At the Naderi Center, we know the days after your microneedling treatment are just as important as the procedure itself. That’s why these microneedling post operative instructions will walk you through calming redness, soothing sensitivity, and protecting your treatment area—so your skin heals smoothly and reveals a healthier, more radiant you.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR MICRONEEDLING TREATMENT
After microneedling your skin will be red and flushed similar to if you had a moderate sunburn. Redness should be greatly reduced within 24-48 hours. You may experience swelling, burning, itching, bruising, soreness, skin tightness, flakiness, sensitivity and dryness. It may take up to 5-7 days for the skin to heal depending on the extensiveness of your treatment. Make sure to wash your face with only cool water and mild cleanser provided and pat dry skin. A Mineral based sunscreen of SPF 30+ should be applied and reapplied every 60-90 minutes while outdoors.
Key Takeaways
- Use gentle skincare products . Use ONLY your post-treatment products for the first four days after your treatment. No vitamin A products for 7 days post treatment (Retin A, Retinol, Tazorac). No exfoliating medications, toners, harsh chemical products or devices for at least 7 days post treatment. No chemical peels for 14 days post treatment.
- Treatment of Pain/Discomfort . Ice packs and Tylenol can be used if you are feeling discomfort or swelling. Do not use anti-inflammatory medications such as Motrin or Ibuprofen as they may decrease the desired inflammatory benefits of micro-needling.
- Bruising and Swelling . Eat fresh pineapples or drink pineapple juice to minimize bruising and swelling. Arnica supplements can be taken to help with any bruising.
- No sun exposure . Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 14 days, ideally 30 days after the procedure. This also includes avoiding tanning beds or self-tanning products.
- Do not pick at skin . No picking at any flaking skin or scabs and avoid using any exfoliating skincare products.
- Shaving . Do not shave for 3 days after procedure and longer if the skin is still irritated.
- Exercise and Heat . No sweating, exercising, jacuzzi, sauna or steam bath until skin irritation has resolved (3-7 days).
DAY 1 AFTER MICRONEEDLING: HOURS AFTER TREATMENT & INITIAL AFTERCARE TIPS
What to expect
- Red, stingy, sunburn‑like skin; tightness and sensitivity at the hours after treatment mark.
Side effects & how to treat
- Cool-water rinse & gentle cleanser: Wash only with cool water and the supplied cleanser; pat dry.
- Moisturize: Apply your post‑treatment balm or cream every 2–3 hours.
- Cold therapy & pain relief: Use ice packs in 10 min on/10 min off cycles; take Tylenol as needed—avoid NSAIDs (Motrin, Ibuprofen) to preserve beneficial inflammation.
- Makeup & products: No makeup; no other Skin care products.
Outcome & recommendations
- Redness should begin to subside within 24 hours.
- Drink plenty of water and rest.
- If PRP was applied, leave the solution on overnight—wash off next morning.
DAY 2 AFTER MICRONEEDLING: CONTINUED AFTERCARE TIPS & HEALING PROCESS
What to expect
- Skin remains dry, tight and red; sensations similar to Day 1.
Side effects & how to treat
- AM/PM cleanse with gentle cleanser; pat dry.
- Moisturize with kit cream only.
- Continue ice packs and Tylenol as needed.
- Avoid sun, sweating, sauna/jacuzzi, and any non‑kit Skin care products.
Outcome & recommendations
- Redness should noticeably decrease but sensitivity persists—plan light, indoor activities.
DAY 3 AFTER MICRONEEDLING: MAKEUP & AFTERCARE TIPS
What to expect
- Pink tone, reduced swelling; early signs of the barrier beginning to repair.
Side effects & how to treat
- Makeup: You may apply mineral makeup very lightly.
- Cleansing & moisturizing: Continue only your post‑treatment kit.
- Flaking/peeling: Normal—do not pick, scratch, or exfoliate.
Outcome & recommendations
- Comfort improves; you can socialize with light, mineral‑based coverage.
DAY 4 AFTER MICRONEEDLING: SKIN CARE PRODUCTS TRANSITION & LIGHT ACTIVITY
What to expect
- Minimal swelling and bruising; some flaking persists.
Side effects & how to treat
- Skin care products: Switch to your own mild cleanser and moisturizer today.
- Sun protection: Continue mineral SPF 30+, reapply every 60–90 min.
- Activity: Gentle walks OK; still avoid heavy sweating and heat exposure.
Outcome & recommendations
- Barrier restoration ramps up—keep skin hydrated and protected.
DAY 5 AFTER MICRONEEDLING: ADVANCED AFTERCARE TIPS & EARLY RESULTS
What to expect
- Skin looks and feels smoother; early improvement in texture and wrinkles.
Side effects & how to treat
- Products: You may resume regular Skin care products—including vitamin A formulas—if no irritation.
- Flaking: Darker flakes may slough off naturally—do not pick.
Outcome & recommendations
- Noticeable glow returns; maintain hydration and diligent sun avoidance.
DAYS 8–28 AFTER MICRONEEDLING: COLLAGEN REMODELING & FINAL RESULTS
What to expect
- Collagen induction peaks—firmness, tone, and wrinkle reduction become apparent.
Side effects & how to treat
- Late‑onset dryness or bruising: Manage with extra moisturizer, pineapple or Arnica supplements.
- Full routine: Reintroduce gentle exfoliants and actives as tolerated.
Outcome & recommendations
- Optimal results emerge around Week 4.
- Continue broad‑spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) and reapply every 1–1½ hours outdoors.
- Schedule follow‑up with your dermatologist for maintenance.
H2: Lifestyle & Nutrition for Optimal Healing
H3: Hydration & Diet
Proper microneedling aftercare isn’t just about topical products—what you eat and drink fuels your skin’s repair after a cosmetic procedure.
- Water goals: Aim for at least 8–10 cups (64–80 oz) of water per day to keep your treatment area hydrated and support lymphatic drainage. Well‑hydrated skin heals faster and reduces post‑treatment tightness.
- Collagen‑supporting nutrients:
- Vitamin C: Vital for collagen synthesis. Include citrus fruits, berries or a 500 mg supplement daily to help smooth fine lines and acne scars.
- Zinc: Plays a role in wound healing and inflammation control. Snack on pumpkin seeds, lentils or consider a 15–30 mg supplement as part of your treatment instructions.
- Pineapple & Arnica protocols:
- Pineapple: Eat ½–1 cup fresh pineapple or drink unsweetened pineapple juice once daily for 2–3 days post‑procedure. Bromelain enzymes can reduce bruising and swelling.
- Arnica supplements: Take as directed on the label (typically 2–3 pellets, 2‑3 times per day) starting immediately after treatment to further minimize bruising around acne scars or delicate areas.
Sleep & Stress Management
Quality rest and stress control are often overlooked parts of successful microneedling aftercare:
- 7–8 Hours of Sleep: During deep sleep, your body produces growth hormone and ramps up collagen production in the dermis. Consistently getting 7–8 hours helps your skin rebuild more efficiently and reduces inflammation.
- Stress Reduction: Elevated cortisol from chronic stress can slow healing and exacerbate redness in the treatment area. Try breathing exercises, gentle yoga or meditation in the evenings.
- Gentle Facial Massage: Once flaking has subsided (around Day 4–5), a light lymphatic drainage massage can encourage fluid movement and reduce puffiness. Use clean hands and minimal pressure—avoid over‑manipulation, which can irritate freshly needled skin.
When to Contact Your Provider
Even with perfect treatment instructions and home care, occasional issues can arise. Please call our office during office hours (Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM) or use the after‑hours line if you notice any of the following warning signs:
- Signs of Infection:
- Increasing pain, warmth or redness spreading beyond the treatment area
- Pus or yellowish discharge at needle sites
- Prolonged Swelling/Redness:
- If significant swelling or redness persists beyond Day 5, rather than continuing to improve
- Allergic Reactions to Post‑Op Products:
- New rash, hives, severe itching or sudden tightness after applying your post‑treatment serum or cream
Prompt attention helps us address complications swiftly and ensures your microneedling results—for acne scars, fine lines or overall skin rejuv