What to expect after micro needling?

Views: 114     Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2024-01-08      Origin: Site

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Micro needling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that can help treat various skin concerns like acne scarring, fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, hyperpigmentation, and more. During the treatment, a dermaroller or microneedling pen with fine needles is used to create tiny punctures in the top layer of the skin. This triggers the skin’s natural wound healing process, leading to increased collagen and elastin production.

While micro needling is considered safe when performed correctly, it is a medical procedure that penetrates the skin barrier. As such, it's normal to experience some side effects and downtime as the skin recovers. Knowing what to expect after your treatment session can help you plan accordingly. In this article, I’ll walk through the stages of healing and recovery so you can understand the post-procedure timeline and properly care for your skin.


What to expect after microneedling on face?

Immediately after the treatment, your facial skin will likely be red, inflamed, and sensitive. There may be pinpoint bleeding from the needle punctures. This is normal and no cause for concern. Here's what you can expect in the hours and days following the procedure:

· Redness and inflammation: This is caused by increased blood flow and collagen stimulation under the skin's surface. Redness usually peaks at 24-48 hours post-treatment before gradually subsiding. Swelling may also occur.

· Pinpoint bleeding: The tiny puncture wounds bleed minimally. Apply gentle pressure with a clean tissue to stop bleeding. Cleanse skin to wash away dried blood.

· Temporary bruising: Some clients experience bruising, especially around delicate areas like the eyes. Bruises typically fade within 5-10 days. Avoid blood-thinning medications beforehand to minimize bruising.

· Tenderness and tightness: Your skin will likely feel tender, taut, and sensitive like a sunburn. This may last 2-3 days as the tiny wounds heal. Avoid picking or rubbing the skin.

· Dryness and flaking: Microneedling thins the top layer of skin, leading to dryness, peeling, flaking and shedding around 3-7 days post-treatment. Let skin peel naturally and keep moisturized.

· Itchiness: As your skin recovers, the treated area may feel itchy as part of the healing process. Avoid scratching and use antihistamines if needed.

· Sensitive skin: Skin will be extra sensitive to products and sunlight for a few days. Use only gentle, non-irritating products and diligent sun protection.

With proper aftercare, your face usually heals fully within 7-10 days. Redness may persist slightly longer. Contact your provider if irritation, swelling or discharge lasts beyond 10 days.


What to expect after microneedling treatment?

Besides the face, microneedling can treat other body areas like the neck, chest, hands, legs, back, and more. The post-procedure timeline is similar but the recovery may take a bit longer depending on the treated location. Here’s what to expect:

· Immediately after: Redness, pinpoint bleeding, and tenderness in the treated area. Your practitioner will cleanse the skin and apply a soothing serum or mask.

· 24-48 hours: Inflammation, redness, swelling, and sensitivity peaks during this time. Skin may feel warm, tight, and mildly sunburned. Follow aftercare instructions diligently. Avoid strenuous activity that can cause sweating.

· 3-5 days: Dryness, flaking, peeling, and shedding of dead skin cells occurs as the epidermis regenerates. Skin may itch. Use gentle cleansers and hydrating moisturizers only.

· 1 week: Skin starts feeling less tight and sensitive. Redness and tenderness continue to subside. Minor bruising if present begins to fade. Swelling goes away.

· 2 weeks: Most visible signs of treatment have resolved. Skin looks calmer and brighter. Continue nurturing the skin's moisture barrier until it feels fully healed.

· 1 month: Collagen regeneration peaks around 4 weeks post-treatment. Improvements in tone, texture, scars and other skin concerns become more noticeable.

For body areas, the overall healing process usually completes in 2-4 weeks depending on extent of treatment. Avoid sun exposure and vigorous activity during recovery. Wear loose, breathable clothing that won't rub or irritate the treated skin.


What to do after microneedling?

Proper aftercare is vital for healing the micro-punctures, preventing infection and encouraging new collagen formation. Here are some do's and don'ts for post-microneedling care:

Do:

· Gently cleanse, moisturize and protect the skin as recommended by your practitioner. Use only products tolerated by sensitive skin for 1-2 weeks.

· Apply antibiotic ointment like Polysporin to the treated area for 2-3 days to prevent infection. Cover with gauze if oozing persists.

· Use cool compresses, antihistamines and non-aspirin pain medication to relieve discomfort, itching or swelling.

· Stay hydrated and consume a balanced, vitamin-rich diet to aid healing. Avoid alcohol for 48 hours.

· Wear mineral makeup and sunscreen if going outside. Seek shade and wear protective clothing and hats.

· Sleep on your back to avoid rubbing the treated skin on the pillow.

Don't:

· Pick, scrub or remove any flakes, scabs or dead skin. Let them slough off naturally.

· Expose treated skin to direct sun, tanning beds, hot showers, extreme heat or cold.

· Go swimming until the puncture wounds have fully closed, around 5-7 days.

· Use exfoliants, retinoids, scrub brushes, masks or other harsh products during the first week.

· Engage in exercise, sports or strenuous activities that cause sweating and friction for 2-4 days.

· Take anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen which may impede healing.

Follow all post-care guidelines diligently for proper healing and best results from your microneedling treatment. Call your practitioner if you have any concerns.


When to wash face after microneedling?

It’s important not to wash or wet the treated skin too soon after microneedling when the microscopic wounds are still fresh. Here are some general guidelines on when you can wash your face after the treatment:

· Avoid washing for 6-8 hours after the procedure. Simply blot and pat dry if needed. Keep the skin calm and protected.

· Light washing can begin 24 hours after microneedling. Use lukewarm water and a very gentle, non-foaming cleanser. Avoid scrubbing.

· Cleanse once daily for the first 3 days. Then gradually increase to twice daily as skin starts peeling.

· Use your hands and pat dry with a soft towel. Avoid washcloths, spinning brushes, and excessive rubbing when washing.

· Shower with your back to the water to prevent direct spray on treated skin for about one week.

· Take quick, lukewarm showers. Avoid very hot showers which can irritate the skin.

· After 10-14 days, skin can tolerate regular cleansing as long as gentle products are used. Exfoliants should still be avoided.

Always consult your practitioner on when to resume normal face washing after your microneedling session. Prematurely wetting the perforated skin can lead to irritation and infection. Be especially careful with wetting freshly treated fragile areas like around the eyes.


How to remove dead skin after microneedling?

Microneedling causes controlled damage to the epidermis that leads to dryness, flaking, peeling and shedding of dead skin cells about 3-7 days post-treatment. Do not pick, peel or scrub off the skin. Here’s how to remove the dead skin safely:

· Let the skin shed naturally. Picking can remove healthy skin and cause scarring.

· Gently wash once or twice daily with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser. Massage in circular motions with your hands or a soft washcloth.

· Apply a hydrating toner or pH-balanced mist to help loosen flaky skin. Avoid alcohol-based toners.

· Apply a moisturizer like hyaluronic acid serum followed by a gentle cream. This helps hydrate and slough off dead cells.

· Use a soft muslin cloth or towel to very gently buff away some dead skin after a shower once the flakes start shedding easily. Avoid abrasive loofahs or brushes.

· An oatmeal soak can help soothe and hydrate the skin, allowing dead cells to shed off. Add a cup of colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath and soak for 15-20 minutes.

· DIY scrub recipes with ingredients like sugar, coffee, yogurt, honey etc should be avoided for 2 weeks post-microneedling as they can be too harsh.

· Exfoliating acids, retinoids, vitamin C, and scrubs should not be used until skin is fully healed as they may cause irritation.

· After 10-14 days, very gentle chemical or physical exfoliation 1-2 times a week may help remove residual dryness and accelerate cell turnover.

· Consult your provider if the peeling stage lasts longer than 7-10 days.

With patience and proper care, you can safely remove the dead skin cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin post-microneedling. Avoid picking and let the skin renew itself at its own pace.


How long after microneedling do you look normal?

Many people want to know when they can expect their skin to look normal again after undergoing microneedling treatment. Here is a general timeline:

· Days 1-3: The skin looks red, swollen and inflamed with tiny scab formation. Visible symptoms peak at 48 hours. Social plans should be avoided.

· Days 3-7: Redness and sensitivity starts to improve. Scabs disappear and dead skin sheds off. Swelling resolves. Skin may still look mildly sunburnt. Mineral makeup can be applied for social outings.

· Days 7-10: Most redness, dryness, peeling and sensitivity resolves. Minimal makeup can conceal remaining redness. Most people feel comfortable socially interacting but skin is still healing.

· Days 10-14: Skin looks closer to normal but may have some residual pinkness, especially around delicate areas. Serums and moisturizers are still needed. Sun protection is a must before going outside.

· Weeks 3-4: Skin looks fully healed without any visible inflammation. Dryness and flaking gives way to renewed radiance. Makeup optional. Sun protection and skin-nurturing products continue to be used.

· 1 Month: Skin improves as collagen regeneration peaks. Enhancements are noticeable compared to before treatment.

With a single session of microneedling, it takes about 7-14 days for skin to look relatively normal again, with one month needed for optimal rejuvenation effects to emerge. Be patient, avoid picking, and keep skin protected as it recovers. Multiple sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart may be needed for desired results.


What are the do's and don'ts after microneedling?

Following proper microneedling aftercare is vital for healing the tiny skin wounds, preventing complications and encouraging collagen renewal. Here are some key do’s and don’ts:

Do:

✔ Gently cleanse and moisturize the skin daily. Avoid harsh ingredients.

✔ Use sun protection diligently for at least 2 weeks post-treatment.

✔ Follow all ointment and home care instructions from your practitioner.

✔ Drink extra water and consume vitamin C and vitamin E rich foods to aid healing.

✔ Sleep on your back with clean bedding for the first week.

✔ Use cool compresses or oral antihistamines to relieve itching or discomfort.

✔ Stick to a healthy skin-friendly diet. Avoid alcohol for 2 days post-treatment.

Don't:

❌ Expose treated skin to direct sun, excessive heat, sweat, chlorine, dirt etc.

❌ Pick, scratch or remove scabs, dead skin or dried blood.

❌ Use any exfoliants, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide or harsh products until fully healed.

❌ Engage in strenuous exercise, sports or activities that cause friction.

❌ Go swimming until all puncture points have closed and sealed, around 5-7 days.

❌ Take aspirin, ibuprofen or anti-inflammatory medications.

❌ Massage, use facial steamers, scrub skin or have facials done until healed.

Following all microneedling aftercare guidelines is crucial for proper healing and optimal results from your treatment. Be gentle with your skin and consult your provider if any concerns arise during the recovery period.


Can you notice a difference after 1 microneedling session?

Many patients wonder whether they’ll notice a difference in their skin after just one session of microneedling. Here’s what to expect:

· Immediately after: Skin will look red and irritated with tiny pinpricks that bleed minimally. No visible improvement will be apparent.

· Days later: As skin recovers, you may notice some plumping and smoothness once swelling subsides around 5-7 days post-treatment. However, this is temporary.

· 2 weeks: Most patients do not see significant, lasting changes after just one session. Redness and dryness should be resolved but skin tone and texture is unlikely to look markedly better.

· 1 month: This is when first signs of improvement may emerge. Some fading of scars, fine lines or hyperpigmentation are noticeable as collagen renewal peaks. However, results are mild.

· 2-3 months: Multiple treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart are necessary to see moderate changes in skin concerns like acne scarring, wrinkles, enlarged pores, uneven tone, dullness etc. Gradual but noticeable improvements develop over time.

So while patients may observe subtle effects, one microneedling treatment alone is not enough for most people to achieve significant aesthetic enhancements. The cumulative effects of 3-6 repeated treatments spaced 1-2 months apart lead to the best anti-aging and rejuvenation results that can last 1-2 years. Be patient as results take time to develop. Discuss your goals and expectations with your provider to determine an appropriate treatment plan. Consistency is key.


What are the stages after micro needling?

The skin goes through various stages as it recovers after a micro needling treatment. Understanding the timeline helps set proper expectations:

Immediately after: The skin appears red and inflamed with tiny bleeding pinpoints. No visible improvements will be noticeable yet. Follow post-care instructions carefully.

Days 1-3: Skin looks reddened with microscopic scabbing. Swelling and tenderness peaks at 24-48 hours. Use only gentle products and keep skin clean. Avoid sun.

Days 3-7: Inflammation improves steadily. Dryness, flaking, peeling and shedding occur as epidermis regenerates. Hydration is essential during this stage.

Days 7-14: Skin increasingly returns to normal. Redness, sensitivity and scabs resolve. A subtle glow may emerge but changes are mild after just one session. Use sunscreen diligently.

Weeks 3-6: Collagen production ramps up, leading to firmer, brighter looking skin. For optimal results, multiple treatments are needed during this key stage to boost and prolong effects.

Month 2+: Visible improvements in tone, texture, scars and other concerns develop gradually over time. Additional maintenance sessions can sustain benefits. Protect results with proper skincare.

While healing is often complete within 2 weeks, the full micro needling process extends over months as the dermis remodels itself. Have realistic expectations, stick to your practitioner’s advised treatment schedule, and be patient for optimal anti-aging benefits.

In conclusion, undergoing professional micro needling can take your skin's rejuvenation to the next level by safely triggering natural repair and collagen growth mechanisms in the deeper layers. But the treatment itself is an injury, so proper aftercare is crucial during the multi-stage healing timeline for you to get the best results with minimal side effects or complications. Have patience, avoid picking and sun exposure, gently nourish the skin daily, and follow all your practitioner's guidelines for a smooth recovery. Within a month you’ll start noticing improvements, but the real transformation unfolds gradually over 3-6 sessions spaced 1-2 months apart. Listen to your skin, treat it with care, and your microneedled complexion will reveal itself in all its refreshed glory over time.

Beijing Sano Laser S&T Development Co., Ltd., Ltd. is a professional manufacturer of OEM and ODM in beauty equipment field. We are striving to become the leader in beauty equipment ,With high quality,best service and most competitive prices to our clients. Welcome Contact us.

Tel:+86 15321516360

Whatsapp:+86 15321516360

E-mail:Alex@sanolasers.com


References:

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/microneedling-aftercare

2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325110

3. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/microneedling

4. https://www.byrdie.com/microneedling-aftercare-4846347

5. https://www.hsshospital.com/patient-education/microneedling/

6. https://www.premierlaserandskincare.com/microneedling-aftercare/


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