Microneedling in Peabody, Boston – SkinPen + PRP & Exosomes.
Microneedling is not a new trend—it’s a well-established treatment backed by science and clinical use for decades. The technique involves creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin using sterile needles, which initiates a natural healing cascade and stimulates collagen and elastin production. Since 2014, Our expert Cosmetic MD Dr. Shanthala in Peabody uses SkinPen— a FDA-cleared microneedling device—and often combine it with regenerative ingredients like platelet-rich plasma (PRP), exosomes, and peptides to enhance results. This approach allows us to address specific concerns like acne scars, fine lines, and uneven skin texture with precision and minimal downtime.
1.What Is Microneedling and How Does It Work
Microneedling, also called collagen induction therapy, uses sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers the body’s natural wound-healing cascade—stimulating collagen, elastin, and cellular renewal. Cold needling is not the best stand-alone skin-tightening treatment; it is more akin to skin rejuvenation. We use SkinPen, an FDA-cleared microneedling device, to ensure precision and safety.
2. MD performed Medical Microneedling in Peabody.
Microneedling has remained a favorite for decades because it improves skin tone, texture, and radiance, with minimal downtime. It’s safe for all skin types, including melanin-rich skin, and can be performed year-round. Our expert Aesthetic MD since 2014 located in Peabody personally performs all treatments for fine lines, enlarged pores, acne scars, stretch marks, and more. Read our RealSelf Patients’ experience here. Explore our Before and After photos.
3. ShanthalaMD Signature Microneedling: PRP, Peptides, and Exosomes
ShanthalaMD is known for physician performed signature skin resurfacing, often combine Lasers, RF, Intensif RF Microneedling and Skinpen in using Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for healing and regeneration. Exosomes to boost skin recovery and achieve a radiant glow. Medical-grade peptides & vitamin C for enhanced skin absorption. We also combine it with subcision and dermal injectables for acne scars and more complex concerns.
4. Is Microneedling better than a laser?
Microneedling and laser resurfacing are both effective skin rejuvenation treatments, but they work differently and serve different purposes. Skinpen is non-thermal and typically better tolerated, with minimal downtime and lower risk of pigmentation, especially in darker skin types. Lasers such as CO2 or Ultraclear may offer more dramatic results for deeper wrinkles or scarring, but often require more recovery time and carry a higher risk of side effects. The choice between the two depends on the patient’s skin type, treatment goals, and their ability to manage downtime. In many cases, they can be safely combined for enhanced results.
5. Home Microneedling: Proceed With Caution
While at-home rollers exist, they often lack the depth and sterility required for effective collagen induction—and can risk infection if improperly used. More importantly, Dr. Shanthala advices on strict post-treatment serums such as EPICUTIS medical-grade quality. Using the wrong product after home rollers can result in allergic reactions or long-term infection, dermatitis or pigmentation issues.
6. What to Expect: Results, Downtime, and Aftercare after Microneedling
Most patients experience:
• Mild redness and pinpoint bleeding for 24–48 hours
• Noticeable skin improvement after 2–3 sessions
• Little to no disruption of daily life
Post-treatment care is essential. We treat aftercare like laser recovery—guiding patients with a strict protocol to avoid complications and enhance results.
7. Is Microneedling Right for You?
It is safe for almost all skin types and ages—but it’s not for everyone. If you’re prone to keloids, active acne, or skin infections, we’ll guide you toward safer alternatives. Every treatment is customized to suit the individual’s age, skin type, and specific skin concerns. Book your consultation today with our board-certified MD to learn more.

Dr. Shanthala Shivananjappa MD
Dr. Shanthala is a board-certified, Harvard trained anesthesiologist, assistant professor at Yale University, and staff at Massachusetts General Hospital prior to opening her cosmetic medicine clinic. Her extensive experience working with plastic surgical patients in the operating room for more than 25 years, paired with years of training in non-surgical cosmetic procedures, has enabled Dr. Shanthala to have a unique perspective on Anti-aging treatments.
