Is it normal for wrinkles to look worse after microneedling?

Author: Guiseppe Orn DDS  |  Last update: Friday, October 10, 2025

Microneedling is generally considered a safe treatment that should not make conditions worse. In fact, microneedling is actually proven to help improve the appearance of wrinkles by stimulating collagen production. However, if the procedure is not performed properly, it is possible that it could make wrinkles worse.

Why does my skin look more wrinkled after microneedling?

You might look older after microneedling because your skin is temporarily inflamed and shedding older layers. This initial phase is crucial for the rejuvenation process, leading to improved texture and reduced wrinkles later.

Does microneedling make skin look worse before better?

Sometimes skin can look slightly swollen after microneedling. This is due to the natural and mechanical injury of the treatment. Degree of swelling (if any) will depend on skin sensitivity and the aggressiveness of the treatment. When swelling does occur, it is subtle and subsides in about three days.

Why does my skin look worse day after microneedling?

Does Microneedling Make Skin Look Worse at First? After the treatment, your skin will be flushed or bright red, similar to a mild sunburn. The redness typically subsides within the next few days. Other aftereffects, such as peeling, flaking, or breakouts, may take slightly longer to resolve.

Can microneedling make age spots worse?

It can however, be worked into a treatment plan for certain causes of pigmentation when the condition is not flaring, at certain times of the year and in selected skin types. When used incorrectly, microneedling can actually make pigmentation worse!

3 Facial Procedures that will actually AGE you and make you look older!

How long does microneedling take to reduce wrinkles?

You can receive treatment every four to six weeks. It can take three treatments for collagen induction to be most effective. If you have never received collagen induction therapy before, you can expect to achieve your ideal aesthetic within four to six months of your first treatment.

Why am I breaking out more after microneedling?

If the skin isn't cleansed properly before and after the procedure, this can also lead to an increase probability of acne post treatment. Microneedling can also cause inflammation in the skin, which can lead to an acne flareup.

How long does microneedling take to look normal?

Expect optimal results after about 4-6 weeks. That's roughly the amount of time that it takes for collagen to develop fully. It also takes about a month for the skin cells to turn over entirely, from start to finish. While you may be looking for immediate results, microneedling results are well worth the wait.

Can you mess up microneedling?

The Common Microneedling Mistakes To Avoid Are:

Using Low Quality Derma Rollers. Applying a serum containing high amounts of fragrance after. Microneedling too often.

How long does skin purge after microneedling?

If you're prone to breakouts and oily skin you may also experience breakouts in lots of lumps like pimples. But these'll go away in 2-3 days. I want to assure you these're also normal and it's just your body purging itself of toxins.

Is microneedling worth it for wrinkles?

Microneedling can help improve the appearance and texture of your skin. It can minimize stretch marks, scars, wrinkles and other skin concerns. It doesn't carry the risk of skin discoloration, unlike some facial rejuvenation procedures that use heat, light or lasers.

How do you know if microneedling is working?

When Will I See Microneedling Results? Thanks to the superior features of the Dermapen 4, you can see a noticeable glow in your skin a few days after your first session. Permanent changes in your skin will be visible after 3–6 prescribed treatments by a DermapenWorld Authorised Treatment Provider.

How to maximize microneedling results?

Microneedling Aftercare Tips
  1. Boosting progress with supplements.
  2. Avoiding intense activities.
  3. Staying out of hot showers and baths.
  4. Letting the skin rest before further treatments.
  5. Not wearing makeup.
  6. Protecting your skin from the sun.
  7. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol.

Does microneedling get rid of forehead wrinkles?

A few sessions of microneedling will strikingly reduce fine lines and deep wrinkles on the forehead. Depending on their condition, most wrinkles on the body may require 4 to 6 microneedling treatments to accomplish the tight, youthful-looking skin.

How long does it take for collagen to rebuild after microneedling?

Results will depend on the severity of the area being treated. The tightened and final results will be seen gradually over 6-9 months which is the time it takes for each individual's body to produce collagen naturally and for the skin to rebuild after injury.

What are the cons of microneedling?

Skin damage is a risk that commonly occurs with microneedling devices. The damage may include bleeding, bruising, redness, tightness, itching and peeling, and these typically go away without any treatment after a few days or weeks.

Why do my lines look worse after microneedling?

There are other possibilities that can lead to increased wrinkling after medical microneedling. In the short term, lines can appear worse for the first few days after a treatment due to transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

How long does skin look worse after microneedling?

It's normal to experience certain side effects after a microneedling procedure. Your skin can be flushed or even bright red when you leave your visit. Within 48 hours, the majority of the redness you experience after microneedling will go away. Peeling, flaking and breakouts may take a little longer.

Is it better to microneedle in the morning or at night?

Myth: sun is the enemy of microneedling!

This is why we'd never recommend microneedling during the day. To keep your skin happy and healthy, always microneedle in the evening – this means your skin has the whole night to restore itself, and you can wake up to sensational skin.

How often do I apply hyaluronic acid after microneedling?

We recommend our Hyaluronic Acid Serum or Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar, available for purchase. It is important to apply every 3 hours for the first 24 hours after the microneedling. These can also be continued twice a day for the first week.

How long does microneedling take to tighten skin?

You will notice an immediate initial tightening. However, it takes around a month to see the final tightening results because that is how long it takes your skin to finish producing all the new collagen.

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.

Why does my face look bad after microneedling?

Common Side Effects of Microneedling

The procedure causes short-term redness, swelling, and skin flaking, often lasting a few days. You should call your doctor immediately if you notice more severe side effects, such as bruising, bleeding, peeling, and infection.

What happens if you overdo microneedling?

Even though microneedling benefits the skin, overdoing it can cause serious risks, including skin irritation, redness, and inflammation, leading to discomfort. Overdoing treatments or not allowing ample time between sessions can lead to scarring and even hyperpigmentation.

What does skin purging look like?

In other words, when you use certain products, your skin is likely to look worse before it looks better. A purge can look like blackheads and whiteheads, and it's likely to appear in the places where you normally break out.

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