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Microneedling: What to Expect & Aftercare

June 19, 2023

Microneedling is a popular treatment that helps improve skin texture, scars, pore size, fine lines, and wrinkles. It works by creating small injuries in the skin, which in turn starts the wound-healing process in our bodies. This helps stimulate new collagen, elastin, and other important skin structures that help to improve skin quality. People may be familiar with the procedure but are unsure of what to expect post-treatment. Let’s discuss what to expect post-microneedling, as well as what aftercare steps are needed to ensure the best results!

By: Kristin Gaskins, NP

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What to Expect Immediately After Microneedling

Immediately after a microneedling session, your skin may be pink to red in color. Typically, the intensity of redness increases over the first hour or two after treatment once all the topical anesthetic has worn off. It is normal to experience a slight warmth or heat sensation to the skin as well. Normally, this feels like a mild sunburn. Often, this feeling lasts the remainder of the day of treatment, but for most people, it is resolved by the following day. The skin will have a pink or red appearance the following day or two as well, which then slowly resolves. Some patients may experience dry, flaking skin up to 5-7 days post-treatment. This is completely normal.

Photo of an Atalo Aesthetics practitioner holding a SkinPen mirconeedling tool

Aftercare tips for Microneedling

The steps taken over the first 48 hours are crucial to ensure the best outcomes from the treatment. During the first 48 hours, think of your skin as an open wound– we did just create thousands of microscopic injuries. This means that you need to be cautious of the types of products you use on your skin. It is best to discuss all products with your provider before the completion of your treatment to determine when you can resume use. It is also important to avoid sweating, as well as direct sunlight.

After the first 48 hours, you should be able to resume most of your normal skincare products, as well as your usual exercise routines. As mentioned above, sometimes patients can experience dry, flaking skin for up to one week post-treatment. Summertime is a great time to schedule microneedling. It is OK if you have a slight tan, but you should not have a fresh tan or sunburn on the day of your treatment. It is important to consider all these things when determining the best time to schedule your microneedling treatment.

How Often Should You Have Microneedling Done?

With more aggressive treatments like microneedling, it’s always best to discuss a treatment plan with your provider. Some individuals may need more treatments to address certain skin concerns. Some see great results with fewer treatments spaced further apart. At the end of the day, scheduling a free consultation with one of our providers here at Atalo Aesthetics in Cincinnati, OH is the best way to see just how many treatments is best for your skin type and concerns!

For general anti-aging, we typically recommend 2-4 treatments a year. For those looking to address more prominent acne-scarring or texture concerns, 2-3 treatments spaced at least 4-6 weeks apart can help to get things under control. After a more aggressive series to tackle a specific concern, individuals may move to fewer treatments throughout the year to maintain their results.

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If you have any additional questions in regard to microneedling aftercare—head to our treatment page! We break down some of our most commonly received questions. There you’ll also find a more thorough breakdown of the treatment and pricing. If you’re looking to schedule a treatment or complimentary consultation with one of our providers, just fill out our new patient inquiry form and we’ll be in touch!