Microneedling

What is Microneedling Treatment?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses fine, sterile needles to create tiny micro-injuries on the surface of the skin. These controlled injuries stimulate your body’s natural healing process, boosting collagen and elastin production — two essential proteins for firm, smooth, and youthful skin.

The treatment can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, stretch marks, and uneven skin tone. Microneedling may be performed with or without PRP depending on your treatment plan.

How Does It Work?

  • Micro-injuries: Tiny punctures activate skin repair mechanisms.
  • Collagen Production: Boosts collagen and elastin for skin firmness and elasticity.
  • Healing & Renewal: Promotes smoother, younger-looking skin over time.
  • If PRP is added, platelet-rich plasma is derived from your own blood and applied or injected to support tissue repair and regeneration.

Pre-Treatment Instructions

  • Avoid blood thinners such as aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E for at least 5 days before treatment unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.
  • Do not use retinoids or exfoliating products for 3 days prior.
  • Inform your provider about any skin infections, cold sores, or other active skin conditions.
  • Avoid sunburn or tanning for at least 2 weeks before the procedure.
  • Disclose any allergies or sensitivities to topical anesthetics, skincare products, or blood draw supplies if PRP is included.
  • Arrive with clean skin and no makeup, lotion, sunscreen, or self-tanner on the treatment area.

What to Expect During Treatment

  • The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the treatment area.
  • A topical anesthetic cream is usually applied beforehand to minimize discomfort.
  • A sterile microneedle device is gently passed over the targeted skin.
  • You may feel pressure, vibration, prickling, or mild discomfort.
  • Mild redness and swelling are normal immediately post-treatment, resembling a moderate sunburn.
  • If PRP is included, 1 to 2 tubes of blood may be drawn and processed, which requires additional time before application or injection.

Post-Treatment Care and Expectations

  • Redness and swelling may last from a few hours up to 3 days.
  • Skin may feel tight or sensitive for 24 to 48 hours.
  • Mild peeling or flaking can occur during healing.
  • Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours post-treatment to prevent irritation unless otherwise directed.
  • Use gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and moisturizer.
  • Avoid hot showers, saunas, and intense exercise for 48 hours.
  • Do not pick, scratch, rub, or exfoliate the treated area.
  • Stay hydrated and follow all specific product recommendations given by your provider.

What to Avoid

  • Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 1 week and use SPF 30 or higher daily once appropriate.
  • Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids, scrubs, and harsh or active skincare until cleared by your provider.
  • Avoid chemical peels, waxing, laser treatments, or other skin treatments until fully healed.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, hot tubs, saunas, swimming, and excessive heat for 24 to 48 hours or as directed.
  • Avoid touching the treated area with unwashed hands.

Skin Care

  • Use only gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and approved post-procedure products until cleared.
  • Avoid pharmaceutical-grade skincare actives such as retinoids, acids, exfoliants, brighteners, and acne treatments until cleared by your provider.
  • Apply SPF 30 or higher daily once your provider confirms it is appropriate.
  • Do not pick at flaking skin or scabs.
  • Keep pillowcases, towels, makeup brushes, and anything touching the face clean during healing.

Additional Recommendations

  • Stay well hydrated before and after treatment.
  • Consider sleeping with your head slightly elevated the first night if swelling occurs.
  • Use cool compresses only if approved by your provider.
  • Notify your provider if you have a history of cold sores, as antiviral medication may be recommended.
  • Plan your treatment around important events, allowing time for redness, flaking, or sensitivity to resolve.

Integrative Therapy Options

  • PRP may be added to microneedling when appropriate to support skin rejuvenation and recovery.
  • Exosomes may be recommended as a regenerative topical add-on when appropriate.
  • LED Light Therapy may help calm visible redness and support post-treatment recovery.
  • Haus Ritual Facial or Hydrafacial may be recommended after healing to restore hydration and support glow.
  • Pharmaceutical-grade skincare may be recommended after healing to maintain results.

Risks and Possible Side Effects

  • Temporary redness, swelling, pinpoint bleeding, tenderness, and mild bruising.
  • Itching, dryness, tightness, peeling, or flaking during healing.
  • Acne flare, milia, irritation, or post-inflammatory pigmentation.
  • Rare risks include infection, scarring, delayed healing, or pigment changes.
  • Individuals prone to keloid scars or with certain skin conditions may be at higher risk for complications.
  • Results vary individually and cannot be guaranteed.

When to Contact Your Provider

  • Excessive swelling, redness, pain, or warmth beyond the expected healing period.
  • Signs of infection such as pus, severe tenderness, fever, or worsening redness.
  • Prolonged or worsening pigmentation changes.
  • Persistent bleeding or drainage.
  • Any other unusual or concerning symptoms.

Seek Immediate or Emergency Care If

  • You experience difficulty breathing, throat tightness, facial/lip/tongue swelling, or widespread hives.
  • You experience severe allergic reaction symptoms.
  • You develop severe pain, rapidly worsening swelling, fever, or symptoms that feel urgent or systemic.

Follow-Up Care

  • Initial improvements may be seen within 1 to 2 weeks, with continued enhancement as collagen develops.
  • Multiple sessions, often 3 to 6 treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, may be recommended for optimal results.
  • Results are gradual and cumulative.
  • Maintenance treatments may be recommended every few months depending on goals and skin condition.
  • Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and notify your provider of any concerns.

FAQ

Q: Is microneedling painful?

A: Most patients tolerate the procedure well with topical anesthetic; mild discomfort, pressure, or a prickling sensation may be felt.

Q: How long does recovery take?

A: Redness and sensitivity often improve within 24 to 48 hours, with full surface healing usually occurring within about a week depending on treatment depth and individual response.

Q: Can I wear makeup afterward?

A: It is best to avoid makeup for at least 24 hours to prevent irritation unless your provider gives different instructions.

Q: How often should I get treatments?

A: Treatments are commonly spaced every 4 to 6 weeks based on your provider’s recommendation and treatment goals.

Summary

Microneedling can help improve texture, fine lines, acne scars, stretch marks, and overall skin quality when performed with proper technique, realistic expectations, and appropriate aftercare. If you have any questions or concerns before or after your treatment, please contact our office.