Microneedling is soaring in popularity lately, but to be truly effective, you must do it correctly. When you know what to do before microneedling, the results will be more satisfying.
In this guide, we will go over the basics of pre-microneedling care so you can get the most out of your treatment.
What you need to know before the session
A cosmetic surgeon, dermatologist, esthetician, or even you can perform microneedling.
By rolling a pen with needles on it over your skin, you create tiny punctures that stimulate the skin’s surface to produce new collagen and elastin. In fact, you can use it anywhere on your body, from neck to mouth and from forehead to feet. It’s totally safe.
Microneedling techniques include derma rollers and dermapens. Although the procedure can help you achieve a better complexion and clearer skin, it is essential to know the side effects and drawbacks, particularly if you plan to perform it at home.
Consult a dermatologist before making any decisions. Before undertaking this procedure, you should be aware of the following pre-microneedling care instructions:
- Know your skin type and what you expect from the treatment
- Look for a reputable derma or esthetician
- Be sure to take proper nutrition to avoid complications like anemia and low blood pressure during the procedure.
- Ensure you get enough sleep (at least 8 hours) and avoid stress and anxiety before your appointment.
- Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications or anything else they may use during the procedure.
- Avoid microneedling if you have eczema or psoriasis.
- Tell your doctor if you have a scarring disorder, as it will significantly influence the results that you can expect. If you have multiple scars, you will need to treat them before the microneedling procedure.
- Many people believe that if they have light skin, microneedling won’t work. However, this is not true! People with pale skin and lighter-colored eyes tend to experience microneedling’s most dramatic results.
- If you’re pregnant or nursing, you should not undergo microneedling.
- Make sure you allow yourself at least two weeks after receiving Botox injections.
- Most importantly, make sure to come with a hat and scarf to wear following your treatment.
Now that you know what you need to know before the session let’s look at what you shouldn’t do before microneedling.
Pre-Microneedling Care – What to Avoid
Knowing what to avoid is a prerequisite to pre-microneedling care. Most of us are unaware that we shouldn’t do certain things before microneedling, which will drastically reduce the possibility of side effects and may even prevent dryness afterward.
Leave your skin alone
Microneedling can’t do its job if it’s interrupted by foreign substances, so it’s best to leave your skin alone before and after the treatment.
The use of soap and harsh cleansers can strip the skin of vital oils. It can cause inflammation and irritation, so you shouldn’t use it on skin that has already undergone microneedling.
Free up your skin
When performing microneedling, many people also opt to use retinol, antibiotics, topical antibiotics, hydroquinone, and vitamin C to help improve their skin. Avoid using these products at least 48 hours before or after the procedure since they can irritate your skin, making your skin less responsive to the treatment in the future.
Here are some more extra tips for you to keep in mind.
- Avoid scrubbing. You’ll strip the skin of its natural oils if you do.
- Do not perform chemical peels, waxing, and chemical depilatories two weeks before treatment.
- Take a cool shower or bath instead of a hot one.
- Avoid Accutane for the past six months.
- Don’t shave the day of your procedure.
- Avoid the sun or a tanning bed for at least 48 hours.
- Do not perform IPL/Laser procedures for the past seven days
- Avoid exercising, steaming, facial treatments, and any other treatment that will inflame your skin.
- Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before and after the procedure.
Inform your esthetician if you are taking a blood thinner, aspirin, or any other medication that easily makes you susceptible to bleeding. Be sure to tell them about any changes to your medical history and any medications you are taking.
How to prep your skin for the appointment
Arrive at your appointment with a clean face with no makeup, lotion, oil, deodorant, powder, perfume, or sunscreen, making sure your skin is free from breakouts. This will allow your skin to be at its calmest.
Microneedling, when combined with topical treatments, is more effective than the treatment alone. Ask your esthetician for an add-on such as PRP or peel that will go best with your treatment.
There may be some bleeding and mild discomfort during the treatment, which is temporary. Topical coolness or anesthetic cream may be used if needed for tolerance.
Pre-microneedling care for Microneedling at Home
Pre-microneedling care at home is just as important as an in-office treatment. At-home microneedling pens are not only effective treatment options, but they are also highly convenient. You can easily do it at home. To get the most out of microneedling at home, you must first prep your skin.
Step by step, you must prepare your skin for microneedling treatment. Taking the time to prepare before and after each treatment session is equally important. Before you begin, you should:
1. Cleanse your skin. Ideally, the skin should be well-cleansed and squeaky-clean before undergoing microneedling. When washing your skin, use only a mild cleanser and stay away from harsh exfoliating products. Dry your skin with a soft washcloth.
2. It’s okay to use topical numbing cream if you can’t handle the pricks, but we strongly discourage it.
3. After 30 minutes or so, wipe off the cream and start using the dermapen on your face.
4. The procedure takes about 20 minutes, and you can repeat it once or twice a week for three weeks.
5. After you’re done with your session, apply an antiaging serum such as medical-grade hyaluronic acid, which will help your skin absorb it even better. Remember to use it to your neck and décolletage as well.
Even though it is a safe procedure, although rare, infection and adverse reactions are possible during microneedling. There have been reports of unwanted side effects of this procedure, including redness, swelling, pain, and hyper or hypopigmentation. If you plan on doing it yourself, get the required training or have it done by a professional.
What to do after microneedling
Microneedling causes an inflammatory response in the skin, prompting it to produce collagen and elastin, two proteins that slough off years from your skin.
Hydrate!
Hydrating your skin after the treatment is incredibly important. Also, you should avoid the sun until your skin has fully recovered following the procedure.
Don’t touch your face
After a microneedling treatment, most redness will dissipate within 24 hours; however, avoid rubbing your face to prevent irritation. The skin should remain moist.
Cleanse gently
To rinse the area, use lukewarm water for the first 24 hours. The following day, use a gentle cleanser to cleanse your face and gently dry it. Keep your hands clean when touching the treated area.
Protect from the sun
After the initial 24 hours, apply a UVA/UVB sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 for two weeks. Mild sunscreens like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide work great every 2 hours during the day. Make sure it’s non-comedogenic too.
Juice up!
Consume pineapples or pineapple juice to alleviate swelling and bruises for a faster recovery.
Don’ts
After knowing what to do after microneedling, here’s what you shouldn’t:
- Don’t expose yourself to extreme temperature changes.
- 7 days post-treatment, avoid vitamin A products like Retin-A, Retinol, or Tazorac.
- Refrain from taking inflammatory medications for at least 2 weeks after treatment.
- You should not apply makeup or sunscreen the following day. If you must, use a clean makeup brush.
Final word
With proper pre-microneedling care, you will glow inside out. As well as being ready for treatment, your skin will effectively respond to it. By following these simple steps, you can minimize any potential side effects and maximize the benefits of microneedling. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments.