Why did my microneedling hurt so bad?

Author: Haskell Nikolaus  |  Last update: Monday, December 29, 2025

Essentially, some people are more sensitive to pain than others. For individuals with a lower pain tolerance, the sensation caused by the microneedling process may feel more intense. However, many describe it as a feeling of light sandpaper being moved across the skin.

How long should microneedling hurt?

Microneedling is an outpatient procedure, so you can go home once it's done. Your skin might be red and swollen for up to five days. An ice pack can help reduce irritation and discomfort. Most people can wear makeup the day after the procedure, but you should stay out of the sun until your skin heals.

What are the symptoms of bad microneedling?

Any type of redness, bruising, inflammation that doesn't go away. If you have any signs of infection, any signs of an allergic reaction, if your skin is really painful. for a long period of time, you're getting emerging discoloration of the skin. So contact your clinician. Don't just post on social media.

What happens if microneedling is done incorrectly?

If you're considering this treatment, thorough research is essential—but one thing is sure: microneedling should never be attempted at home. When done incorrectly, the potential side effects can be severe, ranging from scarring, pockmarks, and infections to enlarged pores, track marks, and premature ageing.

Is it normal for your face to hurt after microneedling?

Microneedling carries some risk, as do any cosmetic treatments. Minor skin discomfort is the most prevalent adverse effect following the surgery. For a few days, you may also see a reddish color.

Is MICRONEEDLING Worth the Hype? Doctorly Explains

Why was my microneedling so painful?

Essentially, some people are more sensitive to pain than others. For individuals with a lower pain tolerance, the sensation caused by the microneedling process may feel more intense. However, many describe it as a feeling of light sandpaper being moved across the skin.

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 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.

How hard do you press when microneedling?

Use a light, even pressure. If you have some loose skin, you may need to hold this area taut also.

Can microneedling do more harm than good?

Attempting to improve your scars with microneedling at home may cause more harm than good to your skin. Puncturing too deep can result in rupture of capillaries. Shallow microneedling won't have any effect on improving the scarring problem.

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 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.

How can I make microneedling less painful?

We use topical numbing medication during your microneedling appointment to minimize any pain you may feel during the procedure.

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 hurts more microneedling or laser?

Although a topical numbing agent is used for both microneedling and laser treatment, the majority of patients find the pain associated with microneedling to be much more tolerable.

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 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 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.

How many passes with microneedling on face?

Perform every 3-6 weeks, 6 to 8 passes depending on the number of needles.

Is it better to microneedling fast or slow?

As a general rule, the faster you set the speed on your microneedling pen, the deeper the needle will penetrate your skin. If you're using the pen on your face or other sensitive areas, we recommend using a lower speed - this gives you more precise control of the pen and its movements.

What numbing cream is good for microneedling?

Lidocaine, Prilocaine & Epinephrine Numbing Cream

Each tube contains the active numbing ingredients lidocaine, prilocaine, and epinephrine. Once the anesthetic is applied on clean and dry skin it can provide effective anesthesia for microneedling as early as 15 minutes after application.

How long does purging last 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.

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.

What happens if I take ibuprofen after microneedling?

In the week following your microneedling treatment session, avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Inflammation is a crucial part of the skin healing process and taking NSAIDs will slow the rate at which your skin heals.

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