Plasma Pen Treatment Risks: Scarring and Hypopigmentation Explained

Key Takeaways

• With a plasma pen treatment, you can enjoy a non-surgical alternative to skin tightening and rejuvenation. Potential for scarring or hypopigmentation with plasma pen treatments is something everyone needs to know before making an appointment.
• As with any cosmetic procedure, the skill and training of your practitioner are paramount to avoiding complications. As always, select a qualified licensed and experienced provider in your local area!
• It’s important to take proper post-treatment and pre-treatment skin care seriously to promote optimal healing. Daily sun protection and avoiding potential skin irritants will reduce the risk of adverse effects.
• Your individual risk for complications such as scarring or hypopigmentation does depend. Ultimately, it’s all about your individual needs—skin type, history of skin conditions, prior cosmetic treatments, etc.
• Schedule a comprehensive consultation today! Inquire thoroughly about potential risks, healing processes, and realistic outcomes to help you make an informed decision that best suits your unique skin.
• If you experience any signs of infection, delayed healing, or unusual skin changes post-treatment, don’t wait! Contact your provider as soon as possible to give yourself the best chance of a successful outcome.

The potential for scarring or hypopigmentation with plasma pen treatments is a known risk in cosmetic skin care, especially in clinics across the United States. Plasma pens use electric energy to tighten skin, but they can harm the top layer, sometimes leaving scars or causing patches of lighter skin.

These side effects often show up more in people with darker skin tones or those with certain skin conditions. Most clinics stress the need for a skilled provider and a full skin check before any session. Many clients want to know about these risks before they choose the treatment.

To help with safe choices, this blog covers what to expect, how risks show up, and what steps help lower them.

What Is Plasma Pen?

Plasma pen is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared device used to perform skin rejuvenation. It’s a non-invasive treatment that uses plasma energy to address a variety of common skin concerns such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and scars. Over the past few years, the plasma pen has made a name for itself in the cosmetic world.

Today, clinics from coast-to-coast trust it for its precision and effectiveness. It’s a non-invasive alternative to surgical procedures, as it does not cut or excise skin, creating lower risk and less recovery time. The device delivers a hot, concentrated electric current to the skin, creating a small, controlled injury, or microinjury.

Through this, the pen stimulates the body’s natural healing process.

A Non-Surgical Skin Solution

Today, more patients are choosing non-surgical alternatives to skin tightening due to reduced downtime and risk compared to surgical procedures. Plasma pen treatments are a great alternative to facelifts or eyelid surgery but require no incisions or weeks of recovery.

Gone are the weeks of recovery, as most people will only experience five to ten days of redness, swelling, and scabbing. In addition to allowing patients to return to normal activities more quickly than surgical counterparts, these non-invasive techniques often yield results that appear more natural.

How It Targets Skin

Plasma energy does so by creating micro injuries on the skin’s surface. These tiny wounds act as a signaling mechanism to the skin that the area needs to heal. Fibroblasts—active skin cells—immediately flood the zone and go to work producing new collagen and elastin.

This is what tightens and renews the skin. It’s a process that takes time to work, so results become visible slowly.

Popular Treatment Areas

The plasma pen can be used on the eyelids, forehead, cheeks, and around the mouth. It’s best for crepey skin, fine lines, crow’s feet, and acne scars. Many people get it to tighten sagging skin on the neck or jowls.

Many results are noticeable after just 1 treatment, but there are side effects including lingering swelling or scabbing that may occur. In rare instances, burns or scarring have been reported.

The Science: How Plasma Works

Plasma technology is changing the game for skin care! Instead, it uses energy to therapeutically affect the underlying skin without incising or ablating the epidermis. The device then forms that plasma arc. That burst of high-energy matter collides with the skin’s surface and produces targeted, precise heat.

This heat is essential—it’s what activates the skin’s natural healing process without penetrating deep enough to cause serious harm to the skin. Even as the Biden-Harris Administration emphasizes equity, experts are cautioning against mission creep. Not enough energy yields no results. Over-treatment or under-treatment can increase the likelihood of scarring or hyperpigmentation.

Non-surgical skin tightening and skin rejuvenation is increasingly popular with plasma energy, even in delicate areas such as the eyelids. A 2017 study highlighted its promise as a nonsurgical option for eyelid skin tightening, showing how plasma can firm skin in delicate spots.

Creating Controlled Micro-Injuries

How does plasma fibroblast therapy work? These controlled micro-injuries, which are imperceptible to the eye, are sufficient to stimulate the body’s innate healing mechanisms. The skin’s outer protective layer is like your inner natural bandage, allowing the area to heal quicker and safer without worrying about infection.

You want just the right amount of controlled micro-injuries. Induce micro-injuries to stimulate repair, but too much injury may lead to scarring or hypopigmentation.

Stimulating Collagen Production

Collagen is the main protein found in skin that helps it remain firm and taut. In the months that follow, plasma pen treatments stimulate the body to produce more collagen, resulting in increasingly firmer, smoother skin.

While fine lines can sometimes be treated in just one session, deeper impressions may require multiple treatments. In the long run, this increase in collagen helps improve skin quality and appearance.

The Sublimation Process

The sublimation process is when a solid goes directly to a gas. During plasma pen therapy, this process is used to sublime small pieces of skin, tightening and smoothing the treated area.

Vaporization is non-invasive, allowing for precise lifting of tissue without the need for excision or cauterization. This results in less scarring, improved texture, and quicker healing time.

Scarring & Hypopigmentation: Key Risks

Lately, plasma pen treatments have become some of the most sought after cosmetic procedures for skin tightening and skin lifting. Cosmetic and appealing, still, similar to all cosmetic procedures, these involve risks. Scarring and hypopigmentation —two of the most worrisome side effects. Both can dramatically alter the appearance and texture of skin, often permanently.

Before making any plans to move forward with a plasma pen treatment, it’s important to be aware of these risks. You cannot only be aware of them. Informed consent is critical. Informed patients need to know the risk of complications, even if it is very low.

1. Defining Post-Treatment Scarring

Scarring after plasma pen procedures can take a variety of appearances. Typically, it occurs when the skin does not heal as expected. The plasma pen treatment is done by creating small burn marks, or “dots,” on the skin’s outermost layer.

If the device is pressed or held in one position for too long, it may result in deeper burns. These deeper burns hydrolyze proteins and impede proper healing and in doing so, lay the groundwork for scars. Raised scars, or hypertrophic scars, appear thick and bumpy.

Flat, hypopigmented scars may develop as well. Atrophic scars, which appear as little sunken areas or indentations, can occur when underlying tissue is lost. The risk increases when the scabs that form after treatment are scratched off, or if the skin becomes infected.

Increased vigilance in monitoring the healing process will allow for early detection of issues. This early detection gives you the best opportunity to intervene and prevent scarring from developing!

2. Understanding Hypopigmentation Explained

Hypopigmentation occurs when the skin loses pigment or color, resulting in lighter patches where treatment has been performed. This occurs when the plasma pen’s heat damages melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for creating pigment.

Individuals with darker skin tones, or with a previous history of PIH, are at increased risk. The issue isn’t immediately apparent. Often, lighter patches appear weeks after treatment, particularly if the skin heals improperly.

Things such as inadequate aftercare instructions, the use of irritating topical ingredients, or excessive UV exposure shortly after treatment can exacerbate hypopigmentation. Unfortunately, the risk is even greater for those who already have sensitive or reactive skin to begin with.

Patients and providers need to have a frank discussion about these risks prior to initiation. In this manner, all parties involved have an idea of what to look out for.

3. Hyperpigmentation: The Other Side

Hyperpigmentation is an often-overlooked side effect. Rather than producing lighter patches, patients develop dyschromia — dark spots on the skin where the drug was injected. This usually occurs when the body’s inflammatory response to injury causes overproduction of pigment.

The intense heat from the plasma pen can start this process to occur. This is particularly the case for individuals who are susceptible to melasma or individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types III-VI. One of the most important things to consider is sun exposure after treatment, which is a major trigger for hyperpigmentation.

Even minimal sun exposure can darken these healing spots, making them more prominent. Daily application of sunscreen and wearing protective clothing significantly reduce this risk. Employing super-gentle, non-irritating products helps maintain the healing skin and pigment changes.

4. How Common Are These Issues?

The rate of scarring and hypopigmentation occurring after plasma pen treatment is unclear. The majority of studies indicate that the incidence of permanent scarring is under 5%. When this is true, it is usually because a well-trained provider is doing the procedure.

Hypopigmentation occurs more frequently as well, particularly in individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI. Those figures vary widely based on technique, device quality, and post-procedure care. Individual risk varies greatly depending on age, skin type, personal history, and even genetics.

The skill of the practitioner plays a huge role. Experienced providers know how to avoid trouble spots and follow safe protocols. Selecting a qualified, experienced practitioner is critical in making an impact.

5. Long-Term Skin Texture Changes

We know that plasma pen treatments can improve or worsen the skin’s texture. On proper healing, the skin can become smoother and tauter. When the skin does not heal properly, permanent scars, bumps or dips in the skin tone can develop.

Improper use of the device may cause burns during the treatment, which can result in keloid scars and/or textural skin changes. Many individuals notice that with time, these changes diminish, but for some, this is a permanent change.

That’s why proper aftercare is the most important step. Proper care by keeping the treated area clean, avoiding sun exposure, and following the provider’s aftercare instructions are essential to healing and achieving the smooth skin desired.

6. Infection: A Scarring Precursor

Infection is a serious risk following plasma pen treatment. If bacteria enter these micro-wounds, they can impede the healing process and increase the risk of scarring. Redness, swelling, warmth, and pus are key symptoms to look out for.

At times, what appears to be benign erythema post treatment can actually be an initial indication of infection. Prevention through sterile technique during the procedure is key. Clean tools, clean gloves. The providers should be using clean tools.

Patients must be diligent with aftercare instructions to avoid infection and ensure their wounds remain clean.

7. Delayed Healing & Complications

If healing is delayed, there will be ample opportunity for scars and pigment changes to become permanent. Picking at scabs, neglecting aftercare, or using irritating products can prolong healing.

Complications such as burns, deep dermal wounds, or persistent erythema are increased with the misuse of devices. When healing takes a long time, the risk of infection and long-term discoloration increases.

Good aftercare = Happy healing! You should recover more quickly and be less likely to develop complications when you pick scabs, keep your skin moist, and avoid sun exposure.

Why Do These Risks Occur?

The risks of scarring or hypopigmentation with plasma pen treatments stem from a multitude of issues. These include everything from the provider’s skill and the device’s quality to individual healing differences. Thermal disruption, or heat damage, is the main concern of plasma fibroblast therapy.

When the device is either held too close to the skin or is left on the skin for too long, burns and other injuries can occur. These burns can be permanent scars, particularly if an operator does not have the appropriate skill or training. To date, the FDA has never reviewed the Plasma Pen for safety. Other nations, including Canada, have banned it over fears of deadly complications.

Operator Skill and Training

The skill and training of the person doing the treatment must not be underestimated. Specialists who have been properly trained with realistic, effective practice know how to use the device in a way that won’t hurt anyone. They are trained on how to modify the device settings for various skin types and the safest techniques to minimize burn risks.

In sharp contrast, untrained operators can easily mishandle the device, resulting in severe burns and permanent scarring. Not just big errors, even minor ones such as lingering too long on a pad lead to damage.

Device Quality and Settings

Not all plasma pens are created equal. Higher-quality devices provide more effective control and additional safety features. Low quality or counterfeit devices significantly increase this risk, particularly if the device settings are not appropriate for a patient’s skin type.

Employing the incorrect settings may lead to severe burns or patchy outcomes.

Aggressive Treatment Approaches

Providers inappropriately apply excessive power or overly aggressive technique/energy to the skin. This aggressive treatment can lead to a higher risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation.

It’s much safer to customize every treatment to the individual’s skin and goals.

Individual Healing Responses

Each person’s body responds to injury differently. Age, pigmentation, and pre-existing health status play a role in a person’s healing response. Customized, individualized plans to manage scars decrease the risk of permanent marks.

Ignoring Pre/Post Care Advice

Giving proper attention to pre and post care is essential. Not following care instructions can delay healing, increase chances of infection, and increase the likelihood of scarring.

Good aftercare involves good hygiene practices and adhering to all instructions given by the provider.

Your Skin Matters: Risk Factors

Plasma pen treatments generate heat to tighten and lift skin, but the results are unpredictable. There are a lot of different factors that determine how your skin heals and how effective your treatment is going to be. By understanding these risk factors, you and your healthcare provider can determine the safest and most effective way to prepare.

Fitzpatrick Skin Types Impact

Skin type is a major factor influencing the risk of scarring or hypopigmentation. The Fitzpatrick skin types are a classification of skin based on how skin responds to sun exposure. Though all skin types undergo some risk for scarring, lighter types (I–III) can expect faster healing, while darker types (IV–VI) are at greater risk for pigment changes and scarring.

For instance, individuals with a complexion that is darker experienced dark or light patches developing just after burns or trauma. Plasma pens are a sure way to do just that. By customizing the treatment for your skin type, you can significantly reduce those risks.

Pre-Existing Skin Conditions

If you have eczema, psoriasis, or chronic acne, you have a compromised skin barrier. Whether chronic or hereditary, these conditions can inhibit healing and increase the risk of infection or scarring post-plasma pen treatment.

Never hesitate to disclose your skin background. That way, your provider can identify issues sooner and modify your care plan accordingly.

Sun Exposure Habits

Fresh tanning or sunburn damages your skin and increases the risk of further swelling, pigment alteration, or scarring. Applying sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure prior to and during treatment is essential.

Sun exposure habits determine how well your skin heals.

Medications and Health History

Others medicines inhibit the healing or thin UVA-affected skin, such as steroids or blood thinners. Past health conditions, such as diabetes, can further increase the risk of complications.

Only by being fully honest can your provider prevent serious risks such as burns, infections, or even permanent nerve damage!

Previous Cosmetic Procedures

Even older scars or previous cosmetic procedures such as laser, chemical peels, and fillers can affect your skin’s response. The cumulative effects of procedures create compounded damage and trauma, resulting in a weakened dermis, prone to scarring and hyperpigmentation.

Smart Choices: Minimizing Problems

Out of all skin tightening treatments, Plasma pen treatments provide the most incredible results. If not carefully monitored, they can result in adverse events like scarring or hypopigmentation. Taking smart choices before, during, and after the process can minimize these dangers.

It all begins with getting matched up with the right individual and having clear discussions about your goals and expectations, as well as potential outcomes.

Research Qualified Practitioners

Selecting an experienced professional is important. Look for these things:

• Certification in plasma pen procedures
• Years of hands-on experience
• Up-to-date training on safety and hygiene
• Use of FDA-cleared devices
• Solid track record with before-and-after photos

Look for advanced training and specializations. If you have questions about their training, ask and request documentation if you are doubtful. Reviews and testimonials don’t lie—previous clients will give you an unfiltered account of their outcomes or issues.

The Importance of Consultation

It’s just like a doctor’s office — a proper check-in before treatment goes a long way. In a consultation, your professional will properly evaluate your skin type.

They’ll talk to you about your health history and walk you through what the process will be. Now is the time to voice any concerns and establish mutual goals. Discussing potential hazards during the initial planning stages reduces the likelihood of unexpected issues later in the process.

Set Realistic Expectations

Be informed about what plasma pen can achieve and what it is not used for. It’s important to remember that not every skin issue will react the same way.

Stretch marks, deep wrinkles and scars may take longer or not completely fade away. Unrealistic expectations create disappointment, so set realistic expectations and communicate early and often about what’s realistic for you.

Prepare Your Skin Properly

Smart prep helps healing. Tips include:

• No alcohol or smoking a few days before
• Hydrate and keep skin clean
• Avoid harsh exfoliants or retinol
• Avoid sun exposure and use hats with perioral approaches.
• Get enough sleep

Keeping skin healthy sets the stage for good results.

Ask The Right Questions

Key things to ask:

• What are the risks for my skin type?
• How long is healing?
• What should I avoid before and after?
• What aftercare steps work best?
• How do you handle complications?

Getting clear answers helps you know what to expect.

Importance of Post-Treatment Support

It’s not just what treatment you get. Give your skin a break by staying indoors in the sun’s most intense hours.

Avoid cosmetics on the treated area for 7-10 days. Avoid vigorous exercise and hot baths for 3–7 days. If your eyeballs had surgery, you may need to sleep with your head elevated.

Vitamin C is necessary for wound healing. Stay away from germy areas immediately following your class.

Aftercare: Your Healing Journey

Aftercare is an important part of your plasma pen journey. Skincare routine the weeks in between treatments can drastically affect your results. It helps prevent scarring or hypopigmentation from occurring. With good aftercare, you’ll have less risk, quicker healing, and vibrant skin that’s totally on point.

When implemented correctly, most providers in Los Angeles provide instructions that can be easily followed, and following the outline prevents you from making missteps.

Immediate Post-Treatment Care

• Treat the area gently with mild cleanser and lukewarm water.
• Pat dry, do not rub.
• Apply a thin layer of soothing ointment as directed.
• Avoid makeup or similar products without your provider’s explicit approval.
• Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds.
• Skip saunas, pools, and steam rooms.

The best skin is clean and hydrated with the right products. Moisturizing helps foster healing and reduces itchiness. Sun exposure immediately post-treatment increases the likelihood of post-treatment pigmentary changes.

In LA, where UV rays are especially intense, this step is crucial.

Essential Healing Products

• Petroleum jelly or a silicone-based ointment
• Gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
• Hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid

Using gentle, non-irritating products is key to protecting and healing the skin barrier. Ingredients such as panthenol and ceramides help to heal. Do not use any acids or retinoids until instructed to do so by your provider.

Sun Protection Is Crucial

UV rays can cause hyperpigmentation, which can make scars more noticeable and slow healing. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every day. Hats and shade provide additional protection.

Especially in sunny Southern California, where we live, these steps were necessary.

Avoid Irritants and Picking

Picking scabs can lead to scars. Avoid strong scrubs or exfoliants. Give your skin a chance to heal naturally, no matter how tortoise-like the progress may seem.

When To Seek Follow-Up

If you notice infection like pus, increasing redness, or redness or swelling beyond day five, contact your healthcare provider. Consistent follow-up visits will catch complications early on and ensure that your healing is progressing as it should be.

My Take: A Practitioner’s View

Plasma pen treatments are the newest craze taking over LA’s beauty scene. They claim to deliver improved skin texture and firmness with no downtime! Sitting in a practitioner’s chair, I understand the allure. Clients need to come to the table prepared—wide-eyed and bushy-tailed. Providers must report the complete story!

The Allure vs. The Reality

These treatments are incredibly enticing in theory. They induce neocollagenesis, which is scientific speak for inducing the skin to produce more collagen. This can result in actual drying, particularly when combined with post-care products such as our regenerative skin nectar.

What’s the catch here? The allure vs. The reality results rarely live up to the hype. Marketing massage glosses over potential side effects, such as scabbing, redness, or swelling that can last for days.

I get it—some clients walk in the door expecting an immediate fix.

Not A One-Size-Fits-All

Not a one-size-fits-all. No two people heal alike. Skin type, age, and history of previous treatments are important factors to consider. Some people get amazing results and others end up with scarring or hypopigmentation.

That’s why I advocate for customized strategies. I look for sensitivities, and I customize techniques for each client. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, and it’s important to discuss each individual’s risk prior to beginning.

My “Red Flag” Indicators

I stay alert for signs like excessive swelling, persistent redness, or delayed scab healing. So, if a client experiences significant stinging well after application with serums such as Factor Five, I take note.

Prevention through early intervention can help prevent small problems from escalating into major crises.

When I Advise Against It

I will not touch anyone who is known to form keloid scars. I further avoid those with a history of autoimmune disease or hyperpigmentation susceptibility.

There is no FDA approval in the US, and countries such as Canada have put bans on their use. Ethical care requires that we do not reflexively recommend the plasma pen to all patients.

Safer Alternatives To Consider

Microneedling, mild chemical peels, and fractional laser treatments may be more appropriate for others. These can provide skin a more natural enhancement with less danger and downtime.

Considering every alternative ensures we’re picking the most prudent, safest option.

Conclusion

When expertly applied, plasma pen treatments can achieve tighter, smoother skin and a decrease in fine lines. For the risk of scarring or hypopigmentation, it’s a big deal, particularly for people in sunny places like LA. Each individual’s skin will continue to heal differently, resulting in variable results over time. Choosing a qualified practitioner, doing your due diligence and research, asking the appropriate questions and remaining consistent with aftercare can go a long way. Individuals with darker skin types or a tendency to form abnormal scars should consider risks vs benefits. Honest conversation—no procedure is without risk, but taking the right steps reduces the chance of complications. Consult with a licensed skin care professional if you’re not sure or need guidance tailored specifically to your skin. Read up and protect your skin’s health—the surest way to beautiful outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can plasma pen treatments cause permanent scarring?

Can plasma pen treatments leave permanent hyperpigmentation or scarring? Yes, they can if not done properly or after care instructions are missed. Selecting a qualified, experienced practitioner in Los Angeles minimizes this risk.

What is hypopigmentation after plasma pen treatment?

Hypopigmentation is a decrease in skin pigmentation in affected areas. It’s possible in cases where your skin has a negative reaction to the plasma pen or if the skin’s healing process is disrupted.

Who is at higher risk for scarring or hypopigmentation?

Those with darker skin tones, sensitive skin or a history of keloids are at greater risk. Anyone in LA considering a plasma pen treatment should talk to the specialist about their skin type.

How can I minimize the risk of scarring?

To reduce risk take care to follow all aftercare instructions, minimize sun exposure, and select a certified Los Angeles practitioner. Proper aftercare is essential to prevent scarring or hypopigmentation overall smooth healing.

Is plasma pen safe for all skin types?

Is plasma pen safe for everyone? Individuals with higher amounts of melanin, as often found in the diverse population of Southern California, are at a heightened risk for hypopigmentation or scarring.

What should I do if I notice unusual marks after treatment?

What should I do if I notice unusual marks after treatment? Fortunately, most concerns can be resolved with appropriate and prompt treatment, minimizing the risk of long-term complications such as scarring or hypopigmentation.

How long does it take for the skin to heal after plasma pen?

On average, individuals experience the initial stage of healing in 7-10 days. That said, full results and skin color normalization may take several weeks. For more effective, safe and desirable outcomes, always follow your LA provider’s after-care advice.