4 Things to Know About Microneedling Aftercare

There are many benefits associated with microneedling. Bryn Mawr’s Cirillo Cosmetic Dermatology Spa team explains that the treatment makes your skin look smoother and more radiant. Patients who are having this skin rejuvenation procedure, also known as collagen induction therapy, are typically excited to see the rapid improvements to their complexion.

However, while most of the “work” is done during the treatment, what they do at home afterward helps them get the most out of this procedure.

Although its main benefit is improving the texture of the skin, microneedling can also address blemishes and other imperfections such as hyperpigmentation, dilated pores, reduced skin elasticity, scars, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Microneedling has a few potential side effects, including mild discomfort, redness, bruising, and dryness for the first few days after treatment. Recently treated skin will look as if it has a mild to moderate sunburn, which is normal. There isn’t much that can be done to prevent this redness that develops immediately after microneedling, but there are some strategies that can be employed to reduce the other side effects you may experience.

Instructions for how to care for your skin after microneedling—with specifics based on your skin type, medical history, and age—will be provided. Continue reading for recommended tips to optimize the results from a microneedling treatment.

1. Protect Your Skin from Sun Exposure

It is important to apply a mineral sunscreen all year round to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer and premature aging. After microneedling, it is essential to carefully and consistently apply sunscreen for the first two weeks, as healing skin is more vulnerable to sun damage. Limit your exposure to sunlight during this time, and never go into a tanning bed or use other artificial sources of UV radiation. Cover up when you go outdoors—even if it is cloudy—and remember the six “Ss”: Slip on protective clothing. Slop on sunscreen. Slap on a hat. Seek shade. Slide on sunglasses. Swallow Heliocare Ultra!

2. Don’t Use Active Topical Skin Care Products

Avoid using “medically” active products including retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic and lactic acids), beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid), vitamin C, and exfoliants for seven days after microneedling. All of these products have the potential to irritate treated skin. Scented products and chemical-based sunscreens should also be avoided, as they too can cause irritation. Only use the skin care products that your provider recommends.

3. Avoid Heavy Exercise

Microneedling creates tiny holes in the surface of the skin, each of which prompts a healing response—but can potentially allow bacteria to enter. The risk of infection is low, but it is better to avoid working out at the gym while you are healing. Any exercise that makes you sweat results in your pores opening, adding to the risk of bacterial entry into the skin. To further lower the risk of infection, you should only swim in clean water as your skin recovers. Avoid lakes, the ocean, and rivers, as well as public pools and spas.

4. Keep Your Skin Clean

Follow all post-care instructions from your provider for keeping your skin clean. During the first 72 hours, it is best to use a gentle cleanser and tepid water on your face. Also ensure that your hands are clean when touching the treatment area. Discuss your complete skin care regimen with your provider to obtain the best results after microneedling. Be sure to talk to your provider about any cleansers or other products you plan to use after microneedling to ensure you get the best results possible from both your products and your collagen-induction treatment.

For more details about how to care for your skin after microneedling, contact the Cirillo Cosmetic Dermatology Spa to get answers, advice, and other information. Call 610.525.5029 or fill out a contact form to schedule a consultation and discuss minimally invasive skin revitalization treatments with their team.