Should I do chemical peel or microneedling first?

Author: Israel Nicolas  |  Last update: Monday, August 18, 2025

Combining both techniques will improve the appearance of the skin internally and externally. It is recommended to perform the chemical peel first as this removes all the dead and old layers of skin.

Should you do a chemical peel before or after microneedling?

Hello and thank you for your question. In most cases you should wait two weeks after a chemical peel to have microneedling. However, this time frame can vary based on the strength of the chemical peel. It is possible to have the microneedling before two weeks if the chemical peel is not very strong.

Can you alternate chemical peels and microneedling?

Can you combine micro needling and chemical peel for better results? Yes, you can get these 2 treatments together. The chemical peel sloughs away old, tired, dull skin cells. Microneedling stimulates collagen and elastic production. Combined, they can improve texture, pigmentation, scarring, fine lines and wrinkles.

Is it good to peel after microneedling?

Answer: Don't expect peeling after Microneedling alone. The skin peeling after Microneedling is not to be expected. Some providers do perform light chemical peel as part of the procedure. They call it ``Micropeeling''. Your provider performed Microneedling only.

Why does my skin 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.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MICRONEEDLING & CHEMICAL PEELS | Ask an Educator

What does your face look like 3 days after a chemical peel?

Around the third day, you may start to see the initial signs of peeling. Your skin might appear dry and flaky, and small pieces may begin to shed. This is a normal part of the process as the old skin is being replaced by new skin underneath.

Who is a bad candidate for microneedling?

Certain conditions can make a person a poor candidate. These include pregnancy, recent Accutane use, active acne outbreaks, or specific skin disorders. A history of poor wound healing and skin treatments like radiation and microneedling with PRP injection in the past year also raises red flags for patients.

How often should I do microneedling?

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.

How long after microneedling can I use chemical exfoliant?

Avoid Makeup and Skincare Products

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 many chemical peels do you need to make a difference?

Type and Strength of Chemical Peel

These can often be done in 6-10 treatments for optimal outcomes. Medium-depth peels, typically using trichloroacetic acid (TCA), penetrate more profoundly and may require fewer sessions, often showing significant improvement after 3-5 treatments.

What is the best treatment to combine with microneedling?

4 Best Treatments To Pair With Microneedling
  • Chemical Peel. On its own, Chemical Peels are powerful exfoliating tools, removing the outermost layer of skin to treat texture concerns and trigger cell signaling. ...
  • HydraFacial. ...
  • Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) ...
  • Radiofrequency.

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.

Do chemical peels boost collagen?

Chemical peels don't just lift your spirits. Medium to deep chemical peels not only promote new collagen growth, but also elastin, which is the substance that allows your skin to snap back after it's been stretched.

Should you moisturize before or after a chemical peel?

It is important to moisturize after a chemical peel. The fresh skin is sensitive, and the skin may still be peeling following the treatment.

Should you do a chemical peel or microneedling first?

Combining both techniques will improve the appearance of the skin internally and externally. It is recommended to perform the chemical peel first as this removes all the dead and old layers of skin.

Is microneedling damaging long term?

Any microneedling device has the potential to cause side effects that last a short time or a long time. Skin damage is a risk that commonly occurs with microneedling devices.

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.

What are the worst days of a chemical peel?

After your chemical peel, you will be in recovery for 1-2 weeks, with days 3 and 4 being the worst in terms of peeling.

Why does my face look more wrinkled after a chemical peel?

You might find issues such as how your skin looks worse after a chemical peel, skin discoloration, and wrinkles after the chemical peel. But this may just be a temporary phase that appears after the treatment.

What not to do after chemical peeling?

Your skin is more delicate after a peel, so avoid direct sun exposure, which can lead to even more visible signs of skin aging. If you must be exposed, use a Broad Spectrum physical sunscreen. Avoid strenuous workouts, dry saunas and steam rooms.

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.

How long do you look bad after microneedling?

After Microneedling Treatment

You may notice that your skin is red and swollen for up to three days. During this time, use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer, and if necessary, use 1% hydrocortisone cream.

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.

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