What happens if I wash my face after microneedling?

Author: Kobe Kuhlman DDS  |  Last update: Friday, July 11, 2025

Why You Should Wait to Wash Your Face After Microneedling? Infection is rarely a concern after undergoing the procedure of microneedling since the holes generated are small and heal rapidly. However, cleaning your face right after treatment, before the healing process begins, increases the risk of infection.

How soon can I wash my face after microneedling?

How Soon Should I Wash My Face After Microneedling? You can rinse your face with lukewarm water 8 hours after your treatment. However, do not apply anything to your skin within 24 hours. You can begin to use a gentle, non-exfoliating cleanser when washing your face 24 hours post-treatment.

How long after microneedling can I shower?

How soon can I shower after microneedling? You should wait 24 hours after your microneedling treatment to shower, as the openings will have closed by then, and there is less of a chance for bacteria to get in. You can wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry with a clean towel 4 hours after your procedure.

How to remove dead skin after microneedling?

You shouldn't wash your skin at all during the first 72 hours. After that, gently exfoliate the skin after 3 – 5 days to remove the flaky dead skin that commonly forms after treatments. Use a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water, and make sure your hand motions are as gentle as possible.

Can I use a cleanser after skin needling?

After the procedure it is recommended that you do not wash your face with any cleansers and only apply a gentle moisturizer, such as CeraVe. Feel free to splash cold water on your skin if it is feeling tight and hot, but only use your hands. No washcloths.

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.

How long does skin 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.

What is the fastest way to heal skin 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 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.

When can I wet my face after microneedling?

As far as washing your face after microneedling goes, you should only use lukewarm water for the first 48 hours. On days two and three, it's safe to cleanse with a gentle, non-exfoliating face wash. Make sure to apply the product using light, circular hand motions, and don't use a facial cleansing brush.

Can I sleep on my side after microneedling?

Can I sleep on my side after microneedling? It's best to sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated for the first night after microneedling. This minimizes the risk of irritation and ensures that your skin stays clean while it begins to heal.

Can I shampoo after microneedling?

It's recommended to wait at least 24-48 hours after the microneedling treatment before washing your hair. When you do wash, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Avoid using harsh shampoos or products with strong fragrances, as these can further irritate the scalp.

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.

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.

Can I wash my face after microneedling?

Within the first 6─8 hours after the treatment, one can wash their skin with clean, lukewarm water, because the active chemicals in the face wash are absorbed directly through the pores, which may occasionally cause further irritation and can also hurt skin if applied too soon after the procedure.

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.

How long does it take to see microneedling results?

Approximately two to four weeks after your Dermapen microneedling treatment, you'll start to see more significant microneedling results. This is when collagen and elastin production ramps up, leading to noticeable skin texture and tone improvements.

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.

When can I go back to normal skincare routine after microneedling?

Sometimes it can take up to 24-48 hours for the discomfort to dissipate. It is important to treat the skin gently for three days after microneedling, then you may resume your normal skincare routine. Blow is our recommendation for the best microneedling aftercare: Keep your skin clean.

Can microneedling cause fat loss?

Privacy Policy/California Privacy Notice. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. What best describes your main concern? Potenza RF (Radiofrequency) Microneedling is focused on skin tightening only and doesn't cause fat loss.

How long does it take for face to look normal after microneedling?

You may notice some improvement of your skin's tone and texture as early as 2-3 weeks after your first session. The maximal effects typically occur after 3 months, when collagen has fully formed. Multiple microneedling treatments have additive effects—they give better results that last longer.

Does microneedling plump your face?

Microneedling is incredibly effective for plumping the skin around pores, giving the appearance they've shrunk. It's how to get smooth skin like a baby.

What are the long term 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.

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