Skip to content Skip to footer

What to do after a micro-needling treatment

Micro-needling is a cosmetic procedure that helps to improve blood circulation and collagen production. The process involves using a small needle to prick the skin in order to stimulate the release of growth factors. 

This leads to an increase in collagen production, which in turn results in improved skin texture and tone.

Micro-needling can be used to treat a variety of skin concerns, including wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, and stretch marks. The procedure is relatively safe and has few side effects. However, it is important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon prior to undergoing treatment.

In this article, we’ll cover some of the best practices to care for your skin after a microneedling treatment.

How long does micro-needling last 

You will see improvements in the tone and texture of your skin within a few days of your micro-needling treatment. This can last from a few weeks to several months depending on the procedure.

  • The degree of pigmentation or scarring
  • How long new collagen lasts on your skin
  • How well you care for your skin after the treatment. 

Although you’ll see some results after each treatment,  patients require multiple sessions 1-2 weeks apart to see the long-term benefits. Afterward, clients can book maintenance sessions, usually around six to twelve months after the last session. 

If you have scarring or pigmentation, you’ll need to build plenty of collagen and will require more treatments to see longer-lasting results. 

What should I put on my face after micro-needling?

There are a lot of healthy substances that your skin can benefit from after micro-needling. However, finding the right skincare product depends on your skin.

Aftercare for Wrinkled Skin

For wrinkled skin, there are products that will smooth and plump your skin. Look for topical applications that will help you stimulate collagen and elastin production. This includes peptides, growth factors, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid. 

You can also apply retinoids and vitamin C to help your skin stimulate more elastin and collagen production.

Aftercare for Acne Scars

If your skin concern is indented or has atrophic acne scars, you will need products that stimulate collagen production. This will help fill the scars and plump your skin. 

Products containing hyaluronic acid, peptides, growth factors, and antioxidants will serve you well as your best friend during this period. After five to seven days, you can also get Vitamin C and retinoids. They will help your skin stimulate the production of more collagen. 

Aftercare for Acne

We don’t advise microneedling over active acne. However, if you’re prone to acne, we highly recommend applying basic skincare treatments after micro-needling to avoid any case of skin breakout. Pure hyaluronic acid serum, moisturizer, and a gentle cleanser will go a long way for you.

Whatever your skin concerns, avoid using Retinol and vitamin C serum for the first 48 hours after micro-needling. After two days, you can gradually incorporate products into your routine, especially if you have products that have strong anti-aging properties. 

How long after micro-needling can I wear makeup?

To apply makeup after a micro-needling session, you must wait for forty-eight to seventy-two hours. This enables your skin to recover from the micro-injuries caused by the treatment. 

This also applies to your tinted moisturizer and sunscreen. Your skin will usually be hydrated after a micro-needling treatment. However, makeup needs to be avoided because it is made up of pigmented minerals that can irritate your skin if applied after micro-needling.

Makeup is less ideal for micro-needling because it is made from minerals or oil bases that block pores, interfering with natural skin shedding. This will make it difficult for your skin to recover healthily after a micro-needling treatment.

After a day, your skin will handle chemicals used in tinted products. After two to three days, your skin will be healed enough and be in a better place to handle regular makeup products that will not hinder recovery. 

How to treat breakouts after micro needling

It is normal that you will face some side effects after a micro-needling procedure. Some of these side effects include your skin becoming flushed or bright red, like you have a mild or moderate sunburn. This usually disappears from your face forty-eight hours after your micro-needling session. 

Other indications of your skin healing itself after microneedling include peeling, breakouts, bumps, dry skin, swelling, peeling, and flaking. It used highly recommended that you take care of your skin with moisturizer and gentle cleansers, as this will help minimize irritation. 

Face washing after micro needling

Face washing after micro needling is essential, but it must be done correctly. Wash your face with lukewarm water for the first two days after your micro-needling treatment. After forty-eight hours, you can cleanse your face with a gentle and non-exfoliating face wash. 

Adopting a gentle cleanser post-procedure eight hours after a micro-needling session isn’t a bad option either. Thus will hastily help you in removing traces of dried blood. Products and serums containing growth factors and peptides are highly recommended as well. 

Final Thoughts

Applying healthy skincare routines after micro-needling will allow you to maximize the benefits of each treatment.  It will help your skin breathe healthily and protect it from damage as the healing process occurs. 

Get Expert Skincare Advice

Have specific questions about microneedling? Speak with a Dermatouch esthetician to understand if microneedling is right for you. 

Leave a comment