Microneedling is a transformative treatment that improves your skin’s health, texture, and tone. It is quick, relatively painless, has no downtime, and offers numerous microneedling benefits. At ALC Medspa, we help many clients address common skin concerns like acne scars, dull skin, fine lines, and wrinkles through microneedling treatment.
So what is microneedling, and how can you benefit from the incredible results of this procedure? The key to success lies in these essential at-home aftercare tips.
What Is Microneedling?
During microneedling treatment, we use a specialized device made up of dozens of tiny needles to wound your skin. These wounds are superficial but effectively stimulate your body’s wound-healing process.
The natural healing process involves eliminating damaged skin tissues and increasing the production of new collagen and elastin, which support your skin’s structures, making your skin stronger, brighter, and healthier. Microneedling has the power to help with the following:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun damage and hyperpigmentation
- Acne scars and stretch marks
Each client begins their microneedling journey with a consultation. During your consultation, we can assess your skin and general health. We’ll also discuss your skin care goals to determine whether microneedling is an appropriate treatment option for you.
Microneedling is generally accessible and safe for all skin types. However, some people aren’t candidates for microneedling. You may not be a suitable candidate for microneedling treatment if:
- You’re experiencing an active acne breakout or have another inflammatory skin condition
- You’re pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have a history of skin cancer
- Take certain medications
During your consultation, we’ll discuss any of these potential contraindications to assess whether microneedling is a safe and effective treatment option for you.
Microneedling Aftercare
Lots of the magic happens during the actual microneedling procedure, but it’s equally important to support microneedling treatment with these critical microneedling aftercare tips.
1. Keep Your Skin Clean
First and foremost: keep your skin clean! After your microneedling treatment, your skin will be especially sensitive and vulnerable to irritation. Avoid any products that could cause a negative reaction in your skin.
For the first 24 hours after treatment, cleanse your face with a gentle cleaner. Make sure it’s non-abrasive. This means no exfoliants or harsh chemicals. Do not scrub while applying the cleanser, and stick to a simple, fragrance-free option you know your skin will tolerate well.
Avoid products containing alpha hydroxy acids and retinol, as these can irritate the skin. Any skin irritation may slow the healing process and dull your results. Avoid the temptation to exfoliate your skin in the week following treatment, as exfoliation could cause damage.
2. Use Hydrating, Soothing Products
After your microneedling treatment, your skin will probably feel a bit sore, similar to a sunburn. This is a normal and expected part of the healing process. During this time, it’s important that you apply hydrating, soothing serums and moisturizers to make your skin more comfortable.
Some ingredients to look for include hyaluronic acid and aloe vera. Hyaluronic acid draws water into the skin, allowing for deep hydration. Aloe vera is anti-inflammatory and can help soothe redness and inflammation.
Avoid harsh products, as well as any that contain alcohol. Alcohol can dry out the skin and cause unnecessary irritation. Furthermore, avoid fragrances and essential oils — keep it simple.
3. Use SPF and Protective Clothing
Since your skin is especially sensitive following microneedling services, you should be especially vigilant about protecting it from the sun. By protecting your skin from the sun, you can avoid damage and hyperpigmentation.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply your SPF every day, even on cloudy days, since UV rays can still reach your skin.
Make sure you follow the directions when using SPF. Generally, you need to reapply every two hours to maintain proactive protection. You should also wear protective garments like longer sleeves or hats.
4. Avoid Strenuous Exercise and Sweating
For the first day or two after microneedling treatment, you should avoid activities that cause a lot of sweating, such as strenuous exercise. Sweat tends to irritate your skin (which, as you know by now, is especially sensitive after microneedling) and can potentially lead to a breakout.
In addition to avoiding certain types of exercise, you should also avoid hot showers, baths, saunas, and other activities involving excessive heat. Give your skin time to heal properly before returning to your exercise routine.
5. Be Patient and Consistent
Microneedling results are amazing, but they’re usually not immediate. Depending on your skin, it can take several weeks for you to see the full microneedling benefits.
This is because it takes your body time to go through the wound-healing process and create new collagen and elastin proteins. So be patient, and don’t be discouraged if your microneedling results aren’t immediately visible.
For issues like fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, you may see visible improvements after just one session. But if you have a more severe skin issue like deep acne scars, you may need multiple treatments to start seeing results.
Microneedling for acne scars typically requires several treatments, making microneedling a process rather than a quick fix. Consistency is key, so make sure you stick to the treatment plan we recommend and take the right steps for microneedling aftercare.
Microneedling Services in Gurnee, IL
At ALC Medspa, we’re proud to offer microneedling treatment for a variety of skin concerns. Whether you’re interested in microneedling for acne scars or want to rejuvenate your complexion, we can help. Contact us today to schedule your personalized consultation.
