A topical numbing cream is applied first, so most clients describe a light vibrating or sandpaper-like feeling rather than pain.

Most clients do a series of four to six treatments about a month apart, then return once a season for maintenance.

Expect redness for about 24 hours, then a manageable pink and some light flaking or dryness. There is no major downtime past the first day.

Many clients notice a fresh glow once skin settles. Collagen keeps building for weeks after each visit, so scarring and texture improve over your series.

Not over active breakouts. We clear acne first with an acne consultation and program, then treat scarring with SkinPen once skin is clear.

No. HydraFacial, Dermaplane Facials and Lactic Acid Peels are pregnancy-safe alternatives we offer.

Per the manufacturer's safety guidelines, we cannot perform SkinPen for clients who are:

• Pregnant or nursing
• On isotretinoin (such as Accutane) within the past six months
• Experiencing active acne, or severe rosacea, eczema or psoriasis in the area
• Dealing with an active infection, cold sore, open wound or irritated skin in the area
• Living with active skin cancer, raised moles or actinic keratosis in the area
• Prone to keloid scarring
• Managing a bleeding disorder or taking blood thinners
• On immunosuppressive therapy, or with collagen vascular disease, scleroderma or wound-healing problems
• Allergic to stainless steel or local anesthetics
• Treating scars or stretch marks less than a year old

Licensed estheticians certified through state board-approved microneedling courses, on a team led by an esthetician with 14 years of experience.

Live by Skin is at 52 Pleasant Street in Woburn, MA, open seven days by appointment. Clients visit from Winchester, Burlington, Lexington, Stoneham, Reading, Medford, Bedford, Waltham, Belmont, Arlington, Lynnfield, Wakefield, Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Malden and Charlestown.