What to Expect From Microneedling Before and After Treatment
Microneedling. Collagen induction therapy. Whatever you call it, this anti-aging procedure has helped countless clients regain control over the aging process and reverse the once-inevitable effects of time. Browse the before-and-after pics on any esthetician’s website, and you’ll see the skin-tightening, face-lifting, age-defying results others have already achieved. Today, we’re walking you through the preparation, procedure, and healing process so you know exactly what to expect from microneedling appointments.
What skin concerns can microneedling address?
Before we dive into pre- and post-procedure skincare tips, let’s explore the after-effects so many clients enjoy with microneedling.
Fine lines and wrinkles
The primary superpower of microneedling is its ability to stimulate the production of vital connective tissues like collagen and elastin. Unlike many topical skincare products that only mask the effects of aging, this procedure addresses the root cause of fine lines and wrinkles. With consistent treatments, you should see noticeable skin rejuvenation.
Scars and stretch marks
That collagen boost that improves skin laxity can also support wound healing and cellular regeneration. Old acne scars, surgical scarring, and stretch marks may soften and fade, especially when treated using radiofrequency (RF) microneedling or platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
Uneven skin texture
As we age, it takes longer for our bodies to slough off dead skin cells, leading to rough, bumpy patches and enlarged pores. Microneedling can boost cell turnover to smooth uneven skin texture.
Hyperpigmentation
Enhanced cellular regeneration also improves uneven skin tone by replacing highly pigmented cells, discolored by hormonal changes or years of sun damage, with healthy skin.
Acne-prone skin
While microneedling isn’t used to treat active acne, it can be very beneficial for clients with oily, acne-prone skin. By balancing oil production and boosting cell turnover, it can tighten enlarged pores, minimize redness, and lighten post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation leftover from past breakouts.
Read more: What To Expect Before and After a Chemical Peel
How to prepare for your microneedling appointment
Proper skin prep before microneedling will help you maximize your results long after your initial treatment series is complete. Here are our best skin care tips to help you make the most of your sessions:
Avoid sun Exposure
Sun exposure increases skin sensitivity and raises the risk of adverse side effects, such as irritation, redness, and hyperpigmentation. To prevent complications after treatment, avoid direct sunlight, wear protective clothing, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every day starting at least two weeks before each microneedling appointment.
Stop using certain products
One to two weeks before treatment, you’ll need to adopt a minimalist skincare routine. Stop using harsh exfoliants and active ingredients, including:
Retinoids and retinol
AHA/BHA
Benzoyl peroxide
Vitamin C
Instead, stick to a gentle cleanser, fragrance-free moisturizer, and high-quality sunscreen.
Skip waxing or hair removal
Waxing, shaving, electrolysis, and depilatory creams can all create micro-injuries in the skin, like bumps after waxing or scrapes from shaving. And this can increase the risk of damage during the needling process. So limit hair removal in the treatment area to seven to ten days before microneedling.
Stay hydrated
When your skin is properly hydrated, it’s more resilient and bounces back more quickly from procedures like microneedling. Drink plenty of water as your appointment approaches, and be sure to moisturize regularly. You can also add a hyaluronic acid serum to your skincare routine to support hydration inside and out.
Consult with your esthetician
Your esthetician will offer detailed skin prep instructions before microneedling to help maximize results after treatment and avoid adverse effects. Discussing all the skincare products and medications you use will help them tailor these guidelines to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Related: What Is a Facial? Treatment Guide and Tips To Prep
What should you expect after your microneedling treatment?
When it comes to achieving your aesthetic goals, how you care for your skin after microneedling is just as important as the prep before your appointments.
Immediately after your treatment
As the numbing cream wears off and you return to your regular routine, your skin may feel red, swollen, and sensitive. Some people describe the sensation as being similar to a sunburn. During this time, it’s essential to avoid:
Heat and sweat
Makeup
Touching your face
Sun exposure
Harsh topical products
Apply a cool compress and a soothing hyaluronic acid serum, followed by a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen 24 hours after the treatment.
Recovery period
Throughout the healing process, your skin may feel tight and dry, eventually flaking and peeling as new skin cells emerge. Continue following your minimalist skincare routine for at least a week, waiting until your skin has fully recovered to reintroduce gentle exfoliation.
Long-term results
Four to six weeks after microneedling, you should start to see the early signs of collagen generation. Fine lines soften, pores shrink, and your skin tone gradually evens out.
While treatment plans and appointment frequency vary based on your starting point, cosmetic concerns, and aesthetic goals, most people achieve optimal results after four to six sessions scheduled four to eight weeks apart, and maintain these effects indefinitely with occasional touch-up appointments.
Related reading: Microdermabrasion vs Microneedling: What’s the Difference?
Nourish your skin, enhance your glow with microneedling at Stormie Skin & Wellness!
Ready to take your own before-and-after microneedling pics? Stormie Skin & Wellness can help you transform your skin! From collagen induction therapy to the perfect lash lift, we’re here to bring your dreams to life. Book an appointment today to get started!