Microneedling is a dermatological procedure that naturally restores the skin’s youthful appearance. As a minimally invasive treatment, microneedling uses tiny needles to create microscopic injuries to the skin. These newly created tiny wounds stimulate the skin to repair itself by producing new collagen. This in turn reduces fine lines and wrinkles, erases scars, minimizes large pores, and improves the overall appearance of the skin.
While the procedure itself is straight forward, some people might not consider how to care for the skin before or after microneedling. In order to enjoy all of the benefits, it’s important to be aware of microneedling pretreatment care and microneedling aftercare. Here are some things to keep in mind so you are well-prepared for your microneedling sessions.
Microneedling Pretreatment Care
Because microneedling creates small pricks in the skin using needles, it’s important to make sure your skin can handle the procedure. The first step of microneedling pretreatment care is to avoid creams or medications that can increase skin sensitivity. Products containing alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), beta hydroxy acid (BHA), salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and benzoyl peroxide should be avoided at least a week before the actual treatment session.
If you are taking any medication or have other health conditions, it is important to let your skin care professional know. While microneedling is relatively safe, it is not recommended for everyone. Your health practitioner will assess whether the procedure is appropriate given your medical history. Some conditions that might disqualify you from pretreatment care include pregnancy, actively inflamed skin, and allergies to lidocaine or other topical medications.
What to expect on the day of the treatment
Untreated, natural skin is one of the basic requirements for microneedling pretreatment care. On the day of treatment, you will be asked to wash your face and remove any cream or makeup. Your doctor or aesthetic clinician may also apply topical anesthesia to reduce the pain and make the procedure comfortable for you.
If you are undergoing microneedling with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a medical practitioner will draw some blood from your arm. Your own blood will be used to extract plasma cells that will further stimulate healing and collagen formation in the skin. In other cases, your provider may use hyaluronic acid, stem cells, or human growth factor serums to promote skin restoration.
Microneedling Aftercare
Right after the procedure, a calming cream or moisturizer will be applied to your face as part of microneedling aftercare treatment. You may notice redness after the procedure, but don’t be alarmed. It usually goes away within 24 hours. Some people may experience slight bleeding and bruising in the treated area.
In the following week after treatment, your skin may experience some swelling or inflammation. During this time, it’s recommended to refrain from using an anti-inflammatory drug as this could lessen the total effects of skin rejuvenation. If you need to wear makeup, light mineral types are the most preferred.
Within a few days after treatment, you may experience a mild sunburn feeling followed by peeling. The skin may be dry during this time and a moisturizer will be recommended by your clinician. Don’t forget that microneedling aftercare involves regularly washing your face with a gentle cleanser. You can start a gentle facial cleanse 6-hours post-treatment and pat dry using a soft towel.
It’s important to avoid increased sun exposure to prevent your skin from getting more irritated. Remember, your skin is healing at this time and the last thing you want to do is cause further damage from the sun’s harmful rays. If you have to go out in the sun, apply sunscreen as part of your microneedling aftercare routine, according to your specialist’s instructions.
Microneedling requires multiple sessions for you to see the best results. Most people opt to receive 5 to 8 sessions with a 4 week break in between each session. Maintenance treatments may be required semi-annually or annually to help keep the skin youthful and glowing.
Personalized Microneedling Services
Rocky Mountain Skin Care Clinic specializes in the most advanced skincare treatment services. Using the most up-to-date techniques, our clinicians provide personalized care with results that make a difference. Book a consultation to learn more about our microneedling treatments.
Microneedling is a collagen induction therapy that naturally promotes skin rejuvenation. While this is an effective method for achieving healthier, younger looking skin, you’ll experience the best results when you follow proper pre- and post-treatment care.
If you want to learn more, you can call us at (720) 625-8020 or use our online contact form!