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Microneedling Aftercare: A Simple Guide for Fast Healing

  • 5 min read

Guide:

Microneedling is one of the most effective treatments for smoother skin, refined pores, and a refreshed glow. To ensure the best possible results, it’s important to take key steps during your recovery and in the months that follow.

Proper microneedling aftercare helps your skin heal faster, reduces the risk of side effects, and enhances collagen production for better long-term results. We’ve put together this simple guide to help you protect your skin and get the most out of every session.

Let’s get started…

Day 1 – What to Expect Immediately After Microneedling

Right after your microneedling treatment, your skin will likely feel warm, tight, and slightly sensitive — similar to a mild sunburn. Redness is completely normal and usually fades within 24–48 hours.

Here’s what to focus on during the first 24 hours:

  • Keep your skin clean and product-free for at least 4–6 hours.
  • Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
  • Skip your usual skincare routine (no serums, moisturizers, or SPF just yet).
  • Avoid makeup, exercise, and sun exposure.

If your skin feels extra dry or irritated before bedtime, your provider may recommend a soothing hyaluronic acid serum or post-treatment balm.

Day 2–5 – Healing Timeline and What to Do Each Day

By Day 2, redness will fade and your skin may begin to feel dry or slightly rough. 

Some patients notice light peeling or flaking during this phase. That’s a normal part of the microneedling healing process.

Here’s your day-by-day skincare plan:

  • Cleanse: You can resume gentle cleansing with a fragrance-free cleanser
  • Moisturize: Use a mild, hydrating moisturizer (no acids or actives)
  • Protect: Apply a mineral-based SPF 30+ daily
  • Do not exfoliate or scrub, even if flaking occurs

Remember, flaking is your skin renewing itself. Picking or peeling can interrupt healing and increase the risk of scarring. Let the skin shed naturally.

Makeup After Microneedling—When Is It Safe?

We recommend waiting at least 24–48 hours before applying any makeup. If you had a deeper treatment (such as RF microneedling), you may need to wait longer.

Once your skin is intact (no open or peeling areas), you can apply breathable, non-comedogenic makeup. You can also use lightweight tinted moisturizers or mineral-based foundations.

Avoid heavy, oil-based, or long-wear products that can clog pores or disrupt healing.

Products to Use and Avoid After Microneedling

After microneedling, your skin barrier is temporarily compromised. That means what you apply really matters.

Use:

  • Hyaluronic acid serum.
  • Gentle, hydrating cleansers.
  • Peptide-rich moisturizers.
  • Mineral sunscreen.

Avoid:

  • Retinol and retinoids (for at least 5–7 days).
  • AHAs/BHAs (glycolic, lactic, salicylic acid).
  • Vitamin C serums unless specifically recommended.
  • Fragrance, alcohol-based toners, or exfoliants.

At HerSpace, we can guide you toward the best post-treatment products,  or recommend one of our curated aftercare kits.

What NOT to Do After Microneedling

To protect your skin and optimize healing, here’s what to avoid for the first 48–72 hours:

  • No sun exposure or tanning beds.
  • No intense workouts, saunas, or steam rooms.
  • No alcohol-based skincare or facial wipes.
  • Don’t touch or pick at your skin, even if it flakes.
  • No facial waxing, lasers, or other treatments until cleared by your provider.

Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin. Disrupting the healing process can delay results or lead to irritation.

Signs of a Healthy Recovery (and When to Call Your Provider)

Most patients fully heal from microneedling within 3–7 days. Mild dryness, flaking, or a small breakout can be part of the healing process.

Normal signs of recovery include:

  • Tightness or redness for up to 48 hours.
  • Light flaking or dry patches.
  • Increased sensitivity to products or temperature.

Call your provider if you notice:

  • Redness or swelling beyond Day 3.
  • Yellow discharge, severe breakouts, or discomfort.
  • A rash or signs of an allergic reaction.

At HerSpace, our team is always available to guide you through the process and answer any questions during your recovery.

Enhance Results With These Aftercare Tips

Want to maximize your glow? Support your skin’s natural healing from the inside out:

  • Stay well-hydrated before and after treatment.
  • Get plenty of sleep to allow cellular repair.
  • Consider collagen-supporting supplements like Vitamin C or marine collagen.
  • Continue to avoid sun exposure for at least 1–2 weeks.
  • Follow your provider’s instructions on when to schedule your next session.

Ask about our aftercare serum bundle—curated to nourish and protect freshly treated skin.

Ready for Glowing Results?

Microneedling offers powerful skin renewal—but your aftercare choices determine how beautifully your results unfold.

At HerSpace in Little Silver, NJ, we offer gentle, high-precision microneedling performed by skilled medical providers in a calming, boutique setting. From your first consultation to full recovery, we’re here to support your journey to healthier, more radiant skin.

Book your next treatment or ask about our aftercare kits by contacting us today.

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