Before & Aftercare for Smoother, Healthier Skin
Proper Microneedling preparation and attentive aftercare are essential to achieving optimal results from your microneedling treatment. Whether you’re undergoing classic collagen induction therapy or advanced systems like Infini RF or Morpheus8, how you treat your skin before and after the session significantly impacts the outcome.
Beyond just arriving for your appointment, the real work starts days before and continues for weeks after. Understanding proper microneedling aftercare, what to avoid, which products to use, and how to care for your skin during recovery helps to reduce side effects and improve long-term results. This guide covers everything from skin prep to aftercare, including timelines and product suggestions tailored to sensitive, post-treatment skin.
Microneedling aftercare
Immediately Microneedling aftercare (First 24 Hours)
- Expect redness and a sunburn-like sensation. Some swelling and pinpoint bleeding may occur.
- Do not touch your face with unclean hands. Avoid sweating, saunas, or heat exposure.
- Use only the post-procedure serum provided by your provider, typically a hyaluronic acid-based or stem cell serum.
Days 1–3: Active Healing Phase
- Cleanse gently with lukewarm water and a non-foaming, pH-balanced cleanser like La Roche-Posay Toleriane.
- Moisturize 2–3 times daily using a barrier-repair cream such as CeraVe, Avène Recovery Cream, or Alastin Skin Nectar.
- Apply mineral sunscreen even indoors—sun exposure can worsen pigmentation during healing.
- Expect tightness, dryness, and flaking. Do not pick or exfoliate manually.
Days 4–7: Skin Rebuilding
- Resume gentle actives if advised by your provider—start with niacinamide or ceramide-rich products.
- Continue sun protection and limit outdoor activity during peak sunlight hours.
- You may begin to see initial glow and texture improvements.
Days 7–14: Return to Routine
- You may return to your regular skincare routine, including retinoids or brightening agents, based on your skin’s tolerance.
- Consider layering serums with peptides or growth factors for enhanced collagen support.
Month and Beyond: Maintenance & Results
- Schedule your next session in 4–6 weeks, especially for concerns like acne scars or deep wrinkles.
- For comparison and planning multiple sessions, refer to our treatment comparison guide.
- Maintain your results with a consistent at-home routine and clinical treatments as advised by your provider.