Wondering what to use after microneedling? Proper aftercare is essential to support healing and achieve the best results. In this article, you’ll find recommended products like gentle cleansers, hyaluronic acid serums, and sunscreens, along with tips on what to avoid to keep your skin healthy.
Key Takeaways
- After microneedling, keep the skin clean and avoid touching it to prevent infection.
- Hydrate your skin with gentle products, like hyaluronic acid and lightweight moisturisers, to enhance healing.
- Protect your skin from sun exposure with sunscreen and avoid harsh products for optimal recovery.
Immediate Aftercare Post-Microneedling
The microneedling procedure leaves your skin more sensitive due to the tiny punctures created during the treatment. The initial healing phase typically lasts between 2 to 7 days, marked by redness and heightened sensitivity. Proper microneedling aftercare during this period supports the skin’s natural healing process and helps prevent complications.
Here are some key aftercare tips to follow immediately post-treatment.
Avoid Touching and Scratching
It’s tempting, but avoid touching or scratching the treated area. Your skin needs time to heal, and introducing bacteria by touching it can lead to infections and delay recovery. Let your body’s natural healing response take its course for the best results.
Keep the Skin Clean
Keeping your skin clean is key to preventing infections and speeding up healing. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that won’t irritate your skin.
Avoid washing the treated area for at least 12 hours, and make sure to stay away from products that clog pores. Focus on keeping your skin clean and hydrated.
Skip Makeup and Harsh Products
Avoid makeup to let your skin breathe and heal properly. Do not wear makeup for at least 24 hours following microneedling.
Additionally, steer clear of harsh chemicals found in skincare or makeup products that could further irritate your sensitive skin.
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Our team of experienced practitioners in Manchester is dedicated to providing professional and reliable care, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident throughout your treatment journey. With our personalised approach, we assess your unique skin concerns and create a customised plan to deliver optimal results, making a noticeable difference in your skin’s texture and tone after just one session.
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Hydration and Moisturisation
Post-treatment hydration aids in skin recovery and minimises side effects. Hydrated skin supports the healing process and helps maintain the treatment’s benefits.
Consider these methods to keep your skin moisturised and healthy.
Use Hyaluronic Acid Serums
Hyaluronic acid serums are a post-microneedling must-have. They help replenish moisture, soothe redness, and plump the skin. Since your skin is more absorbent after microneedling, it can better retain moisture from hyaluronic acid, ensuring it stays hydrated and healthy.
Apply a Gentle Moisturizer
Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser after microneedling. A well-formulated moisturiser restores moisture, soothes the skin, and provides a protective barrier during the healing process.
This maintains the skin’s moisture balance and accelerates healing.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel is known for its natural soothing properties, making it an excellent addition to your post-microneedling routine. It relieves irritation and redness, promoting faster healing by providing essential hydration.
Tips to Protect the Skin
After microneedling, your skin is particularly delicate and needs extra protection to heal properly. Guarding it from external damage is essential to ensuring a smooth recovery and preventing complications.
Importance of Sunscreen
One of the most crucial steps is using sunscreen. Opt for a high-SPF chemical sunscreen—SPF 30 or higher is recommended. Daily application during the first two weeks will shield your healing skin from harmful UV rays and help prevent irritation.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Because your skin is more sensitive after microneedling, even minimal sun exposure can lead to burning and damage. Avoid direct sunlight as much as possible, and always apply sunscreen if you’re heading outdoors.
Wear Protective Clothing
Wearing hats and long sleeves adds an extra layer of protection for your sensitive skin. This simple precaution helps minimise UV exposure and supports the skin’s healing process, keeping you safe from unnecessary damage.
Enhance Results with Additional Products
To maximise the benefits of microneedling, incorporating specific products into your aftercare routine can enhance your skin’s recovery and improve your overall results.
Antioxidant Serums
Using antioxidant serums after microneedling is an excellent way to support healing. These serums protect your skin from environmental damage while promoting collagen production, which is essential for improving texture and firmness. Antioxidants help boost recovery, leaving your skin looking refreshed and revitalised.
Collagen-Stimulating Peptides
Collagen-stimulating peptides are another key ingredient to include in your post-care routine. These peptides enhance the skin’s natural healing process by encouraging collagen production, which is vital for maintaining skin structure and elasticity. Adding peptide-rich products can lead to smoother, firmer skin over time.
Oral Supplements
Consider incorporating oral supplements into your aftercare regimen. These supplements support skin health from within, complementing the microneedling process and enhancing long-term results. Adding them to your routine may further boost your skin’s appearance and resilience.
What to Avoid Post-Microneedling
To ensure your skin heals properly and to maximise the benefits of microneedling, it’s crucial to avoid certain products and activities in the days following your treatment.
Avoid Acid Exfoliators & Retinoids
Acid exfoliators and retinoids can be too harsh on your sensitive skin post-microneedling. They tend to dry out and irritate the skin, which can interfere with the healing process. Stay away from these products for at least 7 days.
Skip Intense Exercise
After microneedling, it’s best to hold off on intense workouts. Excessive sweating can irritate the skin and slow down the healing process. To avoid unnecessary irritation, skip heavy exercise for at least 24 hours post-treatment.
Steer Clear of Chemical Peels
Chemical peels and other exfoliating treatments can be too aggressive on healing skin. Using them too soon after microneedling can lead to over-exfoliation and prolonged sensitivity. Give your skin at least two weeks to recover before considering chemical peels or any products containing AHA or BHA.
Signs of Normal Healing
Understanding the healing process after microneedling can help you feel more at ease. Here’s what you can expect as your skin recovers.
Expected Skin Reactions
After your microneedling session, it’s normal for your skin to appear slightly red and feel sensitive, similar to a mild sunburn. You might notice some mild redness, a bit of swelling, and a flushed appearance—these are all typical reactions.
By the third day, you may experience some dryness and roughness as your skin begins to shed its outer layer. Peeling is also a normal part of the healing process as your skin generates new collagen and goes through cell turnover.
Most of these initial reactions will start to fade within four to five days, although your skin will continue to heal and improve for up to two months. You might also notice some mild breakouts during this time, which is completely normal.
To support your skin’s recovery, continue with your usual gentle skincare routine. This will help keep your skin comfortable and promote healing, ensuring you enjoy the best results from your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my usual skincare routine products after microneedling?
It’s best to avoid harsh chemicals and alcohol-based products right after microneedling. Stick to gentle, non-comedogenic skincare to aid in your healing process.
Is it normal for my skin to peel after microneedling?
Peeling skin is a normal part of microneedling wound healing response after microneedling, as it signals collagen production and cell turnover. Just give it some time, and your skin will start looking vibrant!
How should I cleanse my skin after microneedling?
It’s essential to use a gentle cleanser after microneedling to avoid further irritation. This will help remove any flaky dead skin without disrupting the healing process.
Can I use vitamin C or collagen-stimulating peptides after my treatment?
Yes, incorporating vitamin C and collagen-stimulating peptides can assist in your skin’s healing and rejuvenation. However, it’s best to consult with your practitioner about using these products before further clinical treatments to ensure optimal results for issues like acne scars.
Conclusion
Proper aftercare is essential to maximise the benefits of your microneedling treatment. By following these aftercare tips—keeping your skin clean, hydrated, and protected—you support your skin’s natural healing process and ensure optimal results. Remember, the journey to beautiful skin doesn’t end with the procedure; it’s just the beginning. Embrace these guidelines, and you’ll be well on your way to glowing, healthy skin.
At Skiin, we are committed to helping you achieve your skincare goals. Our expert microneedling treatments are designed to rejuvenate and revitalise your skin, providing personalised care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with fine lines, uneven texture, or other skin concerns, our experienced practitioners in Manchester are here to guide you every step of the way. Book your appointment today.