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Planning a microneedling session but don't know what to expect for the microneedling aftercare? This day-by-day guide and these microneedling care instructions will break down everything you need to know to get the best possible results from your treatment. 

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin care treatment that uses tiny needles to cause micro-injuries in the skin, activating your body's natural healing process. This increases collagen and elastin synthesis, which helps to revitalize your skin from the inside out. 

Skin Pen microneedling is a popular treatment for long-term skin rejuvenation. It offers various benefits such as reduced fine lines and wrinkles, minimizing the look of acne scarring and stretch marks, and having multiple anti-aging benefits as well. 

What to Expect

Following microneedling, your skin may feel tight, warmed up, or slightly red, similar to a moderate sunburn. If you're wondering, "Why does my face feel tight after skincare?" or "Why does my face feel hot after skincare?" these are common post-treatment symptoms. 

You may also have slight swelling, irritation, or flaking as your skin heals. This is an essential aspect of the healing process and a sign that collagen synthesis has begun. Following the microneedling proper care instructions during this phase can speed up your skin's recovery and provide smoother, firmer, and more radiant results.

Recovery Time

Microneedling recovery can vary by skin type, treatment depth, and individual sensitivity. Here's a general skin pen microneedling aftercare day-by-day timeline:

  • 60 Minutes Post-Treatment: Your skin may appear flushed and feel warm or sensitive. Try to avoid touching your face and allow it to settle naturally.
  • Up to 24 Hours: Redness and a tight sensation are common at this point. Make sure to keep your skin clean and apply only a gentle, hydrating serum like hyaluronic acid.
  • 1 to 2 Days: Your skin may still be slightly red, and you might notice slight dryness or flaking. Continue to avoid makeup and sun exposure.
  • 2 to 3 Days: Sensitivity usually begins to decrease at this point. The skin may feel a bit rough or textured. Stick to calming products only.
  • 3 to 4 Days: Skin typically begins to feel smoother. You can slowly resume your regular skincare routine but avoid activities for a few more days.
  • 4 to 5 Days: The redness should have entirely faded, and the skin will continue to be repaired below the surface.
  • 3 Weeks: Collagen production is still ongoing at the 3-week mark. The results should now become more visible, and the skin should appear firmer and more radiant.
  • 4 to 6 Weeks: Full skin rejuvenation is seen at this point. This is when microneedling before and after care consistency indeed shows its impact.

Now that you have a broken recovery timeline let's quickly go over how to care for your skin after microneedling.

Microneedling Aftercare Tips

Microneedling before and after care tips differ from one another. Proper microneedling post-care guidelines preserve your skin while improving your outcomes. Here are essential tips to follow:

#1. Avoid the Sun After Microneedling

After treatment, your skin is more vulnerable, so restrict your sun exposure. Wear a broad-spectrum SPF even indoors. UV rays can aggravate healing skin, resulting in hyperpigmentation.

#2. Avoid Active Topical Skin Care Products After Microneedling

Avoid retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and Vitamin C for at least 3 to 5 days. These active ingredients might irritate newly treated skin and slow healing.

#3. Do Not Use Makeup After Microneedling

For at least 24 to 48 hours, do not use foundation or other cosmetics. Applying makeup too quickly can block pores, causing discomfort and infection.

#4. Applying Face Masks After Microneedling

Avoid clay and exfoliating masks. If you use masks, pick mild, moisturizing sheet masks that are free of fragrances and harsh chemicals.

#5. Avoid Intensive Exercise That Will Make You Sweat

Sweating can irritate your skin and introduce bacteria into microchannels. Hold off on intense workouts for 1 to 2 days post-treatment.

#6. Avoid Long Hot Baths and Showers After Microneedling

Heat may worsen redness and swelling. Stick to lukewarm water and avoid steam rooms and saunas.

#7. Do Not Swim After Microneedling

Chlorinated water can sting and irritate freshly treated skin. Wait at least 72 hours before swimming.

#8. Avoid Tattooing After Microneedling

Don't undergo any tattooing or brow treatments immediately after microneedling. Your skin needs time to heal first.

#9. Avoid Further Clinical Treatments After Microneedling

Chemical peels, laser treatments, and facials should be avoided until your skin fully recovers, typically 1 to 2 weeks after microneedling.

#10. Avoid Spray Tan (Or Self-Tanning) After Microneedling

These tanning products contain harsh chemicals that might irritate and discolor the healing skin. Wait until your skin has completely healed before using them.

Microneedling Homecare Advice 

After your treatment, stick to a simple skincare routine focusing on hydration and healing. Here's some advice to follow that can be quickly done at home:

  • Cleanse Gently: Use a non-stripping, fragrance-free cleanser to keep your skin clean without irritating it.
  • Hydrate Deeply: Apply a hyaluronic acid serum or collagen-boosting serum to soothe and replenish moisture. 
  • Avoid Exfoliating: Give your skin time to shed any dry or flaky patches naturally. Do not use scrubs or exfoliants for at least 5 to 7 days.
  • Sleep on a Clean Pillowcase: This prevents bacteria transfer and supports a cleaner healing environment for your freshly treated skin.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support healing from the inside out.
  • Let Your Skin Breathe: Don't overload your skin with too many products.

With the proper microneedling homecare guidance, you can enhance your outcomes, reduce discomfort, and successfully help the natural healing process for your skin.

Microneedling Aftercare Starts with Self-Care

Excellent microneedling aftercare is more than just the products used; it's also about how you treat your body as it heals. Getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and eating a balanced, nutrient-dense diet help speed up healing and improve skin outcomes. 

Remember, microneedling works from the inside out. Make sure your overall wellness supports your skincare goals. Self-care truly is skin care. When you combine microneedling care instructions with healthy living practices, your skin is equipped to glow, recover, and thrive after your treatment.

Perfect Your Microneedling Aftercare with Dr. Pen's Guidance

Following a microneedling treatment, proper aftercare is crucial to achieving your desired glowing results. By following these simple microneedling aftercare day-by-day tips and suggestions, you're well on your way to getting the best results possible. Need more guidance? Reach out to our experts through our contact form!

FAQ

How long does shipping take?

We offer guaranteed 2-day UPS air delivery.

If you place your order before 11AM (Monday-Friday), your order will ship the same day from our Indianapolis, IN warehouse and arrive within 2 business days.

Orders placed after 11AM on Friday, or on weekends (Saturday/Sunday), will ship the following Monday and arrive within 2 business days from that shipment date. Free shipping is available on orders over $49.

When to wash face after microneedling?

You can gently wash your face 6 to 8 hours after microneedling. Make sure to use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser with cool water. Avoid using hot water, scrubbers, or harsh cleansing agents. Pat the skin dry gently, then add a soothing moisturizing serum or moisturizer to promote healing and prevent post-treatment irritation.

What to expect after microneedling?

Microneedling may leave the skin slightly red, a bit puffy, and feeling similar to a mild sunburn. Some dryness or flaking can appear as the skin heals. Improvements in texture and tone usually develop over the following weeks. Staying hydrated and protecting your skin from the sun are key to smooth recovery and lasting results.

How long does it take to heal from microneedling?

Healing varies but often takes 3 to 7 days. Redness fades in 48 hours, versus the mild dryness, or sloughing, which can last days. Deeper treatments will take longer. Keeping the skin hydrated, wearing SPF, and avoiding harsh products helps the skin to heal more quickly and get the most from a microneedling experience.

How often do I apply hyaluronic acid after microneedling?

Hyaluronic acid can be applied right after microneedling and used twice daily to aid recovery. Its hydrating properties calm the skin, ease tightness, and speed healing. For best comfort and moisture retention, choose a sterile, fragrance-free formula designed specifically for post-treatment care.

How long after microneedling can I exfoliate?

You should refrain from exfoliating for the first 5-7 days after microneedling. While healing, the skin barrier becomes weak. You should allow it time to heal. If you use scrubs, acids or peels too fast, you may irritate the skin. It's important to wait until your skin has finished with any flaking and feels completely calm before starting any gentle exfoliation again.

How long after microneedling can I go in the sun?

Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 3-5 days after microneedling. If you’re going outdoors, always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen starting day two. The skin is highly photosensitive post-treatment, and sun exposure without protection can cause pigmentation, irritation, or slow down recovery.

What to do after microneedling at home?

After microneedling at home, keep your skin clean, nourished, and protected. Use hyaluronic acid and a mild moisturizer. For a few days, avoid using cosmetics, retinoids, or exfoliators. Apply mineral SPF every day. Do not touch or pick at the skin. To promote healing and improve outcomes, prioritize calming, nurturing treatment.

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