If you’ve just had a microneedling treatment, you’ll want to take certain precautions. Otherwise, your results may be the opposite of what you hoped for. Microneedling works well, but any negligence on your part can cost you time and money to reverse potential damage.
That said, microneedling aftercare tips are easy to follow and demand your commitment for only a few days.
Microneedling is one of the skin rejuvenation treatments offered by Transcend Total Body Rejuvenation in Utah. We’ve prepared this guide about what you can expect after a microneedling treatment and how to take care of your skin post-treatment.
Does Microneedling Have Side Effects?
Yes, microneedling has some side effects that remain visible on your skin for 2 days or so after your treatment. It’s best to take a day off from work if you’re self-conscious about your appearance.
Microneedling treatment irritates your skin. Expect redness, swelling, bruising, and slight puffiness in your face. It’s all normal. Your body is reacting to a perceived injury. This is a part of the process your body uses to repair damage by speeding up the production of cells. The swelling should subside within a day.
Your skin might look and feel sunburnt, and you can expect it to start flaking after day 2. But don’t pick at your skin! Let it shed off naturally. This condition can last for a few days. You can consult a doctor on the phone if you wish.
Some people may have an adverse reaction to the treatment. If you experience any of the following conditions, consult a doctor:
- Bleeding
- Headache
- Yellow or green discharge
- Hives
- Fever
- Nausea
- Severe discomfort
- Infection
- Allergic reaction
How to Care for Your Skin
Your skin undergoes a lot while microneedling treatment, and it deserves special treatment and rest. Swelling and redness will the first symptoms you notice. The bad news is that you can’t do anything to make them go away. The good is news is that the swelling should subside within 3-4 hours, and the redness will disappear in 24 hours.
Dry skin can be addressed by rinsing the treated area with tepid water, coconut oil, or a gentle moisturizer. A cooling face mask (don’t use ice) will help alleviate any inflammation.
We recommend products with Hyaluronic acid products with Hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is found in the extracellular matrix and plays a role in tissue generation and inflammation response. HA helps the epidermis (the outermost layer of your skin) carry out the regular activities of healing and repairing. Antioxidant serums also help repair the skin and fight the signs of aging.
Our expert medical professionals at Transcend Total Body Rejuvenation will be happy to guide you on a custom skincare regimen after your microneedling treatment.
Things to Avoid
Some mistakes may force you to get another treatment to undo the damage. Avoiding direct sun should be your priority. In rare cases, the skin may produce excess melanin upon exposure to the sun. This phenomenon is called hyperpigmentation.
Ideally, stay inside and always apply sunscreen before going outside. Tanning beds are definitely not allowed.
Chlorine in swimming pool water will irritate the exposed micro-tears in your skin and can make your skin red and itchy. Sweat will have a similar effect. So, say no to swimming, the gym, or any other strenuous activity that can cause you to sweat for a couple of days (96 hours or 4 days, to be specific).
And don’t try to conceal the redness and swelling of the skin with makeup. It will only make things worse by clogging the open pores of your skin and possibly cause an infection. Let your skin breathe.
Certain products contain Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acid, Retinol, and Vitamin C. These products act as exfoliants and can strip your skin of its natural oils. Avoid these products for the first three days.
How Long to Take The Precautions
Microneedling treatment doesn’t have a major impact on your daily routine. Taking three or four days off to wait for the symptoms to subside is enough. Most of the symptoms fade away within 4 days. Once you feel your skin has recovered, you can return to your previous skincare regimen, resume exercising, and follow your daily routine.
Most people feel completely normal and rejuvenated after 5 days. And if any of the adverse conditions persist, feel free to call our Utah microneedling treatment center.