The short answer: Dermapen 4 is best known for improving skin texture, acne scarring, fine lines, enlarged pores and pigmentation. HIFU focuses on lifting and firming by stimulating collagen deeper in the skin. Both work by encouraging your skin’s own collagen, but they target different concerns. The right choice depends on what bothers you most, and sometimes the answer is both.
What is Dermapen 4?
Dermapen 4 is a microneedling treatment, also called collagen induction therapy. Fine needles create tiny, controlled channels in the skin, which prompts your skin to repair and renew itself, including producing new collagen.
What does Dermapen 4 treat?
At Skin + Wax Clinic, we use Dermapen 4 for:
- Acne scarring
- Fine lines
- Enlarged pores
- Uneven skin texture
- Pigmentation
What is HIFU?
HIFU stands for high-intensity focused ultrasound. It’s a non-surgical treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production beneath the skin’s surface. It’s often chosen by people who want a firmer, more lifted look without surgery.
What is the main difference between Dermapen and HIFU?
| Dermapen 4 | HIFU | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Microneedling / collagen induction | Focused ultrasound |
| Works mainly on | Skin surface and texture | Collagen beneath the surface |
| Best known for | Scarring, fine lines, pores, texture, pigmentation | Firming and lifting |
| Session time | About 45 to 60 minutes | From 20 to 90 minutes, depending on the areas treated |
| Sensation | Prickly but bearable | Mild discomfort or warmth |
| Downtime | Mild redness for 24 to 48 hours | None |
| Sessions | At least 6 | At least 2 |
| Results | Build gradually over a course | Build over 2 to 3 months |
| Cost (from) | $299 | $217 |
Which one is right for me?
Here’s an honest rule of thumb:
- Choose Dermapen 4 if your main concerns are acne scarring, texture, enlarged pores, fine lines or pigmentation.
- Choose HIFU if your main concern is a loss of firmness and you’d like a non-surgical option with no downtime.
- Consider both if you have a mix of concerns. They work in different ways, so a well-planned Skin Plan can include both.
You don’t need to decide alone. Our free Observe Skin Scanner consultation helps us look at your skin and recommend what makes sense.
Does Dermapen 4 hurt?
Dermapen 4 feels quite prickly, but it’s bearable, and most clients tell us it’s worth it. Comfort varies from person to person, and we’ll talk you through what to expect before we begin. Afterwards, your skin is usually mildly red for 24 to 48 hours.
Does HIFU hurt, and is there downtime?
Most people describe mild discomfort or a sensation of warmth. There’s no downtime, so you can generally get on with your day.
How many sessions will I need?
As a guide:
- HIFU: at least 2 sessions
- Dermapen 4: at least 6 sessions
Collagen takes time to build, so patience pays off. HIFU results build over 2 to 3 months, and Dermapen 4 works progressively across a course. We can’t promise specific results, as every person’s skin responds differently, but a structured plan gives your skin the best opportunity.
How much do they cost?
At Skin + Wax Clinic, prices start from:
- HIFU: $217
- Dermapen 4: $299
We’ll confirm the cost of your recommended plan during your consultation.
Why have these treatments at Skin + Wax Clinic?
Our founder Tammy Wakely is an award-winning paramedical skin technician with more than 20 years of experience, and the clinic has been going since 2013. We’ve won ABIA QLD Salon of the Year 2025, Circadia Clinic of the Year 2025, Circadia Clinic of the Year Queensland 2026, the Murad Excellence Award 2026 and the Phorest 5-Star Client Experience Award 2026, and we hold 4.9 stars on Google with over 1,000 reviews.
Most importantly, we recommend what suits you, not whatever’s most expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have Dermapen 4 and HIFU together? They work differently, so many people use both as part of a longer-term plan. We’ll advise on timing and what suits your skin.
Which is better for acne scars? Dermapen 4 is used for acne scarring. We’ll assess your skin to recommend the best approach.
Which has less downtime? HIFU has no downtime. Dermapen 4 usually involves mild redness for 24 to 48 hours.
How do I find out which one I need? Book a free Observe Skin Scanner consultation. We’ll look at your skin and talk through your goals before you commit to anything.
Find out what your skin needs
Click here to book your free consultation online or call us on 07 4325 4060.
We’re at Shop 44, Pialba Place, Pialba (Hervey Bay), and we’d love to help.