What Are the Best Ways to Care for Your Skin After Microneedling?

Thinking of trying microneedling? New Jersey’s Sood Center for Aesthetic & Plastic Surgery explains that there are many factors to consider when deciding on the treatment. While preparation is always important, it’s critifal to follow aftercare guidelines if you want to maximize the results for this procedure.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mohit Sood explains, “Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, has become highly popular as a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that can treat various types of skin problems with minimal downtime. It can improve the texture, tone, and overall appearance of your skin. During a microneedling session, tiny needles create controlled punctures or micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production, which results a smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking surface. However, the success of microneedling doesn't solely depend on the procedure itself. Post-treatment care is crucial to maximize the benefits, heal well, and promote healthy skin recovery.”

Continue reading to find out about some of the best ways to care for your skin after microneedling to ensure optimal results.

·      Follow Your Dermatologist's Guidelines

Before discussing post-microneedling care, it's important to always start with an initial consultation. Your provider will evaluate your skin, determine the appropriate needle length, and discuss your goals and expectations. Following their advice is essential, as they will provide personalized guidance and detailed instructions on aftercare, taking into consideration your skin type and the specific treatment you received.

·      Gently Cleanse Your Skin

After microneedling, your skin may be sensitive, so it's important to use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser to remove impurities. Avoid harsh scrubs and exfoliants for at least a week post-treatment, as they can make irritation worse. Exfoliants and acids may dry out the skin too much. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser that won't further disrupt your skin barrier.

·      Avoid Sun Exposure

Exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays can be detrimental to healing skin and it will be more prone to sun damage than normal. Immediately after microneedling and for at least a few weeks, you should avoid direct sunlight and wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of thirty or higher daily. Even on cloudy or colder days, UV rays can penetrate your skin, potentially causing damage and pigmentation issues.

·      Hydrate

It’s normal for there to be some shedding, dryness, and flaking of the skin after microneedling because of the increased skin cell turnover. Proper hydration is key to maintaining skin health, and it’s safe to apply your regular moisturizer—although you may want to switch to a better one. After microneedling, your skin may become drier than usual, so it's essential to use a hydrating moisturizer. Look for a product that contains gentle, nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin. Apply your moisturizer liberally to maintain skin moisture and prevent dryness or flakiness.

·      Use Topical Treatments as Advised

You may be prescribed or advised to use specific topical treatments after microneedling. These could include growth factors, peptides, or vitamin-rich serums to enhance the healing process and improve results. Always follow your practitioner's instructions regarding the application of these products. You will also need to avoid certain skincare products and ingredients—such as makeup and sunscreen—for the first 12 hours. It’s important to avoid products that could disrupt the natural healing process of the skin or lead to infection.

·      Take Steps to Avoid Infection

You may need to use a prescribed antibiotic cream to avoid infection after microneedling, in addition to washing your hands prior to touching your face. Also, avoid putting on makeup within the first 24 hours—especially with brushes that have been used before. You will need to take further steps to protect your skin, such as avoiding swimming pools, saunas, and situations that may cause you to heavily sweat, such as intense gym workouts. Intense physical activity, especially sports or exercises that induce heavy sweating, should be avoided for a few days after microneedling. Sweating can introduce bacteria into your skin, leading to infection or irritation.

Interested in knowing more about microneedling aftercare? Contact New Jersey’s Sood Center for Aesthetic & Plastic Surgery. Call (609) 904-5390 (Linwood) or (856) 403-9686 (Haddonfield) or submit a contact form to request a consultation.