Retinol and vitamin C serum should be avoided for at least the first 48 hours after microneedling. Once 2 full days have passed, you might want to gradually add products back into your daily beauty routine instead of doing your usual regimen, especially if you use products that have strong anti-aging formulas.
You will want to refrain from using abrasive skincare products, such as retinol, exfoliants, topical antibiotics and acids, for at least 48 hours before microneedling. It is crucial to avoid harmful UV ray exposure from direct sunlight and tanning beds for the five days before your treatment.
Hyaluronic acid serums should be used post-microneedling. Use this from days 1 to 14 after microneedling to hydrate and replenish the skin. After 1 to 4 days, you can apply hyaluronic acid, toners, or moisturisers with a base of green tea extract, Vitamin E, kiwi oil, and linseed oil to the skin.
Vitamin C pairs wonderfully with nano-needling though, so definitely try to include this ingredient into your routine without any risk of irritation.
AFTER 48-72 HOURS POST TREATMENT: You may start using your regular skin care regimen. Using a retinol product is strongly recommended as it will optimize your results.
Hyaluronic acid serums are the best and most commonly used type for microneedling because of their hydrating properties. Other great alternatives include peptides, ceramides, and EGF. Just make sure to avoid retinoids, Vitamin C, and other serums that contain acids (AHA, BHA, and lactic acid).
Skin that is well-cared for and in good condition will gain the best results. We recommend you have a good skincare routine established at least 2 weeks before commencing a course of micro-needling. Cleansing, toning and moisturizing morning and night with a good sunscreen used daily would be the absolute minimum.
Discoloration caused by skin needling is rare, but can occur if the needle depth is 1.5 mm or deeper, and the procedure is done too frequently. This negligence can cause irritation in the skin which can be one possible cause to post inflammatory hyper-pigmentation.
You MUST NOT pick, scratch or use any exfoliant (gentle exfoliation may be allowed after 3-5 days) as this may damage the new skin and introduce bacteria leading to skin infections. Avoid using any skincare that contains AHA, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid or Retinoic Acid (eg Retin A) for 3-5 days.
Hyaluronic acid can be used following microneedling, and it's even recommended in some cases to help stimulate collagen production after your procedure. If your skin feels dry, it's generally safe to apply coconut oil as an emollient to lock in moisture and hydrate your face after microneedling.
Microneedling can cause bleeding so it may not be suitable for people with clotting or bleeding disorders, or who take medicine to thin their blood. You may want to avoid microneedling if you have conditions that affect your skin, such as eczema or diabetes, or if you have a weakened immune system.
One week following treatment: Most of our patients will notice improvements in their skin just one short week after treatment. Initial results usually include improved skin tone, a reduction in acne visibility, and improved skin texture.
Micro-needling can be safely repeated every 2-4 weeks until you achieve the desired results. For collagen induction, we recommend starting with 3 treatments, but with a minimum separation time of 2 weeks between treatments. For scar reduction, an average of 6 treatments are recommended.
In short, yes, microneedling can make you look younger. As we age, our skin tends to become less tight and firm. When you get older, your body starts to break down collagen faster than it can produce it.
As a general rule of thumb, microneedling treatment can be safely done about once a month or every 4 to 6 weeks.
The short answer is yes; you absolutely can use niacinamide and hyaluronic acid together. In fact, this combination can offer a double-whammy of skin hydration as well as a number of other benefits.
Vitamin E is essential for wound repair after microneedling. Naturally occurring vitamin E is up to 50% more bio available than synthetic products. For this reason it is preferable to use products like green tea oil, with naturally available vitamin E after microneedling.
Conclusion: Microneedling with topical vitamin C is an effective and safe treatment option for epidermal melasma especially in Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I-III.
Although retinol and vitamin C serums are super-effective and expert-favored ingredients, they may be too harsh when it comes to derma-rolling. This is because they're considered "reactive ingredients" and can prove too irritating, especially when paired with needles.
Post-instructions for Microdermabrasion:
Do not use glycolic, alpha hydroxy, beta hydroxy, retinol, or benzoyl peroxide for 48-72 hours following treatment.
Moderate-strength retinol – 0.03% to 0.3%
If you experience skin concerns like uneven skin tone or texture and a visible loss of firmness, try adding a stronger retinol product to your routine such as 0.03% to 0.2% retinol products. Start by using 2-3 nights a week and build usage to see how your skin responds.
First Few Days: Continue gentle cleansing and moisturizing over the next few days. Avoid scrubbing, rubbing, or using exfoliants for 1 week. Apply sunscreen daily and you can use makeup if needed starting the day after treatment.