Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that’s used to treat skin concerns via collagen production. Also known as collagen induction therapy, this treatment may help those looking to reduce the appearance of acne scars and stretch marks.
After you have a microneedling procedure, some side effects are to be expected. When you leave your appointment, your skin may be flushed or bright red, as if you have spent the entire day out in the sun and have a mild to moderate sunburn.
The redness and swelling will most likely persist for 24 hours or slightly longer. Even with careful aftercare, there isn’t much you can do to get rid of the redness immediately after microneedling.
Covering up the redness with makeup is one of the worst things you can do, as the makeup will block the pores on your newly exposed skin and might even cause breakouts. You’ll need to have some patience as the redness subsides, but in the meantime, you can apply gentle, unscented products with natural ingredients to get some relief.
Swelling and some skin peeling are all considered to be within the realm of normal up to 48 hours after the procedure. Other side effects, like bumps, breakouts, and dry skin, are also within the scope of what you may experience after microneedling, but not everyone will experience them.
Taking care of your skin with moisturizer and gentle cleansers can make your side effects as minimal as possible.
Aftercare tips
Your doctor should provide detailed instructions on what to do after microneedling. The instructions may be based specifically on your medical history or skin type, so make sure to follow them carefully.
As a general rule, you should reach for sunscreen constantly for the first 2 weeks after microneedling. Make sure to apply sunscreen anytime you go outside in the days following your treatment.
Don’t spend prolonged time out in the sun for the first week after your microneedling procedure, as you’ll be more prone to sun damage than usual.
Use any topical antibiotic cream that your doctor prescribes to avoid infection.
Wash your hands before you touch your face.
Don’t put on makeup, especially with a makeup brush that has been used before, in the 24 hours following microneedling.
You’ll also need to avoid swimming pools, saunas, and situations where you might sweat heavily, including intense workouts at the gym, to protect your newly treated skin. After 72 hours have passed, you may be able to resume these activities.
Recovery
The redness that you experience from microneedling will mostly fade within 48 hours. Other symptoms, such as peeling and breakouts, might take slightly longer to resolve. Most of the visible recovery from microneedling happens in the first day or two after treatment, but healing will still be happening under the surface of your skin for up to 2 months afterward.
