![[Hayakawa-sensei x Nanari-sensei Dialogue] What are the differences between Potenza and Dermapen? A thorough comparison of tips, downtime, and effects.](https://www.elm-clinic.jp/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/potenza_vs_dermapen_thumbnail.png)
Introduction | Even though they are both "needles," their mechanisms are completely different.
Many people wonder, "What's the difference between Potenza and Dermapen?" Both are treatments that use needles to address skin problems, but their mechanisms, tip types, downtime, and the types of problems they are best suited for are different.
In this article, Dr. Hayakawa from Elm Clinic Fukuoka and Dr. Nanari from Elm Clinic Kobe discuss the differences between the two procedures in an easy-to-understand format, along with explanations of five different tip types and seven case studies.
- Potenza's mechanism (microneedle RF) and the characteristics of its 5 types of chips
- The mechanism of Dermapen and its essential differences from Potenza
- Difference in downtime by chip
- Guide to Choosing Products Based on Pores, Craters, Acne, and Sagging Skin
- Changes in 5 Potenza cases + 2 Dermapen cases
*This article is a revised and expanded version of the content from the YouTube video.
- Introduction | Even though they are both "needles," their mechanisms are completely different.
- What is Potenza? | Microneedle RF combining needles and heat
- Potenza | Features and Usage of 5 Types of Tips
- What is Dermapen? | It regenerates collagen through needle stimulation.
- Comparison of Potenza and Dermapen
- Case studies showing the effects of Potenza
- Case studies showcasing the effects of microneedling.
- Summary | Find the right person for you through counseling
What is Potenza? | Microneedle RF combining needles and heat
Potenza is a device called "microneedle RF." It inserts tiny needles (microneedles) into the skin while simultaneously delivering radiofrequency (RF) thermal energy deep into the skin. Furthermore, with the CP tip, it is also possible to directly introduce medication through the needle punctures.This device simultaneously delivers three effects: acupuncture stimulation, high-frequency heat, and medication.This is its biggest feature.
Potenza | Features and Usage of 5 Types of Tips
At Elm Clinic, we stock five different types of Potenza tips, and we use them according to the specific concerns of each patient.
| Chip name | Main concerns | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| CP chip | Crater, pore, and skin texture improvement | A 3-way treatment combining needles, radiofrequency, and drug delivery. Drugs can be selected from MACUM, Botox, and growth factors. |
| S-tip | Redness and telangiectasia (melasma) | Needle therapy + radiofrequency only. Directly targets blood vessels. |
| A1 Tip (Acne Mode) | Recurring inflammatory acne | A single needle directly cauterizes the sebaceous glands to prevent new acne breakouts. |
| diamond tip | Sagging and firming | Tightens skin from the surface with heat without the need for needles. Almost zero downtime. |
| SFA chip | Fine lines and firmness | High-frequency waves are applied only to the shallow layers. This provides immediate surface improvement. |
What is Dermapen? | It regenerates collagen through needle stimulation.
Dermapen is a treatment that creates tiny wounds in the skin by inserting needles, and stimulates collagen production during the healing process. Unlike Potenza,It does not have high-frequency heat or drug delivery functions; it regenerates collagen solely through needle stimulation.We will approach them.
- The simple action of inserting and removing needles stimulates collagen regeneration.
- Only one type of tip is available (needle only). Adjust by changing the depth.
- It can be used not only on the face but also on the body (such as the upper arms).
- The downtime is longer than with Potenza (around 4 days).
- For those who are afraid of pain, the depth can be adjusted to be shallower. The treatment time is short.
Comparison of Potenza and Dermapen
| Comparison item | Potenza | Dermapen |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Needle therapy + radiofrequency (RF) + drug delivery | Needle stimulation only (collagen regeneration) |
| Tip types | 5 types (CP, S, A1, Diamond, SFA) | 1 type (adjustable by depth) |
| Drug introduction | Yes (selectable with CP chip) | None |
| downtime | (Diamonds take almost zero days, CP takes 1-2 days) | Approximately 4 days (redness tends to be more pronounced) |
| Applicable part | Mainly face | Face and body (upper arms, etc.) |
| Suitable for | I want to see results quickly, minimize downtime, and address my concerns with different tips. | I want to try it out easily, I'm worried about pain, and I have some physical concerns. |
Case studies showing the effects of Potenza
Porcelain-like skin with Potenza | Case study after 3 treatments
This is a case study of a patient who was concerned about uneven skin texture and dullness due to enlarged pores.I received three treatments of the porcelain-skin Potenza treatment, and one month after the three treatments, my skin texture became smoother.
- Our Treatments
- Porcelain-like finish Potenza (3 applications)
- Treatment amount
- 242,400 JPY (TAX+)
- Side effects/risks
- Redness, pain, swelling, internal bleeding, pregnancy not allowed
*The effects may vary from person to person.
Strawberry nose treatment with Potenza | Case study after 2 treatments
This is a case study of a patient who was concerned about clogged pores and blackheads around their nose.Two weeks after two treatments, my nose became cleaner with fewer clogged pores.
- Our Treatments
- Strawberry Nose Potenza 2 times
- Treatment amount
- 69,600 JPY (TAX+)
- Side effects/risks
- Redness, swelling, pain, edema, internal bleeding, pregnancy not allowed
*The effects may vary from person to person.
Crater Potenza Treatment | Case Study of 3 Treatments
This is a case study of a patient who was troubled by acne scars and craters.After three treatments, the craters become shallower and the pores tighten.
- Our Treatments
- Crater Potenza 3 times
- Treatment amount
- 242,400 JPY (TAX+)
- Side effects/risks
- Redness, heat sensation, microcrust
*The effects may vary from person to person.
Acne Potenza | Case study of 3 treatment sessions
This is a case study of a patient who suffered from recurring inflammatory acne.After three treatments, the inflammation subsided, and the overall redness of my skin improved significantly.
- Our Treatments
- Acne Potenza 3 times
- Treatment amount
- 80,400 JPY (TAX+)
- Side effects/risks
- Redness/temporary worsening of acne
*The effects may vary from person to person.
Redness from Potenza | Case study after 3 treatments
This is a case study of a patient who was troubled by redness all over their face.After three treatments, the redness was significantly reduced, and my skin tone became more even.
- Our Treatments
- Redness Potenza 3 times
- Treatment amount
- 134,400 JPY (TAX+)
- Side effects/risks
- Redness, heat sensation, microcrust
*The effects may vary from person to person.
Case studies showcasing the effects of microneedling.
Upper Arm Dermapen Treatment | Case Study of 12 Treatments
This is a case study of a patient who was concerned about keratosis pilaris (bumps) on their upper arms.After 12 sessions of Dermapen treatment, the bumps on the surface of my skin improved.Dermapen is a treatment that can be used on the body as well as the face.
- Our Treatments
- Upper arm microneedling (12 sessions)
- Treatment amount
- 277,200 JPY (TAX+)
- Side effects/risks
- Redness, swelling, itchiness, pain, swelling, internal bleeding, pregnancy not allowed
*The effects may vary from person to person.
Dermapen | Case study of 6 treatment sessions
This is a case study of a patient who was concerned about the uneven texture and skin condition caused by acne scars.My skin's smoothness improved after 6 treatments.
- Our Treatments
- Dermapen 6 times
- Treatment amount
- 129,000 JPY (TAX+)
- Side effects/risks
- Redness, swelling, itching, dryness, scabs
*The effects may vary from person to person.
Summary | Find the right person for you through counseling
- Potenza is a 3-way treatment combining needles, radiofrequency (RF), and medication. Five different tips address pores, acne scars, acne, sagging skin, and redness.
- Dermapen stimulates collagen regeneration solely through needle stimulation. It can also be used on the body (such as the upper arms).
- Downtime is 1-2 days with the Potenza CP tip, and almost zero with the diamond tip. Dermapen takes about 4 days.
- Potenza is suitable for those who want quick results and a short recovery time.
- For those who want to try something easily or have concerns about their body, Dermapen is also an option.
- Which option is more suitable will be determined during the consultation while examining your skin condition.
Both Potenza and Dermapen are excellent treatments, but they work differently and address different concerns. At Elm Clinic, we propose the most suitable treatment for each patient based on their individual skin condition and needs. Please feel free to come in for a consultation.
*This article is a revised and expanded version based on a YouTube video. Individual results may vary. Please confirm the treatment details, fees, and risks during your consultation.
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![[Explained by Dr. Nanari] Potenza vs. Dermapen: A Half-Face Comparison! Examining the Differences in Redness, Downtime, and Effectiveness](https://www.elm-clinic.jp/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/potenza-vs-dermapen-halfface-thumbnail.png)
