When should I not do microneedling?

Author: Ludwig Hackett V  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 28, 2025

Talk to your healthcare provider before getting microneedling if you have: Acne or are taking medication for acne. Blood disorders or are on anticoagulants (drugs that prevent blood clots). Cancer and are receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Who is not a good candidate for microneedling?

Pregnant or nursing mothers. Any skin infections. This can be active acne, eczema, rashes, or wounds in the treatment area. Any systemic infections, such as Hepatitis or HIV.

What is not an indication for microneedling?

Microneedling is generally a well-tolerated, safe procedure. Contraindications are limited, but include the following[1][10]: Active acne, especially inflammatory lesions. Active herpes labialis or other localized infection in the treatment area, including warts.

What is a bad result of microneedling?

However, people undergoing the treatment risk experiencing more severe side effects such as bleeding, bruising, peeling, and sometimes skin infections. Other microneedling side effects include: Damage to blood vessels.

What areas to avoid microneedling?

The One Area You May Want to Avoid Microneedling—According to Experts. Experts agree: The midface is a no-go zone.

MY FIRST MICRONEEDLING EXPERIENCE & WHAT TO EXPECT //ACNE SCAR TREATMENT

When should you not do microneedling?

Microneedling can cause bleeding so it may not be suitable for people with clotting or bleeding disorders, or who take medicine to thin their blood. You may want to avoid microneedling if you have conditions that affect your skin, such as eczema or diabetes, or if you have a weakened immune system.

Can microneedling make fine lines worse?

Microneedling is generally considered a safe treatment that should not make conditions worse. In fact, microneedling is actually proven to help improve the appearance of wrinkles by stimulating collagen production. However, if the procedure is not performed properly, it is possible that it could make wrinkles worse.

Why does my face look worse after microneedling?

Sometimes skin can look slightly swollen after microneedling. This is due to the natural and mechanical injury of the treatment. Degree of swelling (if any) will depend on skin sensitivity and the aggressiveness of the treatment.

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.

Does microneedling do more harm than good?

The unfortunate truth is that aside from additional pain and longer healing time, many derma roller users suffer from side effects. These long-term microneedling side effects include infection, scarring, skin pigment changes, and adverse reactions to topical products used during the procedure.

Can you do microneedling wrong?

Improper Technique: Applying excessive pressure or using incorrect needle depth can lead to skin trauma, scarring, and permanent damage. Infection Risks: Poor hygiene practices, unsterile equipment, or microneedling over active lesions increase the chances of bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.

Can you do microneedling under eyes?

Overall, microneedling under eyes is a safe and effective treatment for addressing various skin concerns and can help improve the overall appearance of the eye area.

What is the alternate of microneedling?

These alternatives include: Laser Treatments: Fractional CO2 Laser: This advanced laser technology targets specific areas of concern, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars, by stimulating collagen production and skin cell renewal.

What do dermatologists say about microneedling?

"There are no risks or downtime if microneedling is performed properly," notes Dr. Katz. "When microneedling is not performed properly, there are serious risks like infections, scarring, hyperpigmentation, and bruising."

How long do microneedling results last?

In general, you can expect the results of SkinPen microneedling to last for four to six weeks. The longevity of these results can be attributed to the length of your natural cellular turnover cycle, as well as how long newly produced collagen can last in the skin.

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.

Is microneedling really worth it?

Microneedling can help improve the appearance and texture of your skin. It can minimize stretch marks, scars, wrinkles and other skin concerns. It doesn't carry the risk of skin discoloration, unlike some facial rejuvenation procedures that use heat, light or lasers.

Which at home microneedling is best?

  • Best Overall: Beauty Bio Glopro At Home Microneedling Tool.
  • Best for Beginners: Stacked Skincare Microneedling Tool.
  • Best for Hair Growth: Act & Acre . 25mm Scalp Dermaroller.
  • Best for Dry Skin: Skin Gym Hyaluronic Roller.

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?

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 does your face look like 2 days after microneedling?

The skin will be flushed or red as if you've spent the day in the sun with a mild to moderate sunburn, which may be expected when you leave your appointment. Potenza RF Microneedling-induced redness usually goes away in 48 hours or less. Other side effects, such as peeling and breakouts, may take longer to heal.

Can you go wrong with microneedling?

The risks associated with microneedling are not just superficial; they can potentially cause severe conditions like granulomatous dermatitis and even tumour formation. Therefore, if you're considering microneedling, remember that it is not the only path to healthy, vibrant skin.

Can microneedling improve marionette lines?

When applied to deep marionette lines, microneedling may help generate more collagen to improve the appearance of these deeper facial wrinkles. Depending on the results you're looking to achieve, you'll need to repeat microneedling several times.

Why am I not seeing results with microneedling?

This treatment is all about 'repair' and stimulating collagen. This takes time and occurs deep within the skin, so the effects of Microneedling may not be seen immediately. RF Microneedling causes small wounds (pinpricks) in your skin which stimulates the skin's repair mode.

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