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

Author: Claudine Kuhn  |  Last update: Tuesday, July 1, 2025

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.

When can you resume your normal skincare routine after microneedling?

Answer: Retinol and microneedling I recommend waiting 2 weeks or until all redness and peeling have resolved. Most microneedling procedures have specific post care instructions. Follow those instructions for 2 weeks then resume your regular skin care regimen.

How many days after microneedling can I use moisturizer?

Once the 24 hours have passed, it is wise to use moisturizers on your face as they will help prevent dryness and irritation. It is recommended that you use a hydrating moisturizer after your microneedling treatment because it will retain moisture in your skin and promote healing.

When can I cleanse my skin after microneedling?

Answer: Post-Care with Microneedling Yes, you may wash your face if it's been 8 hours. We usually recommend waiting 6 hours after treatment before washing your face. That allows the channels created to stay open and absorb the product/serum(s) applied before they seal shut.

How long do you purge after microneedling?

Purging after microneedling typically lasts about 3 to 7 days. During this time, dead skin cells and clogged pores are being expelled. As the skin heals and renews, purging should gradually subside, leaving smoother and clearer skin.

Post Microneedling Care - Step-By-Step Instructions From L&P Aesthetics In Palo Alto, CA

How many days after microneedling can I scrub my face?

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.

How long after microneedling can I use serum?

12-48 HOURS AFTER Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face. You may use a light moisturizer, hyaluronic acid serums, sunscreen, and mineral-based makeup. 48-72 HOURS AFTER You may use your regular skin care regimen. Using a retinol product is strongly recommended as it will optimize your results.

Can I use CeraVe after microneedling?

Hydrating Moisturizer: Apply a gentle, hydrating moisturizer. We recommend Vivier LEXXEL Moisturizing Cream, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, or Aquaphor Healing Ointment.

How much time do you need to go down after microneedling?

How long is the typical recovery period after a microneedling treatment? The recovery period for microneedling usually lasts from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on individual skin sensitivity and the intensity of the treatment.

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 thing to put on skin 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.

How soon can you wear makeup after microneedling?

For most people, it is recommended to wait 24-48 hours before applying makeup. This will give your skin time to heal and reduce the risk of infection. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to wait longer before applying makeup. It is important to listen to your skin and give it the time it needs to heal.

How long does it take for skin to fully heal after microneedling?

Microneedling Recovery Timeline

Generally, the initial healing period lasts about 2 to 7 days, during which you may experience redness, sensitivity, and mild swelling. After the initial healing stage, the skin may continue to improve over the following weeks and months as collagen production increases.

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.

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.

Can I do my skincare routine after microneedling?

The skin may feel warm and tighter than usual, typically subsiding within a few hours after treatment. 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.

How soon after microneedling can I use moisturizer?

-Avoid waxing and any other skin care treatment for two weeks following the treatment. -After 2-3 days you can return to regular skin care products or as soon as it is comfortable to do so.

How soon can I use Aquaphor after microneedling?

As you have seen, your face will be red and sensitive for about a day. You will want to moisturize well. For the first day after the treatment, you'll want to use Aquaphor or some other nourishing serum that we will give you.

When can I use vitamin C again after microneedling?

When Can I Use Vitamin C Serum After Microneedling Treatment. If you're one of the unlucky ones that can't use vitamin c with your microneedling treatments, we recommend waiting until at least the following day before using it. If you're super sensitive, then wait 48-72 hours before you start using your vitamin c again ...

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 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.

How long after microneedling can I resume skincare?

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.

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 after microneedling can I use cleanser?

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.

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