What is the best cream or serum after microneedling?

Author: Prof. Wilfred Adams MD  |  Last update: Monday, June 23, 2025

Best Products for Microneedling Tensage Intensive Serum 40 is frequently recommended post-procedure to help reduce downtime and visibly improve redness and swelling once the skin has re-epithelialized. After procedures, it's important to focus on gentle, nourishing products.

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.

Should you use serum or cream after microneedling?

For the best results, we'd recommend applying your hyaluronic acid serum immediately after microneedling in the evening, and then again the following morning.

What serum to use after microneedling?

Most reputable sources will recommend using a hyaluronic acid, or HA serum, during and after microneedling. This is because hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring in our bodies already and is less likely to be rejected or trigger an adverse reaction.

How do you 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.

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

What happens if I use vitamin C serum after microneedling?

We recommend not using vitamin c serum after microneedling as it is a powerful active ingredient. When you apply vitamin c directly after a micro-needling treatment, it may irritate the skin. This is almost guaranteed for sensitive skin types but is also common with other skin types.

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 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 ointment to use after microneedling?

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

Which serum is best for microneedling?

Hyaluronic acid serums are the best and most commonly used type for microneedling because of their hydrating properties. Other great alternatives include peptides, ceramides, and EGF. Just make sure to avoid retinoids, Vitamin C, and other serums that contain acids (AHA, BHA, and lactic acid).

What is the best face wash after microneedling?

Make sure to use a gentle cleanser free of harsh chemicals so as to not irritate or dehydrate the skin. It is also important to wash your hands before touching your face. The ZO Skin Health Gentle Cleanser is one of the best products to use after microneedling since it is specially formulated for sensitive skin.

When can I put cream on my face after microneedling?

You may use your regular skin care products, once your skin is not irritated, typically after 48 hours. A week after microneedling treatment(s), most patients notice that their skin is smoother and more radiant. Continue with sun protection every day, and reapply every 2 hours while exposed to sunlight.

What products can I not use after microneedling?

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.

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.

What is the best hyaluronic acid serum?

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums
  • The INKEY ListHyaluronic Acid (HA) Hydrating Face Serum. $10.00. 2.9K.
  • Glow RecipePlum Plump™ Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum. $45.00. 2.2K.
  • Dr. Barbara SturmHyaluronic Serum. $325.00. ...
  • SkinfixBarrier+ Triple Lipid-Hyaluronate Serum. $50.00. ...
  • FaceGymHydro-Bound Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide Serum. $80.00.

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.

What is the best numbing cream for microneedling?

Lidocaine, Prilocaine & Epinephrine Numbing Cream

This combination is widely regarded as the best numbing cream for microneedling, laser treatments, and other cosmetic procedures like injectables. Numbing lasts up to 3-4 hours after removal.

Should you microneedle your neck?

There are a few areas on the body where microneedling is especially beneficial, and the neck is one of them. The skin on the neck is thin and delicate, making it more prone to wrinkles, sun damage, and other signs of aging.

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 to maximize results of microneedling?

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.

Should you apply anything after 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 best serum for microneedling?

Top Serum Ingredients for At-home Microneedling
  • Hyaluronic Acid.
  • Peptides.
  • Ceramides.
  • Growth Factors (e.g., EGF)
  • Niacinamide.
  • Antioxidants (e.g., Vitamin C)
  • Snail Mucin.
  • Mushroom Extracts.

What cancels out vitamin C serum?

In other cases, mixing can destabilize or cancel out the benefits of the antioxidant. Here are some ingredients to never mix with vitamin C: Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Lactic Acid, Malic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Citric Acid, Tartaric Acid.

When can I shower after microneedling?

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.

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