Microneedling treatment has emerged as a popular and effective cosmetic procedure for flawless and radiant skin. It evokes the body’s natural healing process and ramps up collagen production. However, the journey to transformative results does not end with the treatment itself. Microneedling aftercare plays a pivotal role in unlocking its full potential.
In this article, we’ll share essential aftercare tips to elevate your skincare game effectively. Plus, we’ll discuss the things you should avoid after a microneedling session. Curious about those? Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about microneedling aftercare.
What Is The Importance of Immediate Microneedling Aftercare?
Microneedling aftercare is crucial in maximizing the benefits of your microneedling treatment. This essential phase enhances the outcomes and minimizes potential risks. Let’s explore three key reasons why post-treatment care is indispensable.
1. Promote Optimal Healing
After the microneedling sessions, the skin enters a sensitive healing phase. Proper aftercare supports the skin’s natural healing response. It allows the micro-injuries to heal effectively. As a result, it maximizes the production of collagen and elastin.
2. Prevent Infection and Irritation
The skin is more susceptible to infections and irritation post-microneedling. Immediate aftercare helps maintain the skin barrier and prevent complications. This approach is especially important for those with sensitive skin or skin concerns.
3. Enhance Treatment Efficacy
To fully reap the benefits of microneedling, proper aftercare is essential. Following your doctor’s aftercare tips allows the skin to rejuvenate. It also aids your skin’s recovery process. Most importantly, it ensures the longevity and effectiveness of the microneedling results.
How to Take Care of Your Skin After Microneedling?
Microneedling aftercare is essential to maximize the benefits of this transformative skin treatment. Here are five microneedling aftercare tips for optimal skin healing:
1. Cooling and Soothing
Post-microneedling, your skin might feel similar to moderate sunburn. You can apply cold packs for immediate relief. It is recommended to put soothing gels to reduce inflammation.
Both cooling and soothing are crucial steps for calming the skin. These also minimize skin irritation and speed up the healing process. Remember, always use gentle pressure to avoid further aggravating the skin punctures.
2. Avoid Sun Exposure
After a microneedling procedure, your skin becomes more sensitive to UV radiation. It also increases the risk of sun damage. That is why you should avoid direct sun exposure. You can use a tinted sunscreen or a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to shield your skin. Wearing protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats can also provide additional protection.
Read also: Before and After Microneedling: Things You Should Know
3. Hydrate
Keeping your skin hydrated is crucial for effective skin rejuvenation. Use hyaluronic acid serums or heavier moisturizers to maintain hydration levels. These products help soothe and nourish your skin. They also enhance the collagen production process and aid in the turnover of skin cells.
4. Gentle Cleansing
Your skin becomes delicate after a microneedling session. So it is important that you choose mild cleanser skincare products. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and avoid harsh chemicals
Also, only use lukewarm water when cleansing to prevent further irritation. You can cleanse your skin twice daily. It is a recommended cleansing frequency to maintain a clean skin surface without over-stripping natural oils.
5. Moisturize
Moisturizing is a pivotal step in microneedling aftercare. Gentle moisturizers can reduce redness and inflammation. However, it is important to use non-comedogenic moisturizers to avoid clogged pores.
Also, opt for products rich in natural ingredients like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients aid in healing the skin while promoting an even skin tone and texture. Apply moisturizer gently and frequently to maintain a healthy skin barrier.
What Are The Things You Need to Avoid After A Microneedling Session?
After a microneedling session, it’s crucial to follow specific guidelines to promote proper healing. Microneedling aftercare maximizes the benefits of the treatment. Here’s what you need to avoid post-microneedling to ensure optimal healing:
Sun Exposure
Your skin becomes highly sensitive to sunlight after a microneedling procedure. You MUST avoid direct sun exposure and UV radiation to prevent sun damage skin. When going out, always use high-SPF sunscreen. Wear some protective clothing to safeguard your healing skin.
Makeup Application
It’s advisable to avoid applying makeup for 24 hours after treatment. Applying heavy or full-coverage makeup immediately can clog the skin. It can also hinder the healing process. Give your skin some time to heal before reintroducing cosmetics. Wait at least 24 hours after microneedling. Or as your skincare professional recommends before using any makeup brush or cosmetic product.
Harsh Skincare and Alcohol-Based Products
Avoid skincare products with alcohol and harsh chemicals for a few days. Do not use products with strong anti-aging formulas as well. Those with abrasive ingredients can get too harsh on the wound healing response. Opt for gentle cleansers. It is also best to use a hydrating serum.
Hot Baths and Steam Rooms
Sunburn-like effects like redness and mild swelling are the potential side effects of microneedling. Hot environments lead to unwanted inflammation and irritation. Avoid hot baths, steam baths, and saunas to minimize adverse reactions and excess irritation.
Intensive Exercise or Physical Activities
Strenuous exercise can cause sweating and elevate body temperature. This can potentially cause additional skin irritation. It can also disrupt the healing phase, especially for vulnerable skin. Avoid any strenuous activities for a few days post-treatment.
Touching or Picking at the Skin
Your skin may experience micro-injuries that make them vulnerable. Avoid touching or picking at your skin to prevent infection and scar reduction. Remember, your skin is in a delicate state. Any touching can hamper the recovery process and can cause the appearance of scars.
Chemical Peels and Laser Treatments
Post-microneedling, your skin is too sensitive for additional invasive procedures. Avoid getting chemical peels and laser treatments. Do not use products with glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, and beta-hydroxy acids as they may damage new collagen stimulation.
Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs
Chlorinated water and hot tubs can cause significant skin irritation. It can also cause dry skin. You should wait until your skin is fully healed before you use swimming pools and hot tubs.
Can You Wear Makeup After Microneedling?
After a microneedling session, one of the common queries is about makeup application. Understanding the right time and type of makeup is essential. This will help you maintain the health of your rejuvenated skin.
It is advised to avoid makeup for at least 24 hours after treatment. This precaution minimizes the risk of infection. It also allows your skin the necessary time to initiate the recovery process.
When you return to makeup, here are some guidelines to ensure you do so safely:
- Choose Non-Irritating Products. Look for makeup that is gentle and free from harsh chemicals. Products labeled non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, or formulated for sensitive skin are typically safer choices. Avoid makeup with active ingredients like glycolic acid or retinol that can irritate the skin channels.
- Focus on Hydration. Your skin will benefit from hydrating serums. They will help your skin maintain a hydration level after microneedling. Consider using a tinted moisturizer or a BB cream enriched with hyaluronic acid or vitamin C serum for added skin benefits.
- Light Application. Apply makeup with a light hand. You must use a clean makeup brush to prevent bacteria from going into the treated area. It’s crucial to ensure all tools are sanitized to avoid any potential side effects.
- Sun Protection: If you’re using a tinted sunscreen, ensure it’s a broad-spectrum one with an SPF of 30 or higher. This helps protect your skin from sun damage. More than that, it maintains the results of your treatment.
- Nighttime Care: Remove your makeup gently using a mild cleanser. Follow it up with your regular skincare routine. This step is crucial to prevent clogging of pores and to keep the skin hydrated.
Wrapping Up
Microneedling aftercare ensures quick recovery and maximum benefits achievement. To ensure a smooth healing process, diligently follow your skincare professional’s instructions. If you have specific concerns or experience unusual side effects, immediately consult your doctor.
Also, it is important to note that individual responses to microneedling can vary. While others may experience a quick healing process, it may take longer for some. Multiple microneedling sessions are often recommended for optimal results. Schedule your sessions several weeks apart.
For further guidance on microneedling aftercare, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Inner Ocean Center for Healing. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your journey towards beautiful skin is safe, effective, and aligned with your skin health goals.
