If you’ve ever searched “Which Dr. Pen is best?” or found yourself overwhelmed by microneedling pen options online, this is the post you’ve been waiting for. I’ve used every single Dr. Pen device featured in today’s guide—some for years—and I’m sharing real results, insights, and tips to help you confidently choose the pen that fits your skin goals.
Whether you’re a total beginner, a skincare pro, or looking to upgrade your at-home microneedling experience, let’s break down the best Dr. Pen microneedling pens—A1, A6, A7, M8S—plus a few next-level tools like the Hydra Pen H2, Channel Pro, and Illuma Pigmentation Pen.
Why Microneedling Pens Matter
Microneedling boosts collagen, improves texture, fades scars, and helps with serum absorption—but only if you’re using the right tool. Dr. Pen is one of the most popular brands in the DIY and pro skincare world, offering affordable, effective, and customizable pens with interchangeable needle cartridges.
I’ve been microneedling since 2016—way before it went viral on TikTok—and I’ve seen firsthand how consistent use with a quality pen can completely transform skin.
Pen-by-Pen Breakdown
Dr. Pen A1 Ultima
My first microneedling pen ever.
Max depth: 3.0mm (deeper than any current Dr. Pen)
4 speeds, ergonomic, reliable for face and body
Promotes shedding, smoother texture, and long-term collagen support
Note: A1 cartridges are model-specific—don’t mix with A6!
Best for: Beginners who want deeper penetration for scars or stretch marks. Still a workhorse in 2025.
BONUS: In 2016 I unboxed my Dr Pen A1 on an old Instagram account @PeelMePretty. If you scroll to nearly the bottom you will find this unboxing and one of my first times using it.
Dr. Pen A6 Ultima
Wireless functionality with dual rechargeable batteries
5 speeds, up to 16,000 RPM
Beloved for BB Glow, scalp work, and active serum infusions
Balanced and quiet for home or pro use
Best for: Versatility lovers and those who want wireless ease for face and scalp microneedling.
Dr. Pen A7 Ultima
Premium wired build with 6 speed levels
Power-packed motor: up to 17,000 RPM
Great grip and no drag for precision work
Improves serum absorption by over 500%
Best for: Pros and estheticians. Powerful and ultra-consistent, especially for hair regrowth and pigmentation.
Dr. Pen M8S Ultima
LED display, powerful motor, whisper-quiet operation
Smoothest glide of any Dr. Pen
Lightweight and portable
Best for layering actives without excess trauma
Best for: Sensitive skin users and anyone wanting professional-level results at home. My top pick in 2025.
HOT TIP: I’ve linked my trusted vendor below—it’s the best M8S deal I’ve seen online BUY HERE USE CODE KAOS10
Beyond Microneedling: Specialty Devices Worth Exploring
If you’re ready to explore beyond the classic microneedling pens, here are three innovative devices I also tested:
Illuma Pigmentation Pen
Great for scar camouflage, pigment blending, and PMU
Adjustable speeds with micropigmentation cartridges
Rechargeable and lightweight
BUY HERE ILLUMA PIGMENT PEN USE CODE KAOS20
Use it for: Hyperpigmentation, melasma support, or artistic blending in camouflage treatments.
Channel Pro Pen – Microchanneling
Pro-level delivery of serums through fixed-depth cartridges
Options like 3-tip, 24-round, and 82-flower
Promotes maximum absorption without tearing the skin
BUY HERE CHANNEL PRO PEN CODE KAOS25
Use it for: Smoother results with less downtime, perfect for fine lines and texture improvement.
The Channel Pro pricks and has an impact on collagen induction.
Hydra Needle Pen
Built-in serum delivery
Fixed-depth cartridges pre-filled with actives
Adjustable speed and wireless use
DON’T BUY:
Use it for: Quick glow-ups or beginner-friendly infusion facials at home.
EXTRA INSIGHT: I used this pen on July 23, 2025 during a YouTube Beauty Live linked here. In it you will see this pen has issues and I end up switching to my M8S. Even though this pen in theory seems great it has always been problematic and I can’t reccommend.
How to Choose the Right Cartridge
Choosing the right cartridge is just as important as choosing the right pen.
| Cartridge Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Nano | Product infusion, minimal downtime |
| 9–12 Pin | Scars, fine lines |
| 16–18 Pin | Balanced coverage, anti-aging |
| 24–42 Pin | Full-face infusion and texture refining |
Important: Only use cartridges made for your specific Dr. Pen model. A1 and A6, for example, are not interchangeable.
Pro Tip: Always dial your pen to 0 before inserting a cartridge—this helps lock the cartridge in securely and prevents motor damage.
Dr. Pen Comparison at a Glance
| Device | Power | Depth | Style | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Wired | 3.0mm | Compact | Beginners, deep scars |
| A6 | Wireless | 2.5mm | Dual battery | BB Glow, scalp work |
| A7 | Wired | 2.5mm | Premium grip | Pros, serum infusion |
| M8S | Wireless | 2.5mm | Metal body | Sensitive skin, advanced users |
🏆 My Top Recommendation: Dr. Pen M8S
After years of microneedling experience, the M8S stands out for its combination of power, finesse, and user-friendly features. It’s wireless, glides effortlessly, and delivers consistent results—even on sensitive skin. If you’re looking to invest in a single microneedling pen in 2025, this is the one I’d recommend.
That said, I’ll always love the A1 for sentimental reasons—and its unmatched 3.0mm depth still makes it a unique choice for targeted work.
Where to Buy + What You’ll Need
Trusted vendor with best prices → ACECOSM CODE KAOS10
Microneedling YouTube Playlist
Got Questions? Let’s Chat.
Still unsure which pen is right for you? Drop a comment on the video or drop a post inside the Natural Kaos app—we are here to help you glow smarter.
Don’t forget to watch the full comparison video on my YouTube channel and subscribe for more in-depth skincare breakdowns, treatment demos, and honest reviews.
JOIN US IN THE APP
Hi! I tried to click the M8S link to put your code in and there wasn’t anything available to buy. Can you send me the link here? Thanks!
Hi Stacy! Here is a link that works and you do not have to pay shipping : https://amzn.to/427GsPP , copy and paste into your browser. 😊