results from SkinPen are progressive and continue to improve over time. Many patients notice initial improvements in skin texture and radiance within one to two weeks following their first treatment. However, more significant improvements in acne scars, fine lines, and skin firmness typically become visible after two to three treatments.
The most dramatic results are often seen three to six months after completing a full treatment series, as collagen remodeling continues long after your final appointment.
Maintenance Treatments
To maintain your results, we recommend maintenance treatments two times a year. This helps sustain collagen production and keeps your skin looking its best over time.
Why Choose Prince Plastic Surgery for SkinPen Microneedling?
Board-Certified Expertise
Dr. Melanie Prince is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, having completed a rigorous six-year integrated plastic surgery residency at the University of South Florida following her medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. This extensive training ensures that every aesthetic treatment at our practice is guided by surgical expertise and an understanding of skin anatomy at the deepest level.
Unlike many aesthetic practices staffed primarily by aestheticians or nurse injectors, Prince Plastic Surgery is led by a board-certified plastic surgeon who personally oversees all treatment protocols and patient care. This distinction matters, particularly for complex cases or patients seeking customized treatment approaches.
Customized Treatment Plans
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all aesthetics. During your consultation, Dr. Prince will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific skin type, concerns, and goals. Whether you’re seeking subtle refinement or more dramatic improvement, we’ll adjust your treatment protocol accordingly.
Combination Treatment Options
While SkinPen is highly effective on its own, we often recommend combining it with complementary treatments for enhanced results. These may include:
- Chemical peels to address surface-level pigmentation
- Topical growth factor serums to amplify collagen stimulation
- Clear & Brilliant laser
- Other non-surgical treatments to address specific concerns
During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether combination treatments might benefit your particular situation.
Patient-Centered Care
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all aesthetics. During your consultation, Dr. Prince will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific skin type, concerns, and goals. Whether you’re seeking subtle refinement or more dramatic improvement, we’ll adjust your treatment protocol accordingly.
At Prince Plastic Surgery, your comfort and satisfaction are our priorities. We take time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions thoroughly, and ensure you feel confident in your treatment plan before moving forward.
Recognition and Awards
During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether combination treatments might benefit your particular situation.
Dr. Prince’s commitment to excellence has been recognized by her peers and professional organizations. She is a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, an honor given to fewer than 7% of physicians nationwide, and was named one of AY Magazine’s Best Healthcare Professionals in 2020.
Is SkinPen Right for You?
SkinPen is safe and effective for most skin types and tones. However, certain conditions may require modification or alternative treatments:
Ideal Candidates:
- Patients with acne scars, fine lines, or wrinkles
- Those seeking to improve skin texture and tone
- Individuals with sun damage or age spots
- Patients looking for minimal downtime
- Those with realistic expectations about results
May Require Consultation:
- Patients with active acne or skin infections
- Those with certain medical conditions affecting wound healing
- Individuals taking blood-thinning medications
- Patients with a history of keloid formation
- Those with very sensitive skin or active rosacea
During your consultation, we’ll discuss your medical history and determine whether SkinPen is the best option for you or if an alternative treatment might be more appropriate.
Potential Risks and Complications
While SkinPen is a safe procedure when performed by a qualified professional, as with any skin treatment, there are potential risks to be aware of:
Common, Temporary Side Effects:
- Mild redness and swelling (24-48 hours)
- Slight dryness or tightness (resolves within days)
- Minimal discomfort during treatment (managed with topical anesthetic)
Rare Complications:
- Infection
- Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation (more common in darker skin types, usually temporary)
- Scarring (extremely rare with proper technique and aftercare)
- Allergic reaction to topical products used during treatment
To minimize risks, it’s essential to follow all pre- and post-treatment instructions carefully and to disclose any relevant medical conditions or medications during your consultation.
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Where can I find SkinPen microneedling near me?
Prince Plastic Surgery offers SkinPen microneedling for our patients from Little Rock and Fayetteville, Arkansas. Under the oversight of board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Melanie Prince, our team provides customized microneedling treatments designed to address your specific skin concerns with minimal downtime and natural-looking results. We serve patients throughout central and northwest Arkansas, and we’re committed to making world-class aesthetic care accessible to our community.
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Can I combine SkinPen with other treatments?
Yes, SkinPen pairs well with many other aesthetic treatments. Common combinations include:
- Chemical peels for enhanced skin renewal
- Topical serums containing growth factors or hyaluronic acid
- Other non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatments
During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether combination treatments might enhance your results.
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Does SkinPen hurt?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during SkinPen treatment. A topical anesthetic is applied before the procedure to ensure your comfort. Many describe the sensation as similar to light scratching or a gentle vibration. If you have a low pain tolerance, let us know during your consultation, and we can discuss additional comfort measures.
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How long does recovery take?
Recovery from SkinPen is minimal. Most patients experience mild redness and slight swelling for 24 to 48 hours, similar to a mild sunburn. You can return to normal activities immediately, though we recommend avoiding strenuous exercise and direct sun exposure for the first 24 hours. Makeup can typically be worn after 24 to 48 hours.
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Are there any side effects?
SkinPen is very safe when performed by a qualified professional. Temporary side effects may include mild redness, swelling, and slight dryness, all of which resolve within a few days. Serious complications are rare. As with any skin treatment, there’s a small risk of infection if post-treatment care instructions aren’t followed, but this is uncommon.
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How much does SkinPen cost?
Pricing for SkinPen microneedling varies based on the size of the treatment area and the number of sessions in your package. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed cost estimate based on your personalized treatment plan. Many patients find that investing in a series of treatments provides better value than single sessions.
For information about financing options, including CareCredit and payment plans, please contact our office directly.
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Can I get SkinPen if I have sensitive skin?
Yes, SkinPen can be used on sensitive skin. The adjustable needle depth allows us to customize the treatment to your skin’s tolerance. If you have very sensitive skin or conditions like active rosacea, we may recommend starting with a gentler protocol or combining SkinPen with soothing treatments to minimize irritation.
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What is the difference between SkinPen and other microneedling devices?
SkinPen is the only FDA-cleared microneedling device, which means it has undergone rigorous testing and approval by the FDA for safety and efficacy. The device features:
- Sterile, single-use needle cartridges (reducing infection risk)
- Adjustable needle depth for customization
- Consistent, controlled needle penetration
- Clinical evidence supporting its safety and effectiveness
Other microneedling devices may not have FDA clearance or may use different technology. During your consultation, our staff can discuss why SkinPen is our device of choice for optimal patient outcomes.
Contact Us
Ready to discover the transformative power of SkinPen microneedling? Schedule your consultation with our team at Prince Plastic Surgery today. We’ll assess your skin, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan designed to help you achieve the radiant, healthy skin you deserve.
1 Cureus. Microneedling in Dermatology: A Comprehensive Review of Applications, Techniques, and Outcomes. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11499218/. Accessed February 18, 2026.
2 Litchman G, Nair PA, Badri T, et al. Microneedling. [Updated 2022 Sep 26]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459344/. Accessed February 18, 2026.
3 Litchman G, Nair PA, Badri T, et al. Microneedling. [Updated 2022 Sep 26]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459344/. Accessed February 18, 2026.
4 Cleveland Clinic. Microneedling. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23113-microneedling. Accessed February 18, 2026.
Dr. Melanie Prince has either authored or reviewed and approved this content.