Microneedling Aftercare Tips To Maximize Your Results

Microneedling is a fantastic way to rejuvenate your skin and minimize the signs of aging that may appear on your face. But if you want to make the most of your session, it’s essential to follow all microneedling aftercare tips and instructions your treatment specialist recommends.

And, before scheduling an appointment, you’ll want to know what to expect. Today, we’re discussing common reactions to microneedling and how best to care for your skin following your treatment. 

What to expect after microneedling

In the days after your microneedle session, you might experience redness, peeling, and minor irritation. While everyone’s skin is different, there’s a general timeline we see as healing progresses. Here’s what to expect: 

Days 1 to 3

Your skin may be particularly sensitive in the first few days after your microneedling treatment. In fact, many compare it to a mild sunburn. Others feel a tightness. Redness, swelling, and visible puncture marks may be present. As your skin begins to recover, you treat it with some extra TLC.

Days 3 to 5

Between days three and five, most people see a drastic improvement in redness, swelling, and inflammation. However, this is when your skin may begin to flake or feel slightly rough to the touch. Many experience dry, itchy skin or notice small bumps around the treatment area.  

Days 5 to 7

Once you hit the five- to seven-day mark, most of the micro-channels have healed, and you should see a major improvement in side effects. At this point, many even begin to notice the early results of their microneedling treatment. 

Skincare tips for microneedling aftercare

Proper aftercare is paramount for a successful microneedling session. Here are our top microneedling aftercare tips to help you care for your skin during recovery: 

Stay hydrated

Well-hydrated skin starts from the inside out. If you’re not drinking enough water, you may see more dry, flaky skin and experience itchiness and irritation. Try to gulp down eight to ten glasses each day. 

Moisturize your skin

Of course, you’ll also need to apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer throughout the day to keep your skin thoroughly hydrated. While peeling is part of the process, you should resist the urge to scratch your face or pick at dead skin. Instead, reapply your moisturizer when the urge to scratch rears its ugly head. 

Limit sun exposure

Microneedling temporarily reduces your skin’s ability to protect you from harmful UV rays, so a broad-spectrum sunscreen will be your best friend after treatment.

Avoid direct sun exposure at all costs, and be sure to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours — even if you’re wearing a big, floppy hat. Remember, even ambient light can be too intense for post-treatment skin! So, don’t skip the sun protection just because you’re inside. 

Avoid harsh products

Many folks enjoy microneedling as part of a holistic skincare routine, but you’ll need to put away any products with harsh active ingredients until your skin is completely healed. Retinols, chemical exfoliants, and other topical products can cause major irritation as you heal from microneedling, so stick with the essentials for a week or two.

Protect skin from infection 

Since microneedling creates countless microscopic channels in the skin, you’ll be more susceptible to infection in the days following your treatment. Do your best to avoid touching your face or allowing contact with unsanitary objects like dirty towels, pillowcases, and makeup brushes. You will also want to avoid any additional treatments like dermaplaning until your skin has fully healed. 

Wait on the makeup 

Makeup is a leading culprit when it comes to facial infections after microneedling. In fact, even brand-new products applied with clean tools can inhibit the positive effects of microneedling.

Additionally, your makeup will most likely accentuate flaking skin and other expected side effects of the treatment. For the best results, hold off until your skin is completely healed. 

Avoid strenuous exercise and excessive sweating 

Sweat can easily clog pores and lead to uncomfortable complications after microneedling. It can also introduce harmful bacteria to the skin. Whether you prefer to hit the gym, the sauna, or swim laps in the pool, you’ll need to give your skin adequate time to heal before pushing your body too hard. 

Follow your esthetician’s instructions 

Your treatment specialist should have plenty of experience with microneedling and proper aftercare to give you the guidance you need to handle your tender skin. Be sure to follow their instructions closely, and feel free to reach out with any questions! 

How do you speed up healing after microneedling? 

Want to get rapid results from microneedling? We totally understand! Here are a few pointers to turbocharge the recovery process:

Don’t pick or peel skin

Dead skin is a rite of passage for microneedling clients, but it’s imperative that you keep your hands off. Picking or peeling dead flakes can open up new wounds and extend your overall healing time. After a week or so, you can gently exfoliate to shed any dead skin cells. 

Use the right products

Sticking with gentle, fragrance-free products is crucial as you recover from microneedling. If you’re unsure which ones to use, your treatment specialist will be able to recommend the ideal topicals for your unique skin. Be sure to ask about a nourishing hyaluronic acid serum to facilitate optimal recovery. Additionally, taking glutathione internally will help heal the skin with a better result! 

Avoid hot water

We all love a nice, hot shower after a long day, but this is another luxury reserved for fully healed skin. After microneedling, you’ll need to opt for cooler water. Wash with tepid or lukewarm H2O to reduce irritation, minimize dehydration, and keep your skin from becoming too itchy.

Schedule your next microneedling treatment at Three Little Birds Aesthetics!

Whether you’re navigating the stages of microneedling aftercare or curious about achieving the best skin of your life, Three Little Birds Aesthetics is here to help! Contact us today or book an appointment to get started!