Is it OK to moisturize after microneedling?

Author: Lukas Price MD  |  Last update: Thursday, December 4, 2025

It is recommended that you use a hydrating moisturizer after your microneedling treatment because it will retain moisture in your skin and promote healing. However, you should avoid using heavy creams or oils as they may clog pores and cause acne breakouts.

How soon after microneedling can I use moisturizer?

Answer: Post Treatment Microneedling We typically recommend using a moisturizer starting 24 hours after the procedure. You can use hyaluronic acid or even a gentle aquaphor for the area! You will want to avoid exfoliating or acidic creams as the skin can be very sensitive.

What is the best thing to put on skin after microneedling?

Answer: Post Treatment Microneedling We typically recommend using a moisturizer starting 24 hours after the procedure. You can use hyaluronic acid or even a gentle aquaphor for the area! You will want to avoid exfoliating or acidic creams as the skin can be very sensitive.

How do I get the best results after microneedling?

Keep your skin clean and hydrated

After microneedling, your skin will be more sensitive than usual, so it's important to keep it clean and moisturized to avoid any irritation or infection. Use a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water to wash your face twice a day, avoiding any harsh scrubs or exfoliants.

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.

Microneedling Aftercare Do's and Don'ts & Recommended Skincare Ingredients

How to increase the effectiveness of microneedling?

Following a consistent skincare regimen can help to maintain the results of microneedling. A skincare regimen that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing regularly can help to improve the texture and tone of the skin, as well as reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

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.

What is the best moisturizer after microneedling?

What is hyaluronic acid, and why is it a good match for microneedling? Hyaluronic acid is the darling of the skincare world, and for good reason. Best known for its ability to retain 1,000 times its weight in water, this superstar hydrator acts as a humectant, keeping your skin hydrated and moisturised.

How to 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.

What is the immediate aftercare for microneedling?

In the first few days after microneedling, your skin will likely feel irritated. Redness, swelling, and flaking are common during this phase. Don't worry—this is part of the healing process. Keep your skin hydrated with a gentle moisturizer or hyaluronic acid.

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.

How often should I microneedle my face?

Most people need multiple microneedling treatments, usually about 3 weeks to 8 weeks apart. It can take 3 months to 6 months to see results. Afterward, you might need the procedure once a year for maintenance.

Why is my face so tight after microneedling?

Microneedling pricks the skin, creating invisible wounds that trigger healing. In response, your skin will likely feel tight and dry, maybe as if you have a mild sunburn. Because the tiny wounds are fresh, there is a risk of infection.

What product is best after microneedling?

Dr. Ramanadham says a rich, hydrating ointment like Aquaphor can be used in the first few days to provide a protective barrier on skin to help aid the healing process.

How to sleep after microneedling?

Germ-free skin is essential to promote healing, prevent infection, and achieve a healthy glow after microneedling. Always wash your hands before touching your face. Only touch your face when washing it or applying serums and moisturizer. Sleep on your back for the first week or at least 3 days after microneedling.

When can I use my regular moisturizer after microneedling?

Skip harsh skincare products

Avoid harsh chemicals on makeup or skincare products for at least 24 hours after the treatment. Your skin is in a delicate state and can be more sensitive post-microneedling. Thus, using such products may exacerbate the redness and irritation.

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.

What should you not use after microneedling?

Patients should avoid using makeup or skincare products for the first 2 days following microneedling treatment. This includes cleaners, toners, exfoliants. The treated skin requires time to heal and each of the aforementioned products can cause irritation and lead to further damage.

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.

Does microneedling bring out age spots?

As collagen production increases the skin gets plump and thicker, smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. The process of microneedling also breaks up melanin in the skin absorbing it into the body, so it is an effective treatment for age spots.

How can I make my microneedling last longer?

Hydration Is Key:

Microneedling can temporarily deplete skin moisture, leading to dryness. Maintaining proper hydration is paramount for extending your treatment's longevity. A glycerin cleanser's ability to cleanse without stripping the skin's natural moisture is beneficial in this regard.

What are the long term side effects of microneedling?

Despite its many advantages, there are some risks associated with microneedling such as infection, inflammation and discoloration. Long-term effects may include scarring or changes in pigmentation so caution should be taken when undergoing this treatment.

Is microneedling better than Botox?

As stand-alone treatments, these are both fantastic in their own ways. Botox will provide good visual results on the skin, as the area will look and feel smoother – although for firmer, plumper, healthy-looking skin, microneedling wins, hands-down.

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