Why am I purging after microneedling?

Author: Miss Mabelle Bosco II  |  Last update: Saturday, November 22, 2025

Breakouts after microneedling may occur due to skin purging, where clogged pores surface as the skin regenerates. The procedure also opens microchannels in the skin, making it more sensitive to bacteria, leading to temporary breakouts.

Is it normal to purge after microneedling?

Sometimes, the skin can purge after having a microneedling treatment due to the stimulation of your skin during that treatment. Your skin looks completely normal post-treatment from the looks of your photo. Keep it moisturized and protect it from the sun. Best of luck!

Is it normal to break out after microneedling?

A common concern about microneedling is whether it can cause acne breakouts. While the procedure itself does not cause acne, it can temporarily exacerbate existing skin issues. The skin's natural response to the micro-wounds might include inflammation, which can temporarily heighten the appearance of acne.

How long does skin look worse after microneedling?

It's normal to experience certain side effects after a microneedling procedure. Your skin can be flushed or even bright red when you leave your visit. Within 48 hours, the majority of the redness you experience after microneedling will go away. Peeling, flaking and breakouts may take a little longer.

How do you know if microneedling is working?

When Will I See Microneedling Results? Thanks to the superior features of the Dermapen 4, you can see a noticeable glow in your skin a few days after your first session. Permanent changes in your skin will be visible after 3–6 prescribed treatments by a DermapenWorld Authorised Treatment Provider.

Microneedling Aftercare Tips (best results for anti-aging skincare)

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 does it take for collagen to rebuild after microneedling?

Results will depend on the severity of the area being treated. The tightened and final results will be seen gradually over 6-9 months which is the time it takes for each individual's body to produce collagen naturally and for the skin to rebuild after injury.

Why do I look more wrinkled after microneedling?

You might look older after microneedling because your skin is temporarily inflamed and shedding older layers. This initial phase is crucial for the rejuvenation process, leading to improved texture and reduced wrinkles later.

What are the stages of face after microneedling?

Phase I: Inflammation. Microneedling triggers your immune system to disinfect the treatment area, remove debris, increase blood flow and begin to generate new tissue. Phase II: Proliferation. Your treatment area experiences new growth of collagen and elastin, as well as a new network of blood vessels.

What happens if you microneedle too deep?

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.

Am I breaking out or purging?

Appearance. The blemishes caused by purging are usually smaller, come to a head quicker and heal faster. Breakouts, however, can vary widely in appearance, including blackheads, whiteheads, deeper cystic spots or hormonal acne along the jawline. They might heal slowly and can range in size and severity.

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.

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.

Why am I breaking out so much after microneedling?

The needles used during the treatment can cause open punctures will can allow bacteria to enter the skin. This in turn can lead to an acne flareup. If the skin isn't cleansed properly before and after the procedure, this can also lead to an increase probability of acne post treatment.

How long does skin purging last?

How long does purging skin last? It generally lasts around 4 weeks (an average skin cycle length) but it can last up to 8 weeks. If you're still breaking out more than usual after this period of time, consider what else you're using in your routine, as it may not be purging.

What are the symptoms of bad microneedling?

Skin damage is a risk that commonly occurs with microneedling devices. The damage may include bleeding, bruising, redness, tightness, itching and peeling, and these typically go away without any treatment after a few days or weeks.

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.

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 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.

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.

How long does microneedling take to tighten skin?

You will notice an immediate initial tightening. However, it takes around a month to see the final tightening results because that is how long it takes your skin to finish producing all the new collagen.

Why am I not seeing results from microneedling?

As soon as the deepest layers of your skin are penetrated by the needles, “micro-wounds” are created. This triggers your body's wound healing processes to heal your micro wounds immediately. However, the most dramatic results will not be visible until four to six weeks after treatment.

Does skin tighten after microneedling?

While microneedling offers a range of benefits, including improved skin texture, reduced pore size, and lessening the appearance of fine lines and scars, it primarily focuses on the skin's surface. It does promote some degree of skin tightening due to collagen production.

When to 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.

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