The Dos and Don'ts of Microneedling

Microneedling, known as collagen induction therapy, is an innovative aesthetic treatment that improves skin texture. By creating an inflammatory response with mechanical trauma, the tiny, shallow holes created with the small device increases fibroblast activity, thus encouraging the body to naturally produce more collagen and elastin. Microneedling is a popular aesthetic treatment for adults and can easily be combined with nourishing serums or PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy for optimal results. Here are some simple tips on what to do before and after microneedling treatments, or feel free to contact JEM Medspa, located in Elmhurst and Orland Park, IL, to schedule your appointment today.

What is microneedling?

When your skin care products have become less effective, consider the next step. Microneedling can shrink pores, even out hyperpigmentation, and give your skin that bright, younger-looking appearance. As a minimally invasive skin treatment, microneedling uses several fine-gauge needles to safely create microchannels or tiny holes in the dermis or the second layer of the skin. These micro-injuries encourage the body to produce elastin and collagen naturally, which are essential nutrients for healthy, younger-looking skin. At JEM Medspa, our teams in Orland Park and Elmhurst, IL provide SkinPen® microneedling and will customize each session to achieve your cosmetic goals. It can also be combined with other aesthetic treatments, like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or vitamin serums to enhance results and boost collagen production.

What are the dos and don'ts before and after microneedling?

Microneedling is an effective and safe way to treat skin concerns, such as sun damage, mild skin laxity, acne scars, rough skin texture, and more. The skin care experts at JEM Medspa will help you discover some of the fantastic benefits of collagen induction therapy. Read on to learn some helpful tips on what to do or not do before and after your microneedling procedure.

Do: wait before applying makeup

Microneedling will cause temporary redness. We recommend waiting at least 90 minutes before applying makeup and using a clean brush when you apply it to avoid introducing bacteria to your skin. In some cases, patients opt to forgo makeup for 24 – 48 hours to allow their skin time to breathe during the healing process.

Don't: use topical agents that might increase skin sensitivity

Avoid using exfoliates, retinoids, or topical antibiotics or acids for at least 5 – 7 days prior. Do not take anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen, for at least three days before your microneedling session, as it can interfere with the body's natural inflammatory process that is crucial for this aesthetic treatment. Don't wax, shave, or have an IPL or laser treatment for at least two weeks beforehand, and avoid unprotected sun exposure. Following these guidelines before your procedure will ensure your treatment will go smoothly and help minimize any possible side effects.

Do: wash your face before treatment

You can wash your face before arriving at our office. However, keep it free of any oil, makeup, powder, sunscreen, or lotion. Microneedling treatments typically take about 60 minutes to complete. Afterward, it is essential to take care of your skin for the best results. Apply moisturizer daily, especially from days 2 – 4, as the micro-injuries heal and the skin becomes drier.

Don't: overexpose your skin to the sun

Sun exposure is never good for the skin, as it can cause signs of visible aging and pigmentation issues. Microneedling treatments temporarily increase skin sensitivity so avoid harmful UV rays for optimal results. After the microneedling recovery time is over, continue to wear sunscreen daily to protect your healthy new skin cells.

Do: avoid exercising for 1 –3 days

We understand it isn't easy to take a break from your fitness routine. However, we advise patients to avoid being physically active or engaging in strenuous exercise for a couple of days. Sweating can exasperate swelling and irritation while possibly exposing the skin to bacteria.

Are you considering microneedling?

Contact JEM Medspa to schedule a consultation for more information about what to do before and after microneedling treatments. Our locations in Elmhurst and Orland Park, IL, offer this safe and effective aesthetic treatment to help women and men achieve smoother, more youthful-looking skin. We will create a customized microneedling plan that fits your cosmetic needs.