The Complete Guide to Dermapen Serums: What to Apply During Microneedling

Hyaluronic acid is the foundational Dermapen serum. HA can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, and when delivered directly into the dermis through microneedling channels, it creates an intense hydration reservoir beneath the skin’s surface. The result is immediate plumping, reduced fine lines, and a dewy glow within days.

Clinical-grade HA used during Dermapen is non-cross-linked (unlike dermal fillers), meaning it integrates naturally into the tissue rather than adding volume. Excellent for patients who want visible improvement with zero risk and minimal downtime.

PRP is your own blood plasma concentrated to contain a high density of platelets and growth factors — PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, EGF. During a Dermapen + PRP session (the “Vampire Facial“), a small blood sample is drawn, centrifuged, and applied as the Dermapen creates micro-channels.

The growth factors penetrate directly into the dermal layer, accelerating collagen synthesis, tissue repair, and neovascularisation. PRP is one of the most effective serums for anti-ageing — with the added advantage of being 100% autologous.

Comparing PRP to exosomes? Read our Dermapen Exosome vs Dermapen PRP guide for when each protocol is the right clinical choice.

Synthetic or bio-derived growth factor serums contain concentrated signalling proteins (EGF, FGF, IGF) that stimulate fibroblast proliferation and collagen/elastin production. They offer a similar regenerative boost to PRP without requiring a blood draw.

Particularly effective for mature skin where the body’s natural regenerative capacity has declined.

Tranexamic acid (TXA) works by inhibiting the plasmin pathway responsible for melanocyte activation. Delivered into the dermis through Dermapen, TXA reaches pigment-producing cells at concentrations far higher than topical application — one of the most effective treatments for melasma and resistant pigmentation.

Particularly relevant for Gulf-region patients where UV exposure and skin types prone to hyperpigmentation make melasma common. For under-eye pigmentation specifically, see Innovyal Undereye — TXA + niacinamide for the delicate under-eye area.

PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) derived from salmon DNA activates the adenosine A2A receptor, which promotes anti-inflammatory and tissue-repair pathways. Combined with Dermapen, it supports wound healing, reduces redness, and stimulates fibroblast activity.

Particularly well-suited for sensitive or reactive skin types. The dedicated Dermapen + PDRN protocol at our clinic is AED 1,200 per session (standard AED 1,700).

Stabilised vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid or sodium ascorbyl phosphate) is a potent antioxidant that neutralises free radicals (used also in mesotherapy), inhibits tyrosinase, and is essential for collagen synthesis. Delivered through Dermapen channels, vitamin C reaches the dermis at concentrations that dramatically outperform topical application.

Antioxidant blends with vitamin E and ferulic acid offer synergistic photoprotection — important for Dubai’s high-UV environment, and a practical route to brightening dull, tired-looking skin.