How do you reduce inflammation after microneedling?

Author: Dr. Bill Hahn DDS  |  Last update: Monday, September 22, 2025

Apply cold compresses: Gently applying cold compresses can help reduce swelling.

How long does inflammation last after microneedling?

The duration of swelling after RF microneedling can vary from person to person. In general, you can expect mild to moderate swelling almost immediately following the procedure, which may persist for a few days.

How can I speed up healing after microneedling?

Here are five essential tips to help speed up your microneedling healing process and get you back to your glowing self in no time.
  1. Keep Your Skin Hydrated. ...
  2. Protect Your Skin From the Sun. ...
  3. Follow a Gentle Skincare Routine. ...
  4. Avoid Strenuous Activities. ...
  5. Nourish Your Body From Within.

How to reduce swelling after microneedling?

Swelling is typically a short-term response. Use of a cold compress or ice packs will help to relieve the swelling. To avoid further swelling, you may choose to sleep in an upright position the first night after the treatment.

What is the best thing to put on your face after microneedling?

What to Put On Your Skin After Microneedling
  • Avoid harsh scrubs or products.
  • Only clean your skin with a professionally formulated cleanser.
  • Apply targeted skincare serums that will penetrate deeply into your skin.
  • Keep your skin well-hydrated with a gentle moisturizer.
  • Apply medical-grade sun protection.

Microneedling Aftercare - Do's and Don'ts for Best Results

What does your face look like 2 days after microneedling?

Skin that is pink and a bit sandy-looking is common for some clients in days 2 – 4 after the treatment. Just like any time you're kick-starting cell turnover with a treatment or skin exfoliation, your skin will be sensitive to UV rays.

What is the inflammatory response of microneedling?

At the wound edge, when re-epithelialization is arrested, microneedling of periwound skin may serve to induce a mild inflammatory response which may stimulate epithelial migration to occur. In addition, as previously mentioned the microneedling may help to restore the TEPs and electrotaxis of epithelial skin cells.

What is the best way to reduce redness after microneedling?

8 Tips To Reduce Redness
  1. Tip #1: Ask your provider to adjust needle length and speed. ...
  2. Tip #2: Take Acetaminophen. ...
  3. Tip #3: Combine treatments. ...
  4. Tip #4: Avoid wearing makeup. ...
  5. Tip #5: Protect your skin from sun exposure. ...
  6. Tip #6: Skip your gym session for a week. ...
  7. Tip #7: Say no to alcohol. ...
  8. Tip #8: Give the skincare a break.

Is arnica good for microneedling?

You should not apply ice to the treatment area or use it near the treatment area. Ice will impede the natural inflammatory process that your skin needs for healing. For the same reason, you should avoid herbal supplements used to fight inflammation, such as arnica supplements and bromelain (derived from pineapples).

What is the best healing ointment after microneedling?

There is a growing variety of suitable ointments to choose from which include:
  • Vanicream Ointment.
  • CeraVe Healing Ointment.
  • Vaseline.
  • Aquaphor.

How do I know if I have an infection from microneedling?

A sudden reappearance of redness or pain is a sign of infection, and you should notify our office immediately. PERSISTENT REDNESS, ITCHING, AND/OR SWELLING – Itching, redness, and swelling are normal parts of the healing process. These symptoms rarely persist longer than 24 hours.

How to maximize microneedling results?

We'll tell you how you can get the best results from this collagen-boosting therapy.
  1. Be Honest With Your Medical Provider. ...
  2. Go To Your Treatment With Bare Skin. ...
  3. Avoid Other Treatment Procedures or Topical Products Before Microneedling. ...
  4. Do Not Take Anti-Inflammatory and Blood Thinning Medications Before The Procedure.

Why did my microneedling hurt so bad?

Essentially, some people are more sensitive to pain than others. For individuals with a lower pain tolerance, the sensation caused by the microneedling process may feel more intense. However, many describe it as a feeling of light sandpaper being moved across the skin.

How long does it take collagen to rebuild after microneedling?

RF microneedling uses your body to heal itself, which takes time. In general, you can expect peak collagen production to produce results about 3 – 4 weeks after your session, though you may see continued results for up to six weeks.

Can I take anti-inflammatory after microneedling?

Do not take any anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen, Motrin or Advil. These agents will interfere with the natural inflammatory process that is critical and responsible for your skin rejuvenation. Light scabs may form in the treated area and remain for 24 to 48 hours.

How to heal faster after microneedling?

Here are 5 things that you can do to make the most out of your microneedling results:
  1. Avoid Skin Care Products Containing Strong Active Ingredients After the Treatment. ...
  2. Use A Mild Cleanser Or Moisturizer. ...
  3. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure. ...
  4. Keep The Treated Area Clean To Avoid Infection.

What is the average price of a microneedling session?

The average cost of microneedling in the US is about $640 per session, according to over 300 patient experiences on RealSelf. This can vary between $300 to $700, however, depending on: Your location: Prices may be higher in major cities or upscale clinics.

What is the best moisturizer after microneedling?

It is best to stick to gel-based moisturizers that are non-comedogenic and do not cause acne. You can also opt for oil-free options such as those made with vitamin E or other natural ingredients like aloe vera gel which are known for their healing properties.

How do you reduce swelling after micro needling?

Apply cold compresses: Gently applying cold compresses can help reduce swelling.

What is inflammation of the derma?

Dermatitis is a common condition that causes swelling and irritation of the skin. It has many causes and forms and often involves itchy, dry skin or a rash. Or it might cause the skin to blister, ooze, crust or flake.

Can you have a bad reaction to microneedling?

There are a few temporary side effects to be aware of with microneedling. The procedure causes short-term swelling, redness, and skin flaking, which can last for a few days. Most people can return to wearing regular makeup within a day of treatment.

Why do I look older after microneedling?

Why Do I Look Older After Microneedling? You might look older after microneedling because your skin is temporarily inflamed and shedding older layers.

Why is my face still red 5 days after microneedling?

How long your face stays red after microneedling will vary based on a few factors, including your complexion, how sensitive your skin is, and how deeply the microneedling needles penetrate your skin. You may also notice that certain areas of your face are redder and more sensitive than others. This is all normal.

How to fix microneedling damage?

Caring for Your Skin After Microneedling

Focus on barrier repair with hydrating, non-irritating formulas. Avoid active ingredients like Vitamin C and A until your skin barrier fully recovers. It's also vital to be cautious about the products used during and after microneedling.

Previous article
What does a healthy healing tattoo look like?
Next article
What are the cons of ice baths?