What to Put on Skin After Microneedling at Home
Microneedling, the popular skincare procedure that utilizes tiny needles to create micro-injuries and boost collagen production, has seen a surge in at-home treatments. When performed correctly, the results can be truly transformative. However, proper aftercare is pivotal. If you’re wondering, “What to put on skin after microneedling at home?”, this guide is for you.
Microneedling, sometimes referred to as collagen induction therapy, stimulates the skin’s natural healing response. As its popularity grows, many are attempting this procedure at home. To ensure optimal results and to sidestep potential complications, post-microneedling care is paramount.
The Immediate Aftercare
Microneedling, while beneficial, can temporarily make your skin sensitive, akin to the aftermath of a mild sunburn. To ensure that you maximize the benefits of the treatment and mitigate potential adverse effects, it’s crucial to follow a meticulous aftercare regimen. Let’s delve deeper into the immediate steps to take post-microneedling:
1. Gentle Cleaning:
After microneedling, your skin can be more susceptible to irritants. It’s vital to ensure cleanliness without causing undue irritation.
- Choosing the Right Cleanser: Opt for a cleanser free from alcohol, harsh chemicals, or fragrances, as these can exacerbate skin sensitivity. A hypoallergenic or non-comedogenic cleanser is often a safe choice.
- Technique Matters: When cleaning, use your fingertips in a gentle, circular motion. Avoid scrubbing or using any abrasive tools, like exfoliating brushes.
- Water Temperature: Always use lukewarm water. Hot water can increase inflammation and sensitivity, while cold water might not effectively remove residual products or substances from the skin.
- Drying the Skin: Pat your skin dry with a soft, lint-free towel. Avoid any rubbing or tugging.
2. Ensure No Active Bleeding:
Though microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure, it’s not uncommon to have minor bleeding due to the tiny punctures made in the skin.
- What to Expect: Small, pin-sized bleeds can appear during or immediately after the procedure. This is a typical response and should not be a cause for alarm.
- Managing the Bleeding: If bleeding continues, apply gentle pressure with a clean, damp cloth until it stops. If you notice bleeding persisting beyond the expected pinpricks or if it doesn’t stop after applying pressure, it may be a sign to consult a dermatologist or medical professional.
- Post-Treatment Products: Once sure there’s no active bleeding, apply a soothing serum or moisturizer to the treated area. A product containing hyaluronic acid or peptides can be beneficial, promoting hydration and skin repair.
Always remember, while microneedling at home provides convenience, always ensure you’re well-informed and taking precautions to achieve the best results and ensure skin safety.
Optimal Products to Apply Post-Microneedling
Post-microneedling, the skin’s permeability is heightened. This can be advantageous for some products and problematic for others. Here are the recommended items:
Hydrating Serums
- Hyaluronic Acid: A naturally-occurring molecule, hyaluronic acid holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a top choice for hydration after microneedling2.
Peptide Lotions
- Benefits: Peptides, short chains of amino acids, can boost collagen production and aid in skin repair.
Growth Factor Serums
- Natural Healing Support: These serums, derived from human stem cells, can amplify the skin’s innate healing process.
Stem Cell Serums
- Regeneration & Repair: Touted for their reparative properties, stem cell serums can aid in skin recovery post-microneedling.
What to Avoid After Microneedling at Home
Some products can exacerbate irritation or hinder healing. Be wary of:
Acidic Products
- Vitamin C or Glycolic Acid: While beneficial in a regular routine, their acidic nature can irritate freshly microneedled skin.
Retinoids
- Potential Irritants: Retinoids, a form of Vitamin A, are powerhouse anti-agers, but post-microneedling, they can cause undue irritation. Wait a few days before reintroducing them.
Heavy Makeup
- Clogged Pores & Irritation: Let your skin breathe. Applying makeup can lead to clogged micro-channels and increased risk of breakouts.
The Importance of Sun Protection
The skin is particularly vulnerable to UV damage after microneedling. Thus, diligent sun protection is non-negotiable.
- Broad Spectrum Sunscreen: Opt for SPF 30 or higher, ensuring it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Reapplication: Every 2 hours, or immediately after sweating or swimming.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Especially during peak hours (10 am – 4 pm).
Soothing the Skin After Microneedling
The aftereffects of microneedling can vary among individuals, but it’s not uncommon to experience some redness, swelling, and a sensation similar to a sunburn. To ensure the skin recovers efficiently and comfortably, applying soothing agents can make all the difference. Here are some details on ways to calm the skin post-procedure:
1. Cooling Masks:
A cooling mask can act like a balm on freshly microneedled skin.
- How They Work: Cooling masks are specially designed to reduce skin temperature, which can in turn decrease inflammation and soothe any burning sensations.
- Key Ingredients to Look For: Masks with ingredients such as cucumber extract, chamomile, and green tea can provide added anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
- Usage Tips: Before applying, ensure the mask has been refrigerated or kept in a cool place. Gently place the mask on your face, letting it sit for the recommended duration, usually 15-20 minutes. Remove gently without tugging at the skin.
2. Aloe Vera:
Aloe Vera, often termed the ‘plant of immortality’ by ancient civilizations, has been a trusted remedy for skin concerns for centuries.
- Natural Properties: Aloe vera is packed with enzymes, vitamins A and C, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Its gel-like consistency provides a cooling effect, while its nutrients aid in reducing skin inflammation and promoting healing.
- Application: When using aloe vera post-microneedling, it’s crucial to opt for pure aloe vera gel without any added fragrances or colors. You can either purchase organic aloe vera gel or directly use gel from an aloe vera plant. Gently apply a thin layer over the treated area.
- Additional Benefits: Aloe vera isn’t just a soother. It also moisturizes the skin without making it greasy, making it ideal for those with oily skin. Its antimicrobial properties can also help prevent acne.
Incorporating these soothing remedies post-microneedling can significantly enhance the recovery process, ensuring that the skin remains calm, hydrated, and on its way to showcasing the desired rejuvenated appearance. As always, it’s recommended to do a patch test with any new product or remedy to ensure there’s no adverse reaction, especially on sensitized skin.
Moisturizing and Skin Barrier Repair
Maintaining skin hydration is crucial. Repeated microneedling can compromise the skin barrier, so barrier repair is vital.
- Ceramide-rich creams: These lipids, naturally found in skin, can be replenished with creams to aid in barrier restoration.
- Non-comedogenic moisturizers: Opt for products that hydrate without clogging pores.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
While immediate care is essential, long-term maintenance ensures prolonged benefits.
- Routine Resumption: Typically, one can return to their regular skincare routine within a week post-microneedling.
- Frequency: For optimal results, at-home microneedling can be done every 4-6 weeks, depending on needle length and individual skin concerns.
Risks of Inadequate Aftercare
Neglecting proper post-microneedling care can lead to:
- Infections: Bacteria can infiltrate micro-channels, causing infections.
- Prolonged Redness: Overexposure to the sun or using irritating products can lead to prolonged redness.
- Scarring: Particularly if the skin isn’t kept clean or if deeper needles are used incorrectly.
Conclusion
With microneedling’s promise of rejuvenated skin comes the responsibility of proper aftercare. By knowing exactly what to put on skin after microneedling at home, you empower yourself to achieve radiant results while minimizing risks.
Note: Always consult a dermatologist or skincare professional before attempting microneedling at home.
FAQs for Post Microneedling at Home Care
1. What to do immediately after microneedling at home?
Immediately after microneedling at home:
- Gently clean the treated area with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser.
- Ensure that there’s no active bleeding. Some small pinprick bleeds are normal, but they should stop shortly after the treatment.
- Apply a recommended hydrating serum, such as one containing hyaluronic acid, to soothe and moisturize the skin.
- Avoid direct sun exposure and wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen if you need to go outdoors.
- Refrain from applying makeup or any harsh products on the treated area for at least 24 hours.
2. Is Vaseline good after microneedling?
Yes, Vaseline or petroleum jelly can be applied after microneedling. It acts as an occlusive, creating a barrier that helps in retaining moisture, which aids in the skin’s healing process. However, ensure your skin is clean before application, and use it in moderation to avoid clogging the skin’s micro-channels.
3. What not to use after microneedling?
After microneedling, you should avoid:
- Acidic skincare products, such as those containing Vitamin C or glycolic acid, as they can irritate the skin.
- Retinoids or retinol-based products for a few days post-treatment, as they can further irritate the skin.
- Heavy makeup for at least 24-48 hours, to prevent clogging of the micro-channels.
- Excessive sun exposure without protection, as freshly microneedled skin is particularly sensitive to UV damage.
- Swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater, as these can cause irritation.
- Active skincare ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and certain essential oils, until the skin has fully healed.
