Microneedling has become a popular skin treatment in recent years. The procedure uses fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. This process triggers the body’s natural healing response. As a result, new collagen and elastin form. Over time, the skin looks smoother and firmer.
But results do not come from the procedure alone. Preparation and aftercare are equally important. If the skin is not cared for properly, irritation, delayed healing, or infection can occur. According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, microneedling has become increasingly popular ( increased by more than 150 percent over five years in Canada) across British Columbia, including Kelowna. With this growth, providers stress that success depends on how clients prepare and recover.
This guide explains what to do before and after microneedling. It also answers common client questions about face washing, workouts, makeup, and skincare ingredients.
Preparing Your Skin Before Microneedling
Why Pre-Care Matters
Think of your skin as soil before planting. If the soil is dry or full of weeds, seeds will not grow well. Similarly, if your skin barrier is irritated, inflamed, or sunburned, it will not respond well to microneedling. Proper preparation creates the right foundation.
Which skincare products should you stop before microneedling?
One of the most important things is to pause certain active ingredients about a week before your appointment unless your dermatologist advises otherwise. Here’s what to avoid and why:
- Retinol and retinoids: These speed up cell turnover. That’s great for anti-aging, but before microneedling, they make skin thinner and more sensitive.
- Vitamin C (high concentrations): Potent antioxidant, but too strong before treatment can increase redness.
- Exfoliating acids like AHA(Alpha Hydroxy Acid) and BHA(Beta Hydroxy Acid): They break down the outer layer of skin, leaving it fragile.
- Benzoyl peroxide and strong acne treatments: These dry out the skin and compromise the barrier.
If you’re unsure about your products, bring your routine to your provider. They can tell you exactly what to pause and what to continue.
Lifestyle Habits to Adjust Before Treatment
Microneedling isn’t just about skincare products. Your lifestyle choices also impact results. A few simple adjustments help set you up for success:
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: Alcohol thins your blood and can make you bruise more easily. Smoking reduces blood flow, which slows down the healing process and collagen production.
- Limit sun exposure: Sunburned skin should never be treated. Use SPF 30+ daily before your appointment.
- Stay hydrated: Water supports skin repair. Aim for at least eight glasses per day in the week leading up.
- Moisturize regularly: Keeping skin nourished ensures it can handle the procedure better.
Why should you share your health history with your medical esthetician or dermatologist?
Full disclosure prevents complications. Communicate the following in writing and verbally.
- Medications. Isotretinoin, oral antibiotics, anticoagulants, immunosuppressants.
- Supplements. Vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo biloba, garlic extract.
- Allergies. Lidocaine, chlorhexidine, nickel, latex, adhesive tapes.
- Recent procedures. Botox, fillers, chemical peel, hydrafacial, laser resurfacing, laser hair removal, dermaplaning.
- Skin conditions. Eczema, psoriasis, melasma, recurrent herpes simplex, keloid tendency.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding. These states change risk-benefit decisions.
Your clinician will adjust needle depth, passes, occlusion, and home care based on this information.
Do You Need Numbing Cream for Microneedling?
Yes, numbing cream makes microneedling more comfortable. The practitioner applies it across the skin and waits 20 to 30 minutes for it to take effect. Patients then describe the sensation as light scratching or tingling rather than sharp pain. The forehead and nose may feel slightly more sensitive, while the cheeks and jawline often feel painless. Shallow microneedling for texture or glow may not require numbing, but deeper sessions for scars and collagen stimulation work best with it.
What happens on the day of microneedling?
Arrive with a clean face. Remove makeup and sunscreen. Avoid heavy moisturizers that leave occlusive films. A numbing agent may be applied. Needle depth varies by region and indication. Post-procedure erythema is expected. Mild pinpoint bleeding can occur.
Immediate Aftercare for Microneedling
First 24 Hours
After microneedling, the skin barrier is open. This means bacteria or harsh products can cause problems. In the first day:- Do not wear makeup.
- Avoid touching your face unless hands are washed.
- Wait 6 to 8 hours before washing. Some providers may suggest waiting until the next morning.
When to Wash Face After Microneedling
After the initial waiting period, cleanse gently. Use only a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Pat the skin dry with a soft towel. Do not rub.What to Apply After Treatment
Hydration is the priority. Products that work well after treatment include:- Hyaluronic acid serum: attracts water and keeps skin plump.
- Gentle moisturizer with ceramides, peptides, or glycerin: supports the skin barrier.
- Mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide: once the skin is less sensitive and you need to go outdoors.
Days 1–7 Post Treatment
Day 1–3: Sensitivity Phase
Skin often looks red, feels tight, and may swell slightly. This is normal. During this phase:
- Skip exercise, hot showers, and saunas. Sweat increases bacteria and heat worsens redness.
- Do not exfoliate or use scrubs.
- Avoid retinol, vitamin C, and acids.
Focus only on hydration and sun protection.
Day 4–7: Recovery Phase
The redness fades. Some people notice flaking or peeling. This is the skin shedding old cells. Do not pick or scratch. Instead:
- Apply moisturizer several times a day.
- Continue with hyaluronic acid for hydration.
If skin feels itchy, use a calming product with niacinamide.
Beyond One Week
Resuming Regular Skincare
Once the skin barrier has recovered, you can slowly reintroduce active ingredients. Start with gentle vitamin C serums. Wait 7–10 days before using retinol. Always test a small area first.
Exfoliation can resume after about two weeks, depending on sensitivity. Choose mild exfoliants. Avoid aggressive scrubs.
Which skincare products are safe immediately after microneedling?
- Hyaluronic acid serum. Apply two to three times daily to bind water.
- Ceramide or peptide moisturizer. Support barrier lipids and structural proteins.
- Occlusive balm on high-friction areas around the nose or mouth if instructed.
- Mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for outdoor exposure once stinging subsides.
Common Questions About Microneedling Care
Can I Wear Makeup After Microneedling?
Wait at least 24–48 hours. The skin needs time to close. If you must wear makeup, mineral-based powders are gentler. Always apply with clean brushes or sponges.Can I Exercise After Microneedling?
Skip workouts for 24–48 hours. Sweat and heat can irritate the skin and increase infection risk. After two days, light exercise may be fine if redness has subsided.Can I Do Other Treatments After Microneedling?
Timing matters:- Botox or fillers: wait 2 weeks.
- Chemical peels: wait 4 weeks.
- Hydrafacial: often done before microneedling, not after.
- Laser or laser hair removal: wait 4–6 weeks.
Can You Do Microneedling While Pregnant?
It is not recommended. Hormones can make skin more sensitive. Research on safety during pregnancy is limited.Conclusion
Microneedling can improve skin texture and tone when done correctly. The treatment works by boosting collagen and encouraging cell renewal. But the procedure is only one part of the process. Proper preparation and aftercare are essential for safe healing and long-lasting results.
Before treatment, stop irritating products and protect the skin. After treatment, focus on hydration, gentle care, and sun protection. Give your skin time. Results build gradually as collagen forms.
