Do you know what microneedling is and why microneedling aftercare is crucial? Microneedling is a skin treatment that helps reduce fine lines and acne scars. It involves creating tiny punctures in your skin using sharp needles, which triggers your body’s natural healing response. People with damaged skin cells often undergo the treatment to achieve smoother, clearer skin.
However, during a microneedling session, you may experience minor skin injuries due to the punctures. That’s why proper microneedling aftercare is essential to protect your skin and support healing. Read on to learn the most important things to avoid after your session—and explore the best skincare tips and products to use post-treatment.
What is microneedling?
Microneedling is a skin treatment that involves puncturing the skin with fine needles at various points. This process helps increase the production of elastin and collagen, both of which are crucial for skin rejuvenation. It promotes a smooth, glowing complexion by activating the skin’s natural repair mechanisms.
However, these tiny punctures can leave behind micro-wounds, leading to temporary irritation, redness, or increased sensitivity. The first 24 hours after treatment are especially crucial. Proper aftercare during this time can significantly speed up recovery and improve results. In some cases, full recovery may take several days or even weeks, depending on skin type.
7 Things You Must Avoid After Microneedling for Fast Healing
After microneedling, many people unknowingly follow their regular skincare routine—which can be harmful. Avoiding these common mistakes will help your skin heal faster and prevent complications.
1. Avoid Wearing Makeup
Microneedling makes your skin extremely sensitive. The fine punctures open up your pores, leaving your skin vulnerable. Applying makeup immediately after treatment can lead to irritation, clogged pores, and even breakouts.
Your skin needs time to breathe and begin the healing process. Avoid makeup for at least 24 to 48 hours after your session. Let your skin recover naturally during this period.
2. Don’t Use Harsh Skincare Products
Using products with strong chemicals or active ingredients—like retinol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or fragrances—can irritate your skin post-treatment. After microneedling, your skin is in a vulnerable state and requires gentle care.
Avoid these ingredients and opt for soothing, hydrating products instead. A serum with hyaluronic acid, known for its deep hydration properties, can be especially beneficial (learn why).
3. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure
Your skin becomes more sensitive to UV rays after microneedling. Unprotected sun exposure can cause hyperpigmentation, sunburn, or even scarring.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+, and reapply it every 2 hours if you’re outdoors. It’s best to avoid prolonged sun exposure entirely for at least 7 days after your treatment.
Sun exposure becomes even riskier with age or after treatments like microneedling. Learn what ingredients and habits to avoid.
4. Don’t Use Dirty Tools or Touch Your Face with Unwashed Hands
Microneedling creates open micro-channels in your skin. This means even minimal exposure to bacteria can lead to infection.
Avoid touching your face with unclean hands. Change your pillowcases frequently, and make sure your makeup brushes, towels, and skincare tools are clean and sanitized. Maintaining good hygiene is a critical part of microneedling aftercare.
5. Avoid Sweating and Intense Workouts
Heavy workouts, steam rooms, or hot baths should be avoided after microneedling. Sweating can clog open pores and increase the risk of inflammation or infection.
Excessive heat and moisture can delay your skin’s healing process. Skip intense physical activities for a few days and give your skin the calm environment it needs to recover.
6. Don’t Over-Exfoliate
Microneedling already causes controlled micro-injuries to stimulate skin repair. Exfoliating too soon after treatment can strip the skin’s natural barrier, disrupt healing, and cause irritation.
Avoid all forms of exfoliation—chemical or physical—for at least 1 to 2 weeks post-treatment. Once your skin has calmed, you can resume gentle exfoliation as part of your regular skincare routine.
7. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
Many people don’t realize that alcohol and smoking can negatively affect microneedling results. Alcohol dehydrates the body, slowing down the healing process and impacting collagen production. Smoking reduces oxygen and blood flow to the skin, which interferes with regeneration.
For optimal results, stay hydrated, avoid smoking, and support your skin with a microneedling-safe diet.
Common Things You May Experience After Microneedling
Post-microneedling effects vary from person to person, but here are some common temporary reactions:
-
Redness due to increased skin sensitivity
-
Swelling from the punctures
-
Dryness or flaky patches as the skin heals
-
A shiny appearance due to boosted circulation
These effects are usually mild and subside within a few days.
Conclusion
Microneedling aftercare requires patience, proper hygiene, and the right skincare products. Avoid harsh ingredients, makeup, sun exposure, and anything that can irritate or infect the skin. Give your skin the time it needs to repair and rejuvenate naturally.
To enhance results, support your recovery by restoring your skin barrier using gentle and hydrating formulas.
FAQs
How long does it take to see results from microneedling?
Microneedling enhances your skin’s natural healing. Visible results typically appear within 6–7 days, but this can vary based on your skin type and aftercare routine.
Is microneedling an effective skin treatment?
Yes. Microneedling is a proven treatment that improves skin texture, reduces scarring, and stimulates collagen production. It also supports natural skin cell regeneration.
What things should be avoided after microneedling treatment?
Avoid wearing makeup, using harsh or active skincare products, exfoliating too soon, touching your face with dirty hands, and exposing your skin to the sun.
What are the crucial things to consider in microneedling aftercare?
Focus on hydration, sun protection, gentle skincare, and hygiene. Avoid anything that might irritate or stress your healing skin.