Microneedling
Aftercare
After microneedling, your skin will be in a sensitive state, so it’s important to follow proper aftercare to promote healing and get the best results. Here are some general post-care instructions for skin needling:
1. Stop Using Retinol (3–5 Days Before) - Retinol and other strong actives can make the skin more sensitive. Stop using retinol or products containing retinoids at least 3 to 5 days before your treatment to reduce irritation.
2. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure (At Least 1 Week Before) - Sunburned skin or recently tanned skin is more vulnerable to damage and irritation during microneedling. Try to avoid prolonged sun exposure for at least a week prior to the procedure, and use broad-spectrum SPF if you're going outdoors.
3. Avoid Waxing or Laser Treatments (1 Week Before) - Waxing or laser treatments can irritate your skin. Allow your skin time to recover, and avoid any such treatments for at least a week before needling.
4. Hydrate Your Skin - Well-hydrated skin will respond better to the procedure. Keep your skin moisturized in the days leading up to your treatment.
5. Avoid Blood Thinners (3–5 Days Before) - If you take any medications that thin the blood (e.g., aspirin, certain supplements like fish oil, or other blood thinners), it’s best to stop using them for about 3 to 5 days before needling to reduce the risk of excessive bruising or bleeding.
6. Shave (If Necessary) - If you have facial hair in the treatment area, consider shaving before your appointment to make the process smoother. Just make sure not to irritate your skin while shaving.
7. Avoid Alcohol (24 Hours Before) - Alcohol can thin the blood and may make your skin more sensitive. Avoid drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours before the procedure to minimize the risk of excessive redness or swelling.
8. Consult with your skin therapist - If you have any skin conditions, such as active acne, rosacea, or eczema, or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, make sure to discuss this with your practitioner beforehand. They may recommend adjusting your treatment plan accordingly.
9. Avoid Exfoliating (3–5 Days Before) - Do not use exfoliating products like scrubs, AHA/BHAs, or enzymes for a few days leading up to your appointment. You want to avoid over-exfoliating, as your skin will be more vulnerable to irritation during microneedling.
1. Avoid Touching Your Face - Refrain from touching your face for the first 24 hours to avoid transferring bacteria, which could lead to infection.
2. Cleanse Gently - You can cleanse your skin with a mild, non-irritating cleanser, but wait at least 6–12 hours after the procedure before doing so. Avoid any exfoliating products.
3. Hydrate and Soothe - Moisturizer: Apply a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin moisturized and prevent dryness. Hydrating Serum: Consider using a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid (avoid products with active ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, or AHAs for a few days).
4. Avoid Sun Exposure - Your skin will be extra sensitive after needling, so avoid direct sunlight for at least 24–48 hours. If you must go outside, use a physical sunscreen (preferably SPF 30 or higher) and wear wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin.
5. No Makeup for 24–48 Hours - Avoid applying makeup for at least 24 hours to allow the skin to breathe and heal. After 48 hours, you can resume makeup but use clean brushes and makeup products to minimize the risk of infection.
6. Avoid Hot Water and Sweating - Avoid hot showers, saunas, or heavy exercise for 48 hours after the treatment. Excessive heat and sweat can irritate the skin and disrupt healing.
7. Do Not Pick or Scratch - Avoid touching, picking, or scratching your skin as it heals. Your skin might peel or flake slightly as it regenerates, but you should let it do so naturally.
8. Stay Away from Active Ingredient - For about 5–7 days, avoid products with active ingredients such as retinol, vitamin C, AHAs/BHAs, or benzoyl peroxide, as they can irritate freshly treated skin.
9. Sleep on Your Back - Try to sleep on your back for the first couple of nights to avoid putting pressure on the treated area.
10. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking - Both alcohol and smoking can impair healing, so try to avoid them in the days following your treatment.
If you experience severe redness, swelling, or any unusual irritation, contact your practitioner or dermatologist for advice.