Microneedling Aftercare

What you put on your skin after microneedling can make all the difference in your results. To help you get the most our of your treatment, here is a guide to what your skin needs during each phase of the healing process.

Immediately After Microneedling (1-10 minutes)

Right after your session, your skin enters the Haemorrahage Phase as blood rushes to the new microchannels. This is a cruicial time for clotting and initial healing.

What to use:

• Hyaluronic Acid: A medium to high molecular weight hyaluronic acid serum is ideal. It helps hydrate and soothe without causing irritation.

• Red LED Light Therapy: A red LED device that doesn't touch the skin can help reduce inflammation and support healing.

What to avoid:

Do not apply any active ingredients (Retinol, Vitamin C, etc.), as they can cause irritation or chemical burns.

The First Few Days (1-4 days)

This is the Inflammatory Phase, where your skin's natural healing mechanisms kick into high gear. Platelets release growth factors and cells work to prevent infection and start producing new collagen. You might notice some mild swelling, flaking or peeling.

What to use:

• Gentle and Hydrating Products: Stick to gentle ingredients like Vitamin E, hylauronic acid and moisturisers with calming bases like green tea extract.

• Soothing Masks: A hyaluronic acid sheet mask, especially one chilled in the fridge, can provide deep hydration and relief.

• Antioxidants: Products with resveratrol can help support your skin's recovery.

• Sun Protection: Always apply a broad-spectrum physical SPF (mineral-based with zinc oxide) to prevent sun damage and hyperpigmentation.

• Gentle Exfoliation: If you experience flaking, you can use a wet washcloth to gently buff away dead skin. Avoid all chemical exfoliations and physical scrubs.

Days 4-14

During the Proliferation and Fibroblastic Phase, collagen-producing cells (fibroblasts) are hard at work repairing the skin and creating new collagen. Your skin is busy regenerating tissue and healing the microchannels.

What to use:

• Essential Support: You can reintroduce products containing hylauronic acid, Vitamin E and copper peptides.

• Introducing Actives: Gradually reintroduce active ingredients like Vitamin C and Vitamin A (retinol/retinoids). Wait until at least day 7 and if your retinol is strong (0.25% or higher), wait a full 14 days to avoid irritation.

• Sun Protection: Continue to use broad-spectrum SPF. Stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible, ideally until day 7.

Day 14 and Beyond

This is the Maturation Phase, where your skin starts to show that post-microneedling glow. The new collagen is being supported by a robust structural network and your skin is remodelling itself.

What to use:

Return to Normal: You can now go back to your full skincare routine including your usual cleansers, toners and serums.

Continued Protection: Don't forget to keep using broad-spectrum SPF every day.

Internal Support: Consider taking Vitamins A, C, E, calcium and Omega 3 in a multivitamin to support your skin's health from the inside out.

Why Following This Protocol Is So Important

Using the wrong products too early can cause serious problems, such as chemical burn or granulomas (a type of permanent rash). These issues are rare, but they highlight the importance of being patient and following the proper aftercare protocol to ensure you get safe and beautiful results.

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Post-Microneedling Aftercare: A Quick Reference Guide

Phase	Days After Treatment	What's Happening To Your Skin	What To Apply To Your Skin Topically
Haemorrahage Phase	1-10 minutes	Your skin is clotting and starting the initial healing process.	Tepid water and hyaluronic acid.
Inflammatory Phase	1-4 days	Microchannels are healing and your skin is fighting bacteria and kicking off collagen production.	Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E and products with a base of green tea extract, kiwi oil or linseed oil.
Proliferation & Fibroblastic Phase	4-14 days	New collagen and growth factors are being made to further heal and repair your skin.	Hyaluronic acid, kiwi oil, linseed oil, Vitamin E, copper peptides and azelaic acid. Reintroduce Vitamin A and C after day 7.
Maturation Phase	14 days and beyond	The new collagen is being supported by a strong structural network, giving you a serious glow.	Your full, regular skincare routine can be resumed.

Important: Throughout all phases, always use a broad-spectrum physical SPF to protect your skin from sun damage.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is microneedling?

A: Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure. We use a specialised device with fine needles to create precise, microscopic punctures in the top layer of your skin. These tiny "micro-injuries" stimulate your body's natural healing process, which in turn boosts the production of collagen and elastin—the proteins that keep your skin firm, smooth and youthful.

Q: What skin concerns can microneedling treat?

A: Microneedling is highly effective for a wide range of skin issues, including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Acne scars and other types of scars

• Enlarged pores

• Uneven skin texture and tone

• Hyperpigmentation and sun damage

• Stretch marks


Q: Is microneedling safe?

A: When performed by a licensed and experienced professional in a sterile environment, microneedling is considered a very safe procedure with minimal risks. Unlike some heat-based treatments, it is safe for all skin tones and does not carry a risk of worsening pigmentation issues.

Q: What are the common side effects?

A: After the procedure, it's normal to experience some temporary side effects that typically resemble a mild to moderate sunburn. These can include:

• Redness and swelling

• Dryness and tightness

• Mild peeling or flaking

• A sensation of warmth or itchiness


These effects usually subside within a few days. Serious side effects like infection, bruising or permanent scarring are extremely rare when the procedure is done correctly and aftercare advice is followed.

Q: How many sessions are needed to see results?

A: While you may notice a glow after just one session, most people need a series of treatments for optimal results. A course of 3 to 6 sessions - spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, is typically recommended. The full benefits, such as increased collagen and improved skin texture, become more visible 3 to 6 months after the initial treatment as your skin continues to remodel itself.

Q: How long do the results of microneedling last?

A: The longevity of your results depends on various factors, including your age, skin condition and aftercare routine. Generally, the effects can last for several months. Many people opt for maintenance treatments every 6 to 12 months to prolong their results and continue supporting their skin's health.

Q: What are some examples of suitable products?

A: Kiehl's Ultra Pure High-Potency Serum 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid, SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel, CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, La-Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5, The Ordinary 'Buffet' + Copper Peptides 1%, Heliocare 360 Mineral Tolerance Fluid Factor 50, Avène Mineral Cream Factor 50.