Microneedling creates tiny injuries in the skin to boost collagen and elastin production. This improves the skin’s texture, fades acne marks, shrinks pores, and even smooths out fine lines and wrinkles.
It sounds like the beauty treatment we all need!
But before you see those glowing results, your skin will go through a short recovery phase.
That’s why proper microneedling aftercare is crucial. You need to take extra care of your skin after a microneedling procedure to get the best results and avoid further skin irritation or prolonged redness.
If you’re wondering what to do (or, more importantly, what not to do), you’ve come to the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about post-microneedling care.
What to Expect After Microneedling
Microneedling does involve a period of downtime, though it’s typically minimal compared to more invasive cosmetic procedures.
After your treatment, your skin will start recovering from micro-injuries created by the microneedling device.
- Redness and sensitivity: For the first 24-48 hours after your microneedling session, you may notice some redness and sensitivity. It may look and feel like a mild sunburn.
- Mild swelling: You may also notice some mild swelling. Some parts of the treated area may appear puffy, but this usually subsides within 1 to 2 days.
- Mild peeling and dryness: Within 3 to 5 days after your microneedling session, your skin may start to peel slightly as it sheds dead skin cells. In addition to flaking, some parts may feel dry.
- Increased product absorption: After a microneedling treatment, your skin also becomes more receptive to products — meaning both the good (gentle hydrating products) and the bad (irritants and harsh products) can penetrate deeper.
How long does it take to recover from microneedling? Most of the visible effects subside within a few days to a week, but the exact pace varies for everyone. If your treatment is deeper, recovery may take longer.
How to Care for Your Skin After a Microneedling Treatment
Now, let’s talk about microneedling aftercare!
Taking care of your skin after microneedling isn’t complicated, but a little extra attention goes a long way. Here’s what you should do to keep your skin healthy as it heals.
- Immediate microneedling aftercare (first 24 hours)
After the treatment, your skin is more vulnerable to bacteria, so keeping it clean is a top priority. For the first 24 hours, just rinse your face with slightly cool water or a very mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
After washing your face, be gentle and just pat (don’t rub!) your skin dry with a clean, soft towel.
Keeping your skin hydrated can also soothe it and speed up healing. Use a hyaluronic acid serum or a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
And lastly, sun protection is crucial, so stay indoors if you can. If you must go outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- Days 2-7 after microneedling
On the second day after microneedling, you can start wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Mineral sunscreen, also known as physical sunscreen, is preferred for freshly treated skin — those are the ones that contain zinc oxide or titanium oxide.
However, even if you’re wearing sunscreen, try to stay out of direct sunlight as much as you can. If you must go out, wear your hat for extra protection.
Your skin may also feel tight or dry during this period, so continue cleansing and moisturizing with mild skincare products.
- Long-term microneedling aftercare
For the long haul, you’ll want to keep up with a gentle skincare routine. Opt for products made for sensitive skin and steer clear of anything harsh.
Religiously use sunscreen every single day, and reapply multiple times throughout the day as needed. Keep your skin hydrated, too. Drink plenty of water and use a lightweight moisturizer.
Don’t forget to consult your dermatologist about your skin concerns, and follow the advice they give you to keep your skin glowing after microneedling.
What to Avoid After Microneedling
After microneedling, certain habits can slow down your healing or even irritate the skin. Here’s what to avoid after your microneedling session.
#1. Sweating and intense exercise: Sweat can irritate the skin and introduce bacteria. It’s best to skip the gym for at least 48 hours. Also, avoid any strenuous activity that can make you sweat.
#2. Hot showers and saunas: Avoid hot water and steam rooms for a few days to prevent irritation and infection.
#3. Swimming: Unfortunately, you’ll need to stay away from the pool and the beach, as chlorine and saltwater can be harsh on freshly treated skin.
#4. Makeup and harsh skincare products: Don’t apply any makeup to let your skin breathe and heal. Double-check if your skincare products contain any AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids), BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids), retinoids and retinol, and strong fragrances — these can harm your skin while it’s still sensitive.
#5. Touching your face: Resist the urge to touch or pick at your skin, even if it’s flaking. This can introduce bacteria and lead to infection or scarring.
#6: Alcohol and tobacco: These can impede the healing process. Alcohol dehydrates the skin, and tobacco products can restrict blood flow.
#6: Certain medications: It’s also often recommended to avoid certain medications for some time both before and after the procedure — always consult with your dermatologist to stay safe.
While this list sounds overwhelming, don’t worry — your skin will jump back to normal once it’s fully healed. Plus, it’s a short-term commitment for long-term radiance.
Achieve that Glow with the Right Microneedling Provider
Microneedling can transform your skin, but the secret’s in the aftercare.
It’s best to keep your routine simple: clean skin, hydration, and sunscreen are key to faster healing and better results. Just avoid anything too rough or irritating, and give your skin some time to recover between sessions.
Now that you know all about microneedling aftercare, it might be time to try this treatment!
If you’re curious about what microneedling can do for you, consult with Canada MedLaser. Our experts can help you figure out the best approach for your skin, and get you on the path to your best complexion.
