DermNurse Medical Aesthetics

Pre-Care and Aftercare for Microneedling

Microneedling: Revitalize Your Skin

How Does It Work?

Microneedling uses a device with tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating the body’s natural healing process. This leads to the production of new, healthy skin and offers numerous benefits:

  • Improves Skin Texture & Tone: Smooths and evens out the skin.
  • Reduces Scars & Wrinkles: Minimizes the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles.
  • Enhances Skin Elasticity: Boosts firmness and elasticity.
  • Addresses Hyperpigmentation: Helps with discoloration for a more even complexion.
  • Stimulates Collagen & Elastin Production: Encourages the growth of smoother, healthier skin.

Pre-Care Instructions

Prepare your skin for microneedling by following these guidelines:

  1. Avoid Sun Exposure: Stay out of direct sunlight and avoid tanning (including self-tanners) for 1-2 weeks.
  2. Discontinue Active Skincare Products: Stop using retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and exfoliating agents 3-5 days before treatment.
  3. Avoid Blood Thinners: Refrain from taking aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, or gingko biloba 3-5 days prior (consult your doctor if prescribed).
  4. No Hair Removal: Avoid waxing, threading, or depilatory creams in the treatment area for 1 week.
  5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.
  6. Arrive Makeup-Free: Come with clean, bare skin on the day of your appointment.
  7. Medical History: Inform your provider about any medical conditions, medications, or recent procedures.

Post-Care Instructions

To ensure optimal healing and results, follow these steps after your microneedling session:

  1. Protect Your Skin: Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily and avoid direct sunlight for 1-2 weeks.
  2. No Makeup: Refrain from wearing makeup for 24-48 hours post-treatment.
  3. Skip Active Skincare: Avoid retinoids, acids, and exfoliants for at least 5 days.
  4. Hydrate & Soothe: Use a gentle hydrating serum and soothing moisturizer as recommended.
  5. Avoid Heat & Sweating: Skip saunas, hot baths, and strenuous exercise for 48 hours.
  6. No Alcohol or Smoking: Avoid these for at least 48 hours to support healing.
  7. No Swimming: Stay out of pools, hot tubs, and oceans for 5-7 days.
  8. Hands Off: Avoid touching or picking at the treated area.
  9. Expect Redness & Swelling: Mild redness, tightness, and peeling may occur for 1-3 days.
  10. Follow-Up Care: Adhere to personalized aftercare instructions provided by your provider.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Change your pillowcase on the day of treatment to prevent infection.
  • Follow all aftercare instructions closely to ensure proper healing.
  • Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results, depending on your skin concerns.
  • Be patient—full results can take 4-6 weeks as the skin regenerates.

What to Expect

  1. Immediate Effects:
    • Redness & Warmth: Skin may appear flushed or sunburned for 24-48 hours.
    • Sensitivity: Skin may feel tight, dry, or slightly tender.
  2. Next Few Days:
    • Mild Swelling: Puffiness, especially around the eyes, may occur.
    • Peeling or Flaking: Light exfoliation or dryness as the skin heals.
    • Pinpoint Scabs: Tiny dots at treatment sites may form and heal within a few days.
  3. One Week Later:
    • Improved Texture: Skin feels smoother as collagen production begins.
    • Mild Residual Redness: Lingering pinkness may last up to a week.

Signs of Infection

Contact your provider immediately if you experience:

  • Persistent redness or swelling beyond 72 hours.
  • Pus, yellow/green discharge, or unusual oozing.
  • Increased pain, warmth, or tenderness in the treated area.
  • Fever, chills, or feeling unwell.
  • Red streaks extending from the treatment site.

Microneedling is a powerful treatment to rejuvenate your skin. Book your session today to reveal a smoother, healthier complexion!