We have sold Dr. Pen devices for seven years, and this guide is built from what customers actually ask us. Where we could not verify a specification ourselves, we have left it out rather than guess.

Dr. Pen model comparison

A20 specifications come from the manufacturer's published documentation; M8 figures from the guide in the box. Current prices are on each product page — click any model above.

Start with the cartridges

Dr. Pen A20 — the current flagship

The A20 is the newest professional device and the one we restock most often. AVOS vertical oscillation, nine needle-depth settings from 0 to 2.0mm in 0.25mm increments, six speed levels up to 7,700 RPM, 700mAh battery over Type-C. FDA 510(k) cleared. Ships with two 14-pin cartridges, a charging dock, ten disposable protective sleeves and a guide.

The fixed depth steps are its real advantage. Every other model uses a continuous dial, which means you set depth by eye and hope to land in the same place next session. For scar work — where consistency across months of sessions is the entire point — that difference matters more than any speed figure.

Buy it if you treat clients, you want repeatable depth settings, or you want the widest cartridge choice we stock.
Consider something else if this is your first pen for home use on your own face. It is several times the price of the M8 and more device than most people need to start with.

Dr. Pen M8S — the hair loss choice

The M8S is the model most often bought for scalp and hair-loss treatment, and the reason is specific: its cartridges use an improved anti-backflow design.

Here is what that means in practice. Working flat across the face, serum stays where you put it. Working the scalp, you hold the pen at an angle — and with a standard cartridge some serum can travel back into the housing. On the face it is barely noticeable. On the scalp it is the thing people mention most.

There is also an M8S Anti-Hair Loss Bundle with the scalp cartridges included. Full breakdown in Dr. Pen M8 vs M8S.

Dr. Pen M8 — the best value in the range

The M8 runs a motor up to 18,000 RPM — the fastest in the range — with six speed levels and 0 to 2.5mm depth on a four-hour battery, shipping with two 16-pin cartridges.

It sits in an unusual position: the fastest motor at our lowest price. Its cartridges are also the most affordable of any platform we stock, which over a couple of years of regular use is worth more than the difference in device price.

Cartridge range: 11, 16, 36, 42 and nano pin. With spares included: M8 Starter Kit.

A6S and HydraPen H3

The A6S Ultima is a capable home device that works corded or cordless. It currently sits above the M8 in price with a slower motor, so unless you particularly want the A6S cartridge range, the M8 offers more for less.

The HydraPen H3 does something different — it releases serum through the cartridge head as you work, so product enters the micro-channels as they open. It is a companion to an adjustable-depth pen rather than a replacement for one.

Which needle count should you use?

Pin count changes coverage per pass, not penetration. Depth is set on the device; pin count is what is in the cartridge.

• Nano — silicone-tipped, works the surface only. Serum infusion, pore appearance, texture.
• 11 to 16 pin — targeted work. Anti-ageing, hair loss, smaller areas, precision on scars.
• 24 to 42 pin — larger surface areas, more skin covered per pass, gentler pressure distribution.

Full detail in our cartridge guide and needle depth guide. Every cartridge is single use.

Frequently asked questions

Are M8 and M8S cartridges interchangeable?

No — each model has its own cartridge system. Check which device you own before ordering replacements, or send us a photo and we will confirm it for you.

Which Dr. Pen is best for hair loss?

The M8S, because of its anti-backflow cartridge design during scalp work with serum. The A20 is also used for this, with 12-pin or 14-pin cartridges.

Which Dr. Pen is best for acne scars?

The A20 for its fine depth control in 0.25mm increments, or the M8 if budget is a consideration. For scar work the depth setting matters more than the device, and both allow precise adjustment.

Is the Dr. Pen A20 FDA cleared?

Yes. The A20 holds FDA 510(k) clearance.

How often should I replace cartridges?

Every treatment. Cartridges are sterile, single-use items and are not designed to be cleaned and reused.

Which Dr. Pen should I buy first?

If cost is the deciding factor, the M8 — our lowest-priced device, with the most affordable cartridges. If you want the device most of our customers choose, the A20. If you are treating hair loss specifically, the M8S.

How to buy a genuine Dr. Pen

Counterfeit Dr. Pen devices are common and they are not safe to use on skin. Genuine units can be authenticated through Dr. Pen's manufacturer security-verification system using the code on the box. If a listing is priced far below what official stockists charge, it is worth verifying before you buy.

Please speak with your doctor before purchasing any Dr. Pen product. This content is not intended to substitute for the advice of a qualified physician, pharmacist or other licensed healthcare professional.