Microneedling Aftercare: Do’s and Don’ts For Best Results

Published November 17, 2023

Microneedling has our back in the pursuit of better-looking skin. It is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment. It is done to stimulate our blood circulation. It is proven to enhance the appearance of scars. Also, it increases collagen production. 

It is an excellent skin procedure. It’s a worthy investment. Yet, something that isn’t often discussed is the microneedling aftercare regime. 

This treatment punctures our skin. So, we must protect our skin barrier as it heals. After that, our skin is more sensitive. It is because the tiny punctures are undergoing proper healing. For this reason, we can’t follow our usual skincare routine. We also need to steer clear of some products for the first few days. 

To help enlighten you on the proper microneedling aftercare, keep on reading. We’ll discuss everything you need to learn about what to expect after the famous beauty treatment. We’ll get in debt on its recovery, healing stages, aftercare do’s and don’ts, and more. Let’s start. 

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling is also acknowledged as Collagen Induction Therapy. In this procedure, the practitioner uses a tool with tiny needles to prick your skin. The point of it is to facilitate new collagen production. Collagen production can create smooth and toned skin. 

Microneedling has become one of the most famous in-and-out procedures. It is all thanks to its ability to tackle a wide range of skin concerns effectively. From signs of aging to acne scars? It got you. 

It is minimally invasive. It also takes only a matter of minutes. It often requires minimal downtime. The icing on top? Its effects are lasting. It is excellent for facial rejuvenation. It helps with scarring. More so, it can lessen fine lines and wrinkles. Lastly, it aid in decreasing pore size.

Benefits of Microneedling

1. Soften fine lines 
2. Face acne scars 
3. Fight ultraviolet (UV) damage, such as hyperpigmentation and age spots
4. Shrinks pores 
5. Brighten skin 
6. Lessen the appearance of stretch marks 

Microneedling Recovery

After you have your microneedling procedure, some side effects will manifest. 

When you leave your appointment, your complexion may be flushed or bright red. It is going to have spent the entire day out in the sun. It mimics a mild to moderate sunburn. 

The redness you experience from it will mostly be faced within two days. Other symptoms might take lightly to recover. These are possible peeling and breakouts. 

Most visible recovery from microneedling will occur in the first day or two after the procedure. Yet, the healing will still be happening under the surface of your skin. It is the case for up to 2 months afterward. 

Even with consistent aftercare, there’s only so much you can do to alleviate the redness immediately post-procedure. Swelling is normal for up to 48 hours. Flaking or peeling after microneedling can also occur normally. 

Bumps, breakouts, and dryness. The three are also standard post-micro needling. Yet, not everyone will experience them. 

Microneedling Healing Stages: Microneedling Day by Day

1. 60 Minutes. Redness and possible spot bleeding. The pores are still open. 
2. Up to 24 hours. Rash, red dots, minor swelling. 
3. One to two days. Red dots, rash, reduced swelling, minor itching, dry/tight sensation. 
4. Two to three days. Reduced risk, fading of red dots, dissipated swelling, decreased itching, minor skin flaking. 
5. Three to four days. Potential slight dryness. 
6. Four to five days. Full recovery with normalized function. 
7. Three weeks. Improvement in pigmentation begins. 
8. Four to six weeks. Improvement in lines, wrinkles, and scarring starts. 

Microneedling Aftercare: Dos

1. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. 

Less is more after microneedling. Right after microneedling, you should also not wash your face. Wait for at least 24 hours. Doing so will allow any serums, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), or stem cell/growth factors on your skin to continue to be absorbed. Wash your face using only bland cleansers. Also, emollients that are fragrance and oil-free. 

2. Minimal, healing skincare 

Follow with serum products recommended by your provider. You should also look for gels that offer a semi-occlusive protective barrier. You may apply thicker products. Still, limit it to those crafted for post-procedure care if you have a dry complexion.

3. Drinks lots of water 

Proper hydration will aid in successful skin cell regeneration. Keep a full water bottle at your side all the time. 

4. Apply SPF 

Skin is susceptible to sun damage after microneedling. Sunscreen should be applied daily. It should also often be reapplied for two weeks post-treatment. 

5. Moisturize 

Moisturizer is the bedrock of skincare. It nourishes it and keeps it plump. It also gives your collagen-creating systems a healthy boost of hydration. After the procedure, your skin will feel a little dryer. Also, redder than normal. A dab of a gentle moisturizer can help ease redness. It will also lock in luscious hydration.

Microneedling Aftercare: Don’ts

1. Working out/heavy physical activity 

Avoid working out or sweating for the first few days. It can clog pores and lead to infections and breakouts. Steer clear of any saunas, steam rooms, and hot showers. 

2. Sun exposure 

Stay out of the sun as much as you can. Yet, if this can’t be avoided, wear a wide-brimmed hat. It will shield your face from it. Apply a high-SPF sunscreen that is also hydrating. 

3. Makeup 

Face makeup could give dirt and bacteria to your complexion. It is also best to avoid wearing makeup for the first few days. 

4. Active ingredients/exfoliation 

It is also best to steer clear of any and all beauty products containing retinoids, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA. No scented products, too. It is best not to exfoliate. Do not scrub. Do not attempt to get any more facial treatments in the meantime, too. These are lasers, peels, and waxing. 

5. Skincare devices 

Stash away skincare tools as you heal from microneedling. They can irritate your complexion and lead to infection. These include jade rollers, gua sha, and circulation-boosting devices. 

Microneedling Healing Time

Microneedling healing time can differ for everyone. Yet, the general healing process usually takes around 5-7 days. During this time, the skin goes through different stages of healing. It’s crucial to follow microneedling aftercare. It is to ensure optimal recovery and results.