Aftercare for Microneedling - Tips, Products to Avoid, Expected Results, & Skincare Strategy
Written by: Aither
l
Published on May 27 2025
l
Time to read 8 min
Skip the exfoliants, retinol, and vitamin C for now. Also, avoid any skincare products with harsh chemicals meant for exfoliation—these are pretty standard tips for microneedling aftercare.
Aither Beauty will thoroughly discuss why certain skincare regimens are beneficial while others might harm the treatment.
What To Do After Microneedling?
Derma roller for face creates tiny punctures in the skin, so one must take precautions to protect your skin’s barrier as it heals.
After the treatment, the healing punctures will make your skin more sensitive. Avoid your usual skincare routine and refrain from using certain products for the first 2 to 3 days.
Even if you’re having the session at home, you’ll still need extra skin care the days after the microneedling treatment.
Here are a few manageable reactions to anticipate:
• Your skin may appear flushed, similar to moderate sunburn.
• You can expect redness and swelling. This may last for about 24 hours. There isn’t much you can do to eliminate the redness immediately.
• Swelling and mild skin peeling are normal for up to 48 hours after the procedure. You might also experience bumps, breakouts, and dry skin.
Healing from Microneedling - Recovery Time:
| Time-Frame | Symptoms/Changes |
|---|---|
| 60 Minutes | Possible spot bleeding. Pores still open. |
| Up to 24 hours | Minor swelling. |
| 1 – 2 days | Minimal swelling. Dry/tight sensation. |
| 2 – 3 days | Minimal itching. Minor skin flaking. |
| 3 – 4 days | Possible mild dryness. |
| 4 – 5 days | Full recovery with normalized function. |
| 3 weeks | Pigmentation starts to improve. |
| 4 – 6 weeks | Reduction in lines and wrinkles begins. |
Right after using Aither derma rollers or derma stamps, your skin may appear flushed or noticeably red—similar to the look of a mild to moderate sunburn after a long day outdoors. This redness subsides within 24 to 48 hours, although other effects, such as peeling or breakouts, may linger a bit longer.
Most visible microneedling recovery time occurs within the first one to five days post-treatment, but deeper skin healing can continue for up to two months.
If you notice bumps, breakouts, or dryness, these are normal reactions, though not everyone will experience them. Using a gentle cleanser and keeping the skin well-moisturized can ease these effects.
Fortunately, the downtime associated with microneedling is brief compared to other cosmetic treatments like laser therapy.
What Not to Do After Microneedling
It's important to follow a personalized microneedling aftercare routine to ensure safe and effective healing after your treatment. Tailored aftercare protects your skin during the recovery process and maximizes the overall benefits of microneedling.
Overview of What to Avoid After the Treatment:
• Exfoliants, Retinol, and Vitamin C: Refrain for at least 48 hours.
• Harsh Chemicals: This includes products with glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).
• Sun Exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure/tanning beds to prevent further irritation.
• Saunas and Steam Rooms: The heat can exacerbate redness and swelling.
• Swimming Pools: Stay away from bodies of water that may introduce bacteria or chemicals to your skin.
• Strenuous Exercise: Avoid intense physical activities that may cause excessive sweating.
• Avoid Touching or Picking: Resist the urge to touch, pick, or scratch the treated area to prevent potential infection and scarring.
• Make-up: Avoid applying anything on your face to cover up the redness for at least 24 to 48 hours.
Exfoliants, Retinols, and Vitamin C
Steer clear of skincare products that contain strong exfoliating ingredients or harsh chemicals. Fragranced products, glycolic acid, and AHAs should also be avoided.
Hold off on using retinol and vitamin C serums for at least 48 hours after your microneedling session.
After two full days, you can consider slowly reintroducing products into your routine. If you use potent anti-aging formulas, ease back into them rather than resuming your full regimen right away.
What happens if I use vitamin C serum after microneedling? Using vitamin C serum immediately after microneedling can cause irritation, redness, or stinging, as your skin is more sensitive and vulnerable during the healing process.
Sun Exposure
Consistently use sunscreen during the first two weeks following microneedling. Be diligent about applying it any time you’re heading outdoors in the days after your treatment.
During the first week, avoid extended sun exposure, as your skin will be more sensitive and at greater risk for sun damage than normal.
Follow These Important Sun Protection Tips:
• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply it every two hours while outside.
• Wear protective clothing like long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats to shield your skin further.
• Try to stay out of direct sunlight during peak hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., to minimize the risk of sun damage.
Steam Rooms, Saunas, and Strenuous Exercise
Exposing your skin to heat and moisture too soon can lead to several complications, such as:
• Increased Redness and Swelling: Intensify the natural inflammation and redness that occur after treatment.
• Slower Healing: Excessive moisture and heat can interfere with your skin’s recovery.
• Higher Risk of Infection: The warm, humid environment of steam rooms can harbor bacteria.
To protect your skin, steer clear of steam rooms and any activity that generates heat or sweating—this includes strenuous workouts and hot showers.
Swimming Pools
Microneedling aftercare at home also includes avoiding swimming pools. Pools contain chlorine and can harbor bacteria, even if they’re treated. These microorganisms can easily enter the micro-injuries in your skin.
Chlorine and other pool chemicals can cause stinging, dryness, and irritation on freshly microneedled skin. As a general rule, avoid swimming (in pools, lakes, or the ocean) for at least 48–72 hours after microneedling.
Touching or Picking Your Face
Maintaining clean, germ-free skin after microneedling to support healing, prevent infection, and achieve optimal results. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your face, and only do so when cleansing or applying serums and moisturizers.
For the first few nights, up to a week, sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated to minimize swelling. Avoid sleeping on your stomach or side, as contact with your pillow can expose your healing skin to bacteria and dirt. Change your pillowcases frequently to reduce the risk of contamination.
It’s also important to resist the urge to pick at your skin. Post-treatment skin is delicate and vulnerable.
Applying Makeup
Avoid applying makeup after microneedling. Makeup can block the pores on your newly exposed skin and may lead to breakouts.
Applying makeup too soon can disrupt this natural healing process. Makeup products, especially those with fragrances or preservatives, can irritate freshly treated skin. This irritation can lead to inflammation, redness, or even breakouts.
Be patient while the redness fades. In the meantime, use gentle, unscented products with natural ingredients to soothe your skin.
Skincare Regimen Day After Microneedling
• Consult your dermatologist prior to the application of cleansers, toners, or scrubs within 2 to 3 days to confirm they won't aggravate side effects.
• Apply almond oil to nourish and soften the skin. Almond oil offers a gentle, hydrating solution.
• Soothe your skin with aloe vera, which offers cooling and healing properties.
• To combat dryness, apply coconut oil to lock in moisture and hydrate your skin.
• Use diluted, alcohol-free witch hazel to gently cleanse dry skin.
Dietary Intake: How Omega-3, Zinc, and Vitamin C Boost Outcomes
Microneedling aftercare products are not the only things you have to consider. A good healthy diet can also aid in the healing process.
| Supplement | Benefit | Description | What To Eat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Omega-3 |
• Reduces Inflammation • Improves Skin Barrier Function |
Strengthens the skin’s natural barrier to lock in moisture and protect against external irritants. |
Cold water fish: salmon, sardines, sturgeon, & tuna Flax seed Plant oils |
| Vitamin C |
• Boosts Collagen Production • Provides Antioxidant Protection |
Vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis. It is a cofactor that stabilizes collagen mRNA and enhances collagen protein production. |
Citrus fruits Leafy greens Bell peppers |
| Zinc |
• Aids in Skin Repair and Regeneration • Prevents Acne and Skin Issues |
Plays a role in every stage of wound healing. Promotes the synthesis of collagen and proteins, tissue development, cell growth, and immune system function. |
Oysters Red meat Whole grains |
Potential Causes of Complications If the Do and Don'ts After Microneedling Isn’t Followed
Side effects of microneedling with derma roller 25mm is normal but disregarding microneedling after care instructions will worsen the appearance of your skin.
Infections
May occur when instruments are not properly sterilized. Bacteria can enter the tiny punctures created during the procedure. This highlights the importance of ensuring that the equipment is sterilized. Aside from unsterilized skincare tools, not following the after care for microneedling can cause infection.
If your skin gets infected, it can become more red, swollen, and painful than normal. You might see pus or bumps around the treated area. Infection slows down healing and can cause lasting scars or dark spots.
Granuloma
Granulomas can develop if certain ingredients, like active skincare products, penetrate the skin too soon during the healing process. These lesions appear as persistent, rash-like bumps and may be difficult to treat, though in some cases, removal is possible.
While the formation of granulomas is extremely rare, it's a serious complication. Straying from proper post-microneedling aftercare can increase the risk of infection and, in turn, lead to long-term or even permanent skin damage.
Allergic Reactions
You can have an allergic reaction if you don’t follow post-microneedling care instructions. Your skin is more sensitive and vulnerable, so using harsh products or exposing it to irritants too soon can trigger redness, itching, swelling, or other allergic responses.
When to Seek Medical Advice After Microneedling Treatments
Microneedling is generally regarded as a low-risk procedure, with most people experiencing minimal side effects.
However, be aware that, on rare occasions, these side effects can escalate and may require medical attention.
Knowing the warning signs and symptoms of complications can help you take timely action to protect your health.
Symptoms to Look Out For:
• Fever Over 100.4°F (38°C): May indicate an infection or inflammation.
• Nausea: Could be a sign of a more serious underlying issue, possibly an infection or an adverse reaction to the treatment.
• Skin Rashes/Hives: The sudden appearance of hives might suggest an allergic reaction to the needles.
• Yellow or Green Discharge: Any yellow or green discharge from the treated area is a clear sign of infection.
• Bleeding: While slight bleeding during the procedure is normal, a healthcare professional should address continued bleeding afterward or the presence of large amounts.
Recovery from Microneedling Can Be Sweet & Simple
Staying vigilant about potential complications is necessary when recovering from microneedling. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the symptoms listed above to ensure a quick response to reactions.
Following the proper skincare steps after derma rolling ensures optimal results and minimizes potential side effects. Choose gentle, nourishing products and avoid harsh ingredients to support your skin's recovery. Prioritizing aftercare is essential for protecting your skin’s barrier, promoting healing, and achieving the radiant, smooth complexion that derma rolling offers.
Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in maintaining healthy, glowing skin post microneedling.