What Is Dermashine (Pain-Free Aqua Shine Injection)? Explaining the Differences from Painful Aqua Shine Injections (Rejuran) and Derma Pen!

Dermashine is a dedicated medical device for performing aqua shine injections. Developed in Korea, it is known as a state-of-the-art aesthetic medical device for “pain-free aqua shine injections” and is now used at many aesthetic clinics and dermatology clinics in Japan.

There are mainly two types of Dermashine: “Dermashine Balance” and “Dermashine Pro.” Both are popular because they offer less pain and effective treatment, but the newer “Dermashine Pro” incorporates advanced technology and enables more refined treatment.

Aqua shine injections are a cosmetic medical treatment originating in Korea, also called “Aqua Shine.” The treatment directly injects active ingredients into the dermis using ultra-fine needles. The name comes from the translucent appearance of the skin after treatment, which seems to shine like the surface of water. Dermashine is an advanced medical device developed to perform aqua shine injections more effectively while minimizing pain.

Unlike conventional injection treatments, Dermashine uses ultra-fine needles and a special suction function, significantly reducing pain and downtime such as bruising during injection. It is popular as “lunchtime beauty,” a cosmetic medical treatment associated with little pain that can be received between work and other plans.

Dermashine’s greatest feature is its unique injection system. Compared with conventional aqua shine injections, it has the following features.

・Uniform injection with nine needles
　Each shot uses nine ultra-fine needles (32G–34G) to inject the preparation evenly, providing an even effect across the face.

・Suction function
　The skin is suctioned from within to reduce pain when the needles enter. This is why it is called “pain-free.”

・Automatic injection system
　A fixed amount of the preparation can be injected evenly, reducing variation in results caused by differences in the aesthetic physician’s technique.

・Adjustable injection depth
　The injection depth can be adjusted from 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm according to the skin’s condition and concerns. It can be finely adjusted according to the treatment area and purpose.

Treatment is primarily performed across the face, but it can also be applied to other areas such as the neck and décolletage. A preparation is selected according to the skin’s condition and injected at an appropriate depth, allowing various skin concerns to be addressed.

The procedure is simple: after cleansing and topical anesthesia, the preparation is injected across the face using the dedicated Dermashine handpiece. Treatment usually takes approximately 10 minutes, and being able to return to everyday activities immediately afterward is another major advantage.

Dermashine mainly has two models, “Dermashine Pro” and “Dermashine Balance,” each with its own features.

【Features of Dermashine Balance】

【Features of Dermashine Pro】

At our clinic, we particularly recommend Dermashine Pro. There are several reasons, including the further reduction in pain made possible by its finer needles and its improved injection precision and speed, which allow it to address skin concerns more effectively.

Dermashine Pro is especially recommended for people who are sensitive to pain or seeking stronger effects.

Derma Pen is often compared with Dermashine (aqua shine injections), but the two treatments have clear differences.

【Features of Derma Pen】

【Main differences from Dermashine】

・Injection method
　Dermashine directly injects the preparation into the skin, while Derma Pen creates microscopic holes to promote penetration.

・Suitable preparations
　Dermashine can directly inject liquid preparations such as hyaluronic acid, while Derma Pen is mainly used to promote the penetration of serums.

・Level of pain
　Dermashine generally tends to be less painful.

・Range of effects
　Because Dermashine involves direct injection, it has a strong moisturizing effect, while Derma Pen has a stronger collagen-production effect.

Ideally, each treatment should be selected according to the purpose and skin type. Dermashine is often suitable for seeking surface-level firmness and translucency, while Derma Pen is often suitable for seeking skin regeneration or improvement of acne scars.

Aqua shine injections originated in Korea, but conventional methods, such as Rejuran Healer, primarily involved manual injections performed by hand using a handpiece. Dermashine, by contrast, uses an automatic machine-controlled injection system. Other aqua shine injection devices, such as Hycoox, have also appeared recently, but Dermashine offers advantages even compared with these devices.

【Differences Between Dermashine and Conventional Aqua Shine Injections】

・Significantly less pain
　Because the preparation is injected while the skin is suctioned, there is less pain than with conventional manual injections.

・Shorter treatment time
　Treatment of the entire face takes approximately 10 minutes, less than half the time required by conventional methods.

・Uniform injection
　Machine-controlled injection at a consistent depth and volume results in less variation in effects.

・Less bruising and swelling
　Ultra-fine needles and the suction function minimize downtime.

【Differences Between Dermashine and Other Aqua Shine Injection Devices (Such as Hycoox)】

・Use of premium needles
　Dermashine was the first aqua shine injection device to adopt premium needles, making treatment of the upper eyelids possible.

・Customizability
　The needle exposure, injection volume, number of shots, suction pressure, and other settings can be finely adjusted according to the patient’s condition.

・Depth adjustment
　Injection with a lower needle exposure is possible, enabling effective treatment while minimizing pain.

Conventional Rejuran injections are manually administered one site at a time with a single needle, so results can be influenced by the doctor’s technique. Pain and bruising were also difficult to avoid to some extent. Dermashine addresses these issues and enables more comfortable and effective aqua shine injections.

Recently, devices described as “leak-free aqua shine injection” devices have also appeared, but leakage of the preparation and exudate are different things.

The preparation remaining on the face is a feature of the original manual mesotherapy nappage method. When a preparation remains after using a device, this may be related to the needle exposure, injection volume, and suction-pressure settings; toward the end of treatment, needle dulling may also have an effect. Even with the same settings, uniform injection may not be possible in patients whose skin conditions differ.

Dermashine is not advertised as a “leak-free aqua shine injection device.” However, because it allows injection with a lower needle exposure than other machines, pain is reduced.

Aqua shine injections using Dermashine are a versatile cosmetic medical treatment that can address various skin concerns. Effects vary depending on the preparation used, but the following effects can generally be expected.

By injecting a preparation primarily containing hyaluronic acid, moisture is supplied from within the skin, helping improve fine lines caused by dryness. Hyaluronic acid can retain approximately 6 L of water per gram. By increasing the skin’s water-retention capacity, it can create plump, firm-looking skin.

By delivering hyaluronic acid directly to the dermis, which cannot be reached by ordinary skincare, the treatment produces effects that differ from surface-level care. It may be particularly beneficial for people concerned about dryness during dry seasons or in environments such as air-conditioned rooms.

The physical stimulation of injection may also promote the production of collagen and elastin, so improvement in skin elasticity can be expected. The treatment may support the restoration of the natural firmness that decreases with age.

Because aqua shine injections directly target the dermis, improvement can be expected at a deeper level than surface-level care can reach. The following three concerns are particularly likely to benefit.

・Enlarged pores
　Improved skin firmness may help tighten the appearance of pores. Optimizing the moisture level on the skin’s surface may also make pores less noticeable.

・Fine lines
　Increasing moisture in the dermis may help improve fine lines caused by dryness. The treatment is particularly effective for fine lines around the eyes and mouth that appear with facial expressions.

・Dullness
　Promoting circulation and selecting a preparation containing brightening ingredients may help improve dullness. Promoting skin turnover may also reduce dullness caused by the accumulation of dead skin cells.

Many people notice these effects after a single treatment, but regular treatments may lead to more lasting improvement. The way results appear varies depending on the preparation used, so selecting a preparation suited to your skin concerns is important.

“Aqua shine skin” refers to skin with a glow and translucency that seem to radiate from within, like light reflecting off the surface of water. The term spread from the Korean beauty industry and represents an ideal skin appearance associated with K-beauty.

Aqua shine injections using Dermashine are known as an effective treatment for achieving this “aqua shine skin.” By delivering hyaluronic acid, brightening ingredients, and other substances directly into the skin, the treatment can create an inner radiance that cannot be achieved with surface-level cosmetics alone.

Moisture and firmness from within change the way light is reflected, guiding the skin toward a natural three-dimensional appearance and translucency. Improving the skin itself, which makeup cannot fully conceal, is the key to genuine “aqua shine skin.”

A major feature of Dermashine is that various preparations can be selected according to individual skin concerns. The main preparations and their effects are explained below.

The most common option is a formula based on non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid. Non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid blends easily with tissue and is characterized by a natural finish. It is suitable for people seeking basic moisturizing effects or receiving aqua shine injections for the first time.

Hyaluronic acid is also naturally present in the human body, and its high safety profile is another major advantage. Replenishing the hyaluronic acid that decreases with age may support the restoration of a youthful skin condition.

Dermashine’s basic menu includes the following options.

・Brightening blend
　Contains brightening ingredients such as vitamin C and glutathione, with the aim of improving dullness and evening out skin tone

・Anti-aging care cocktail
　Contains ingredients such as amino acids and peptides and is effective for improving fine lines and sagging

This preparation is recommended for people seeking clear, translucent skin without dullness. It contains ingredients such as vitamin C derivatives and glutathione, which suppress melanin production and promote a brighter skin tone. It is particularly effective for the following concerns.

After Snow White is injected, the skin tone gradually becomes brighter, changing toward a complexion that seems to glow from within. It guides the skin toward greater translucency through both suppression of melanin production and a reducing action that lightens existing melanin.

Combining it with brightening cosmetics may further enhance the effects. It is particularly recommended from before summer through the summer months for people concerned about pigmentation caused by ultraviolet exposure.

Growth factors are a general term for proteins that promote cell proliferation and repair. Adding growth factors to aqua shine injections may enhance the skin’s regenerative ability and support more fundamental improvement in skin quality.

・MPF (Human-Derived Growth Factors)
　Enhances the skin’s ability to repair itself and promotes recovery of damaged skin. It contains a balanced combination of various growth factors and may provide comprehensive skin-improvement effects.

・Human Stem Cell Culture Supernatant
　Promotes activation of skin cells and may promote collagen production. Two types are available: Standard and Premium. Premium has a higher concentration and stronger effects.

These preparations are particularly popular among people in their 30s and older who prioritize anti-aging care. For age groups whose skin turnover tends to slow, activation at the cellular level may produce significant effects.

Juvelook is a formula that emphasizes a firming effect. It is recommended for people concerned about sagging or enlarged pores. Combined with Dermashine’s even injection technique, it may help restore a sharper-looking facial contour.

It is particularly suitable for people concerned about sagging along the facial contour, sagging cheeks, or a double chin. It can provide a more natural and lasting firming effect by targeting the dermis, rather than only tightening the skin’s surface.

Juvelook contains special amino acids and plant extracts and works to improve skin elasticity. It is recommended for people who want to feel a clearer firming effect than that provided by a hyaluronic acid-based formula.

Rejuran is a preparation whose main ingredient is polynucleotides extracted from salmon DNA. It promotes cell repair and regeneration and helps strengthen the structure of the dermis. It is particularly recommended for the following people.

Rejuran activates the skin’s basal metabolism and promotes the production of collagen and elastin. Although manual treatment was previously common, using Dermashine enables more even treatment with less pain.

It is considered particularly effective for repairing damaged skin and is suitable for people seeking long-term improvement in skin quality. Its immediate effects are somewhat less pronounced than those of other preparations, but after 3–5 treatments, patients may feel clearer results.

The Pluryal series is characterized by formulas tailored to specific areas and concerns.

・Pluryal Silk
　Effective for fine lines and dark circles around delicate areas such as the eyes. Its ingredients are tailored to the delicate skin around the eyes, helping maintain a brighter, more youthful appearance.

・Pluryal Densify
　Suitable for improving overall dullness and redness. It increases skin density and creates a healthier, more even complexion.

The Pluryal series is particularly suitable for people who want to target localized concerns precisely. Combining it with treatment of the entire face can guide the skin toward a more balanced overall appearance.

W-PRP uses platelet-rich plasma containing growth factors and cytokines extracted from the patient’s own blood. Because it is autologous, the risk of allergy is low and it promotes more natural skin regeneration. It is suitable for people seeking fundamental improvement in skin quality.

A small amount of blood is first drawn, and W-PRP is extracted using a specialized centrifuge. It is then injected evenly into the skin using Dermashine. Because the patient’s own blood components are used, the risk of rejection is extremely low.

The following effects in particular can be expected:

The cost is somewhat higher than that of other preparations, but it is popular among people seeking more natural and lasting effects.

This section explains the general process of an actual Dermashine treatment.

1. Consultation
　The most suitable preparation and treatment plan are determined based on the skin’s condition and concerns. The patient’s history of allergies and currently used medications are also checked.

2. Cleansing
　Makeup and sebum are thoroughly removed, and treatment begins with clean skin. Carefully removing impurities from the skin’s surface helps reduce the risk of infection.

3. Application of anesthetic cream
　A topical anesthetic cream is applied approximately 30 minutes before treatment to reduce pain.

At this stage, we recommend asking the doctor about anything that concerns you or any questions you may have. Understanding the treatment, expected effects, and precautions in advance can help you undergo the treatment with greater peace of mind.

The actual treatment proceeds as follows.

1. Preparation setup
　The selected preparation is placed in Dermashine’s dedicated cartridge. The doctor selects the appropriate preparation according to the skin’s condition and concerns.

2. Depth setting
　The injection depth is adjusted according to the skin’s condition and treatment area. It is generally set within a range of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm.

3. Treatment
　Treatment is performed evenly across the face. It is often performed in the order of forehead → cheeks → nose → chin → eye area. Because nine ultra-fine needles inject the preparation at once, treatment of the entire face takes approximately 10 minutes.

4. Icing
　The skin is cooled during and after treatment to reduce pain and inflammation.

5. Wiping
　After treatment, any preparation remaining on the skin’s surface is carefully wiped away. Moisturizer or other products may be applied as needed to complete the treatment.

Pain during treatment is minimized through the application of anesthetic cream, icing, adjustment of needle exposure, and optimization of the injection volume and suction pressure. Dermashine Pro in particular further reduces pain through its finer needles and improved suction function. With these measures, many people feel that the treatment is “less painful than expected.”

The following types of care are provided after treatment.

1. Icing
　The skin is cooled immediately after treatment with a cooling pack or similar product to suppress inflammation. This can minimize redness and swelling.

2. Skincare
　Use gentle skincare focused on moisturizing ingredients.

3. UV protection
　Because the skin is sensitive after treatment, take thorough measures to protect it from ultraviolet rays.

Many clinics also conduct a follow-up examination approximately 1 week to 1 month after treatment. The doctor checks the perceived effects and the skin’s condition and adjusts the plan for the next treatment as needed. If you notice any concerning symptoms, please consult the clinic promptly.

Following the points below after treatment can help maximize the effects while minimizing the risk of side effects.

Following these precautions can help maximize the effects of treatment and reduce the risk of skin problems. If you have any concerns, consult the doctor before treatment and receive a thorough explanation of aftercare.

To maximize the effects of Dermashine, it is important to follow appropriate treatment intervals. Understanding how to combine it with other aesthetic treatments can also enable more effective skincare.

The interval between Dermashine treatments varies depending on the preparation used, the patient’s skin condition, and the treatment goals. The following schedule is generally recommended.

1. Initial intensive course
　Undergo 3–5 treatments at intervals of 2–4 weeks to promote basic improvement in skin quality.

2. Maintenance course
　After the initial intensive treatment, maintain the effects with treatment approximately once every 2–3 months.

When receiving Dermashine for the first time, patients initially undergo treatments intensively to promote basic improvement in skin quality. Thereafter, regular maintenance treatments may help sustain the effects.

The duration of effects varies from person to person, but the following are general guidelines.

Dermashine may provide more comprehensive skin-improvement effects when combined with other aesthetic treatments. However, it is important to allow an appropriate interval between treatments.

1. After laser treatment
　When the skin barrier is weakened by laser treatment, the skin becomes sensitive to external stimulation. Therefore, it is recommended to wait approximately 1–2 weeks after laser treatment before undergoing Dermashine.

2. After Peeling
　Peeling also thins the skin’s horny layer, so it is desirable to wait approximately one week until the skin stabilizes.

3. After Botox
　After Botox, it is recommended to wait approximately 2–3 days until the ingredients stabilize.

4. After filler injection
　To avoid physical stimulation, wait approximately 1–2 weeks after injecting filler into the treatment area.

Following the doctor’s advice is the safest and most effective approach when determining treatment combinations and intervals. The appropriate interval varies depending on the individual’s skin condition and treatment details, so we recommend discussing this in detail during the consultation.

The cost of Dermashine varies depending on the clinic, the preparation used, and the treatment area. General price ranges are as follows.

【Basic Fees (Entire Face)】

【Treatment Packages】

Many clinics offer discounted packages combining multiple treatments.

【Partial Treatment】

When treatment is performed on a specific area rather than the entire face, fees are often set as follows:

【Additional Options】

The following options may also be added to the basic treatment:

Many clinics also offer introductory prices or monitor prices, so people receiving treatment for the first time may wish to take advantage of these special prices.

Prices vary by medical institution, so please contact each clinic directly for actual prices. We also recommend receiving a detailed explanation of the fees during the consultation.

All medical treatments involve risks and side effects. With Dermashine as well, it is important to understand its risks, side effects, and who may not be suitable for treatment.

Dermashine is characterized by shorter downtime than conventional aqua shine injections, but results vary from person to person. General downtime is as follows.

1. Redness: May continue for approximately 1–2 days from immediately after treatment
2. Swelling: Mild puffiness may continue for several hours to approximately 1 day
3. Bruising: Small bruises may occur at needle insertion sites but usually disappear within approximately 3–7 days

Downtime can also be controlled by customizing needle exposure, injection volume, and suction pressure according to the patient. If you have plans after treatment, consult the doctor beforehand and ask for adjustments to minimize downtime.

The possible side effects after Dermashine treatment and their recovery periods are as follows.

1. Pain or discomfort: Mild pain or discomfort may occur in the treated area but usually improves within several hours to approximately 1 day.
2. Redness: Temporary redness may occur as an inflammatory response to the injections but usually settles within approximately 1–2 days.
3. Swelling: Mild puffiness may appear but usually improves within approximately 1–2 days.
4. Bruising: Small bruises may occur where the needles were inserted and usually disappear within approximately 3–7 days.
5. Induration (lump): In rare cases, a small hard lump may form at the injection site and usually disappears within approximately 1–2 weeks.

These side effects are temporary, and serious complications are rare. If symptoms persist or you experience abnormalities such as severe pain or fever, consult a doctor promptly.

Dermashine may not be suitable for people in the following categories.

1. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
2. People with a severe tendency toward allergies
3. People with skin inflammation or an infection
4. People with an autoimmune disease
5. People with a blood-clotting disorder
6. People prone to keloids
7. People with another injectable product remaining in the same area

Depending on the preparation used, people with allergies to specific ingredients may also need to avoid treatment. During the pre-treatment consultation, it is important to tell the doctor in detail about your medical history and allergies.

Here are concise answers to frequently asked questions about Dermashine.

Dermashine is characterized by so little pain that it is called a “pain-free aqua shine injection.” With anesthetic cream, icing, and adjustment of needle exposure, many patients describe it as “a slight prickling sensation” or “like being snapped with a rubber band.”

Many people say it is less painful than conventional aqua shine injections, making it relatively easy to undergo even for those sensitive to pain. Pain perception varies from person to person, but telling the doctor about your concerns before treatment may allow them to suggest a method associated with less pain.

In general, makeup can be applied from the day after treatment. However, the doctor may provide different advice depending on the condition of your skin, so follow those instructions.

Because the skin is sensitive on the day of treatment, it is desirable to avoid makeup and use gentle skincare. If you do apply makeup, choose products that are gentle on the skin for 2–3 days after treatment and apply makeup gently.

When ingredients with immediate effects, such as low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, are used, many people notice skin radiance and moisture immediately after treatment. In contrast, ingredients aimed at skin regeneration or long-term improvement, such as growth factors, gradually begin to show effects over several weeks.

The time at which effects are noticed varies from person to person, but general guidelines are as follows.

To experience the maximum effects, it is important to receive the recommended number of treatments, generally around 3–5. As treatments are repeated, skin quality gradually improves and more noticeable effects may be experienced.

Yes, Dermashine can be combined with many aesthetic treatments. However, it is important to allow an appropriate interval between treatments. Examples of effective combinations include the following.

We recommend consulting with a doctor to develop the optimal plan regarding the types, order, and intervals of combined treatments. The ideal combination varies depending on the individual’s skin condition and desired effects.

Dermashine is an innovative cosmetic medical device that significantly reduces pain while maintaining the effects of conventional aqua shine injections. Its major features include precise digital-controlled injection and customization according to the patient, making it a treatment method that can address various skin concerns.

To maximize the effects of treatment, multiple treatments at appropriate intervals and suitable daily skincare are important. Combining it with other aesthetic treatments may also provide more comprehensive skin-improvement effects.

However, all medical treatments involve risks and side effects. It is important to receive appropriate counseling at a reliable medical institution and develop a treatment plan suited to your skin’s condition. If you are considering Dermashine, use the information in this article as a reference and consult your doctor carefully.