Skin Care Tips For Microneedling Aftercare
Microneedling Healing Stages: What to Expect
Before you undergo your microneedling treatment, it’s important you understand what your aftercare instructions will be. You can discuss this during your consultation with the Skin Technique team and read this helpful aftercare guide, so you are fully prepared.
There are some general rules you should follow before your procedure:
- Do not use topical agents that increase skin sensitivity a week before your treatment.
- Do not take anti-inflammatory medications at least 3 days prior to your treatment.
- Avoid laser procedures, sunburn, or prolonged exposure to the sun for 2 weeks before your treatment.
- Don’t wax, shave, or partake in electrolysis to the treatment area one week prior.
- Avoid blood thinning medications and agents one week prior to your microneedling treatment.
Days 1-3
For the first few days following your microneedling treatment, it is normal to feel like you have a sunburn. You may experience tight, dry, or sensitive skin, and you should treat it by gently washing it with a cleanser free of harsh chemicals or scents, cool water, and your hands. Pat dry and wait at least 4 hours after treatment to wash your face. Redness may also be present, and you may experience slight bruising and swelling.
Avoid strenuous activities that cause you to sweat for the first 48 hours after your treatment, try to avoid using makeup for the first day following your treatment, and sleep on your back with your head elevated to minimize swelling.
Days 2-7
Peeling may begin 3-5 days after your microneedling treatment due to dryness and flaking due to an increased turnover of skin cells. It’s extremely important not to pick at or exfoliate the treated skin. Allow old skin to flake off and keep it moisturized at all times. The Skin Technique team will recommend some products to use for you to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Days 5-7
In the week following your microneedling procedure, you can return to your regular skincare regimen once your skin no longer feels irritated. You will notice skin improvement in the months following your treatment, but for best results, we recommend repeating your treatment every 4-6 weeks for a series of 3-5 treatments.
Aftercare Tips
The Skin Technique team of doctors and nurses will give you detailed aftercare instructions prior to your microneedling treatment that is catered to your specific skin type and medical history. If you are new to microneedling and don’t know how to maintain your skin post-appointment properly, below are some aftercare tips to ensure you heal fully and enjoy your rejuvenated skin.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is integral to taking care of your health and skin. After your microneedling procedure, water is essential for the collagen production process – the more hydrated you are, the more healthy collagen cells your body can produce.
Protect Your Skin From The Sun
Sunscreen or a moisturizer with SPF should be applied daily as a general rule of thumb, but you will want to ensure you apply sunscreen constantly for the first 2 weeks following your microneedling treatment. Do not go outside without sunscreen, and do not spend prolonged time in the sun for the first week, as you will be more susceptible to sun damage.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!
Apply your moisturizer twice daily to keep your skin nourished and hydrated. Your skin will feel dry and appear red, so moisturizer can help reduce these symptoms. Skin Technique offers the LEXXEL Moisturizing Cream to lock in moisture, which is ideal for post-treatment care.
Clean Your Face Carefully
Avoid harsh cleansers after your treatment, as you could increase redness, irritation, and dry skin. Wash your hands thoroughly before washing your face, and use lukewarm water with a gentle cleanser. Pat your face dry with a clean towel.
Avoid Infection
To avoid infection, use topical creams your doctor prescribes after your procedure, and always wash your hands before touching your face. Avoid using makeup in the 24 hours following your microneedling procedure, and protect your skin by avoiding swimming pools, strenuous exercise, and saunas for the first 3 days following your treatment.
Skincare Products to Use After Microneedling
Make sure you tell your Skin Technique surgeon about any cleansers, toners, scrubs, and moisturizers you use during your consultation so they can adjust your aftercare instructions accordingly and provide recommendations.
Hyaluronic acid is often recommended to help stimulate collagen production, and the Skin Technique clinic will offer products to use following your procedure, including the Gentle Cleanser. If your skin is feeling dry, remember to moisturize and use natural products such as coconut oil to lock in hydration. Stick to a gentle cleanser with natural ingredients, and make sure your towels are clean.
Avoid Exfoliants, Retinol, and Vitamin C
Avoid skincare products which contain harsh chemicals, scents, or glycolic and alpha hydroxy acids. Avoid retinol and vitamin C serums for the first 48 hours following your microneedling procedure. After the 2 days, gradually introduce your skincare regimen into your daily routine. Try to avoid strong anti-aging formulas or scrubs until the flaking has stopped and you are healed.
FAQ
How soon after microneedling can you use makeup?
You must wait at least 24 hours after your microneedling appointment to apply makeup. It is best to wait 1-3 days before returning to your usual makeup routine – especially if it involves harsh chemicals and dyes.
Why do you peel after microneedling?
Peeling after microneedling is a sign of exfoliation, meaning that cell turnover occurs and collagen production creates new skin to give you a rejuvenated, fresh appearance.
Which serums should be used after microneedling?
It is recommended to use hyaluronic acid serums after your microneedling treatment for at least 2 weeks to hydrate the skin. Skin Technique recommends the Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier. After 1-4 days, you can apply toners or moisturizers with green tea extract, linseed oil, kiwi oil, and Vitamin E. Skin Technique recommends the Resveratrol B E night face serum, rich in Vitamin E.
How soon can I shower after microneedling?
You should wait 24 hours after your microneedling treatment to shower, as the openings will have closed by then, and there is less of a chance for bacteria to get in. You can wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry with a clean towel 4 hours after your procedure.
Can microneedling cause breakouts?
If you are acne-prone, you should let the Skin Technique team know beforehand, as the microneedling procedure can cause breakouts. While microneedling can improve the look of acne scars, it is also easy to spread bacteria in the skin if there are active lesions on the surface. Your treatment and aftercare plan will be discussed in-depth to find a way for you to experience a full, successful recovery and youthful-looking skin.
What is the fastest way to recover from microneedling?
Healing from your microneedling procedure usually only takes 24 hours, but depending on the extent of the treatment, it could take up to three days. The aftercare process lasts several weeks, and it is best to go through the process as instructed – there is no way to “fast track” your healing.
Wear sunscreen, avoid direct UV exposure, stay hydrated, avoid drinking and smoking, maintain a balanced diet, and follow all aftercare instructions to enjoy fully healed and rejuvenated skin that is worth the short wait.