You have heard all the buzz around Microneedling, but you are not quite sure what aftercare products you need to use! In this guide, we review the Best Oil To Use After Microneedling, how often do i apply hyaluronic acid after microneedling, what to put on skin after microneedling at home, and when to wash face after microneedling.
The best oil to use after microneedling is something that you’re going find a lot of people have different opinions on. In this article, we review the best oil to use after microneedling and explain why it might be best for your skin. In this guide, we review the Best Oil To Use After Microneedling, how often do i apply hyaluronic acid after microneedling, what to put on skin after microneedling at home, and when to wash face after microneedling.
Best Oil To Use After Microneedling
Microneedling is one of the best ways to give your face a boost in terms of collagen production and overall skin health. The process involves using small needles to puncture your skin, which allows for increased absorption of skin care products and better blood flow. But what are some other tools you can use to help achieve optimal results? Oils! There are several oils that can be used after microneedling that will help your skin recover and improve its appearance even further.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a procedure that involves using a device with tiny needles to puncture the skin. The goal of this process is to stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of your skin.
What Is Microneedling?
Microneedling can be used on its own, but it’s also sometimes done in conjunction with other procedures like laser resurfacing or chemical peels. If you’re thinking about getting microneedled at home, make sure to read up on what kind of equipment you should use–and how often! Keep reading for details on how often you should get microneedled and what type of oil makes for best results afterward!
What’s The Purpose Of Microneedling?
Microneedling is a process that involves using small needles to create controlled micro-injuries on the skin. This can be done by hand or with an electric device, which causes collagen production and increases absorption of topical products applied after the treatment. It’s also been found to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, making it a popular anti-aging treatment option for those who want an alternative to injections or invasive surgeries.
How To Use Microneedling
The first step to using a microneedling pen is to create tiny holes in your skin. This can be done by pressing the pen against your face, then rolling it back and forth until you see blood come up through the holes. You should repeat this process several times over an area of skin (usually about five minutes).
After that, you’ll need to apply an oil or moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid or vitamin C as an active ingredient. Apply it for at least two minutes so that it has time to soak into your pores before washing off with warm water and patting dry with a towel
5 Best Oils To Use After Microneedling
While there are many oils to choose from, these five are the best for your skin after microneedling.
- Babassu oil is derived from babassu palm trees and has high amounts of lauric acid (a type of fatty acid). It can be used as a face moisturizer or mixed with other carrier oils like coconut or jojoba.
- Coconut oil is made up of medium-chain triglycerides that help hydrate the skin while reducing inflammation and redness caused by acne breakouts. It also helps to fight off free radicals that damage healthy cells in your body–which means you’ll have fewer wrinkles later on!
- Jojoba oil is great for those suffering from dry patches on their face because it mimics our own natural sebum production while keeping our pores clear so they don’t clog up easily.”
All of these oils will help your skin recover.
Microneedling is a procedure that uses tiny needles to puncture the skin, causing it to heal and rejuvenate itself. The process can be used to treat scars and wrinkles, as well as other skin conditions like eczema and acne.
how often do i apply hyaluronic acid after microneedling
It can be confusing knowing which serums to use after microneedling, and exactly when to use them to see maximum benefits.
In this article, we explain the science behind the healing process as well as which products you can use after your microneedling treatment and when for the most effective outcome.
The Haemorrhage Phase – 1 to 10 Minutes After Microneedling
1-10 minutes after your microneedling treatment, your skin experiences what is called the ‘Haemorrhage Phase’.
During this phase, your nutrient-rich blood is rushing to reach all of the new microchannels you’ve created. Inflammatory factors like adrenaline, prostaglandin, and serotonin are released to support skin healing and coagulation, otherwise known as clotting, which occurs thanks to the blood’s proteins and platelets.
Products you can use during this phase:
You don’t want to put anything other than tepid water or a medium to high molecular weight hyaluronic acid on the skin.
Our Femvy Hyaluronic Acid Serum is medium weight, making it perfect for both microneedling and everyday use.
You can also use a red LED light to soothe inflammation. It’s best to use a device that doesn’t sit directly on the skin to avoid cross-contamination (our PDT machine is a good example).
The Inflammatory Phase – 1 to 4 Days After Microneedling
During this phase, the platelets in your blood release growth factors and Cytokines. These cells are responsible for our skin’s natural healing and regulating inflammation.
In this phase, neutrophils and Macrophages are also attracted to the microchannels you’ve created in your skin. They are in charge of keeping the area free of infection and destroying any harmful bacteria; they work hard to keep you safe from contamination and other complications.
Our favourite cells of all are also attracted to these microchannels. They are called fibroblasts which are responsible for the production of collagen.
It’s normal to experience mild swelling, flaking, and peeling after microneedling. Keeping the skin hydrated is key during this phase and will help to alleviate any tightness or flaking you may experience.
If you are experiencing discomfort you should always check in with your doctor. Complications are rare, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution and get a professional opinion if you have any concerns.
Products you can use during this phase:
Topically you can apply Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, alcohol-free toners, or moisturisers with a base of green tea extract, kiwi oil, and linseed oil.
For deep hydration that feels beautiful and soothing to the skin, you may opt to use a hyaluronic acid sheet mask. Our Eaoron Hyaluronic Acid Sheet Mask is a great option that comes in a pack of 5 and can be put in the fridge before use for an extra soothing experience.
You can also apply products that contain resveratrol; this is a stable antioxidant found in grapes, berries, peanuts, and dark chocolate.
In all phases following microneedling, apply a healthy layer of broad-spectrum physical SPF is a must. Microneedling increases the skin’s photosensitivity; this can cause unwanted pigmentation if your skin is damaged by the sun after your microneedling treatment when the skin is still healing.
If you are experiencing flaking of the skin, you are able to gently exfoliate however you should steer clear of chemical exfoliants, physical scrubs and grainy creams. Instead, opt for a wet washcloth to buff the dead skin away gently.
The Proliferation and Fibroblastic Phase – Days 4 to 14 After Microneedling
By this phase, the fibroblasts, (i.e. the cells responsible for the production of collagen) are producing growth factors and new skin cells.
Whilst the fibroblasts are busy sending new collagen to your skin; other cells are healing the microchannels, regenerating tissue and repairing the layers of the dermis. Your cells are super busy during this phase, healing your skin and sending new collagen to the surface.
Products you can use during this phase:
Topically, you can apply kiwi oil, linseed oil, hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, copper peptides, azelaic acid, and broad-spectrum sun protection. You can also go back to using cleansers and cleansing oils but skip any harsh exfoliating treatments both physical and chemical.
You can use Vitamin C and Vitamin A, otherwise referred to as retinol or retinoids, during this phase.
But we do recommend waiting until at least day 7 post microneedling to ensure you don’t interrupt all of the healing and repair happening at a cellular level in your skin.
If your retinol is particularly strong, i.e. equal to or higher than 0.25 %, wait until 14 days post microneedling before applying.
Remember to stay out of direct sunlight for as long as possible, ideally until day 7 post microneedling treatment.
The Maturative Phase – Day 14 and Onwards
During this phase, those hard-working, collagen-producing fibroblast cells produce the structures to support your new collagen.
Supporting the collagen with a robust structural network is vital, as it helps your skin maintain a regular cycle of repairing itself and remodelling tissue. This is when you’ll see a serious glow!
Products you can use during this phase:
You can now go back to your entire routine of cleansers, toners, serums, moisturisers, and active ingredients. Continue using broad-spectrum SPF to protect your skin from any sun damage.
If you wish to support your skin nutritionally, you can take vitamins A, C, E along with calcium and omega 3 in the form of a multivitamin. This will ensure your skin has everything it needs from the inside out.
From day 14 onwards, you can resume nano needling treatments which is a non-invasive treatment that involves more shallow penetration into the skin than microneedling.
What Happens if You Don’t Follow the Protocols?
If you don’t follow the post-microneedling protocol listed above, you can potentially cause more damage to your skin.
Using active ingredients like Vitamins A and C too early in the healing process can cause chemical burns or granulomas.
A chemical burn is when your skin comes into contact with an irritant, either an acid or a base, causing an adverse reaction. These irritants can cause a reaction on the skin’s surface or deeper in the body. You can avoid chemical burns by not using your Vitamins A, C, and other active ingredients, too early in the healing process.
A granuloma is a response to chronic inflammation and is caused by infection. Granulomas are essentially a permanent rash, and in the context of microneedling are caused when ingredients enter the skin too early into the healing process. Depending on the way the granuloma forms, it’s possible it can be removed.
Whilst creating granulomas is extremely rare, it is worth noting that by deviating from post microneedling aftercare protocols, you could cause permanent skin damage.
Most reputable sources will recommend using a hyaluronic acid, or HA serum, during and after microneedling. This is because hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring in our bodies already and is less likely to be rejected or trigger an adverse reaction.
what to put on skin after microneedling at home
Microneedling is an extremely beneficial treatment, however, it can be harsh on your skin. Causing hundreds of micro-wounds on purpose means you need to provide your skin with some additional care.
Microneedling and serums help amplify each other’s effects. The treatment boosts the serum’s impact, while serums provide substances that speed up skin rejuvenation or other desired effects.
But what products should you be using and when? Here’s a quick explanation of what to put on skin after microneedling.
Why Use a Serum After Microneedling?
By now you probably know that a serum isn’t just a fancy word for a face cream. It’s a lighter and much more impactful product. Serums contain a higher concentration of powerful ingredients that penetrate the skin deeper than thicker creams would be able to do.
When to Apply the Serum?
On the day of the procedure, especially if you’re getting a professional treatment, just 1 product should be applied right after the treatment and you shouldn’t be doing anything else to your skin for the rest of the day (unless your tech tells you).
Before you leave the salon, your technician will apply everything your skin needs. You should only wash your face gently and without a cleanser after a few hours.
Your tech will prescribe the best serums to use in the days after the treatment. They’ll recommend a specific product or tell you which ingredients to look for (see our suggestions below).
If you’re DIY-ing it, be careful with what you’re using right after microneedling. Not all serums you can buy are suitable for use on broken skin. Double-check if the serum is suitable for this, or if it’s an exclusively topical product.
Applying your go-to serums, no matter how beneficial they normally are, can trigger a skin reaction or irritation as they may contain unsuitable ingredients, or suitable ingredients but in too high concentrations for the compromised skin barrier.
In terms of serums you use in the days to follow, be aware that the microchannels in your skin will close up relatively fast, but regeneration processes will continue internally.
So, begin with gentler, non-irritating ingredients. After about a week or two, you can start reintroducing stronger formulas again. Read on for a timeline with specific ingredients.
What to Put on Skin After Microneedling?
After microneedling, you should opt for ingredients that promote skin regeneration and healing, encourage collagen and elastin production and keep the skin hydrated.
Here’s what you should use at each stage post-microneedling. Quick disclaimer – if you’ve consulted a dermatologist beforehand or are getting a professional treatment, use whatever they prescribe.
Immediately After Microneedling
The following ingredients are fine to put on skin after microneedling immediately (just make sure the rest of the product formula is also fine for this use):
Hyaluronic Acid
When it comes to what to put on skin after microneedling immediately, hyaluronic acid is the best choice.
The hyaluronic acid serum is universally beneficial for all skin types. It’s a component of the connective tissue in your body, and since our body produces it, it’s unlikely this ingredient will cause any reaction.
It helps bind the water, creating a temporary barrier, and keeps the skin moisturized as it heals.
Hyaluronic acid is used in so many skincare products because of its hydrating properties. That means there are many serums out there that work great for microneedling aftercare (just double-check if it’s okay for use on broken skin).
We recommend Cosmetica Skincare’s Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
Peptides
In general, if you’re already using a peptides serum, you can use it immediately after microneedling. If you’re not, postpone use for a few days.
Peptides, or polypeptides, are amino acids that make up collagen. Collagen is too big to be absorbed through the skin, but peptides are not! They sink deep, stimulating the cells to produce more collagen and elastin.
Incorporating peptides into your skincare routine can help improve the skin barrier, reduce wrinkles and make your skin more elastic.
The Complete Skin Solutions Copper Peptide Face Serum is a good choice and the brand claims it’s approved for microneedling on Amazon.
Days 1-7 After Microneedling
From the day after microneedling, you can keep using the serums mentioned above, or switch to a different ingredient. The microchannels will have closed up, but the skin is still sensitive and prone to irritation.
Epidermal Growth Factors (EGF)
EGF is a protein in our skin that is involved in the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. It’s in charge of maintaining the skin healthy, dense, and youthful.
EGF was developed to speed up wound recovery which is why it’s referred to as a healing agent. It stimulates skin growth at the cellular level. And although wrinkles aren’t exactly injuries, because of this property, EGF is often used as an anti-aging ingredient.
If you are looking to incorporate it into your skincare routine or just use it after microneedling sessions, the Icelandic brand BIOEFFECT has one of the best EGF serums.
Ceramides
Ceramides are lipids that make up about half of your skin’s uppermost layer. They help replenish and repair the skin barrier when it’s healing. In other words, ceramides help to seal in moisture and protect the skin from harmful elements.
Products with this ingredient, like Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Serum are a great choice to aid in skin recovery.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a soothing ingredient. It keeps moisture locked in and thus aids the skin’s natural cell turnover process. It also balances oil production and makes your pores look smaller.
It’s a great ingredient overall, but it shouldn’t be used sooner than about 72 hours after microneedling so it wouldn’t disturb the skin’s natural inflammatory process.
We’ve explained the effects of niacinamide after microneedling in this article, plus offered some product suggestions.
when to wash face after microneedling
Microneedling is a popular cosmetic procedure that comes with many beauty benefits. This treatment uses tiny needles to induce your body’s anti-inflammatory response. The objective is to stimulate the cells to reproduce collagen, an essential protein that results in radiant-looking skin. After the microneedling treatments, you will enjoy healthier skin texture and improved blood circulation.
Microneedling therapy is a safe, reliable, and virtually painless process. Many people use this procedure to reverse aging symptoms, repair scarring, and restore an even skin tone. Minimal downtime is expected after the treatment. You may experience mild redness on the targeted skin area for a few days or less. However, the symptoms naturally heal themselves over time.
The healing process after microneedling varies depending on your skin’s response to the procedure. With patience, care, and the proper techniques, you’ll quickly gain relief as your body makes a speedy recovery. Let’s learn about what to do after microneedling treatments:
What to expect after microneedling
After microneedling, the targeted area will need time to heal. It’s normal to feel a sunburn sensation on your skin, which resembles a mild tightness and redness. Your skin requires special care during this recovery process. Stay in an airy location while avoiding the heat, toxins, and abrasive chemicals. These effects should naturally subside several days after the treatment, provided that you don’t aggravate the condition.
Microneedling often leaves the skin dry. Your skin might feel more textured than usual after the treatment. If your body is dehydrated, you might struggle to hydrate the skin. You are recommended to drink up to eight glasses of water daily. When you take sufficient water, your body will produce healthier collagen cells. You will also improve blood circulation.
You can supplement water for beverages like tea and fruit-infused drinks. However, keep them sugar-free and organic. If you like sugary beverages, infuse water with fruits like strawberries, mint, oranges, cucumber slices, and lemon.
What to put on skin after microneedling
Apply a calming moisturizer to cool down the mild tingly sensation on the targeted area. Since your skin might feel dry after microneedling, keep it hydrated with skincare products. Hyaluronic acid serums and moisturizers can restore the skin’s balance. In the following days, introduce collagen-stimulating peptide serums into your skincare routine.
On the second day, you can use a gentle green tea toner after cleansing. From the second to the fifth day after microneedling, you might start noticing scabs on your face. Peeling them can cause your skin to get irritated. Apply a moisturizer and allow them to flake off. If there is still peeling towards the fifth day, use a gentle enzyme peel to relieve the scabs.
Around the sixth day, you can start introducing retinol and vitamin C serums to your skincare routine. You can also apply your anti-aging products from this point.
Sun exposure after microneedling
Sun exposure should be avoided for the first week after the microneedling treatment. Your skin is in a delicate state and will feel more sensitive as a result. If you are not careful, the skin cells are prone to damage from sunburn and scarring.
If you must go outside, apply sunscreens with a high SPF rating. Avoid rubbing the creams roughly and gently pat the products into your skin instead. Even after using sunscreen, stay away from prolonged sun exposure as much as possible. Minimize the amount of time you spend in the sun, taking indoor breaks if possible.
Can I wash my face after microneedling?
Yes, but wait at least four hours to wash your face after microneedling. In the first two days, it’s okay to wash your face with tepid water. You can rinse your face very gently to get out the dried fluids. However, clean your hands thoroughly before touching your face to prevent irritation.
You can wash your face with a gentle cleanser 72 hours after your appointment. Avoid using powdered face washes and loofahs for the next week. Pat your face to dry with a microfibre cloth and dab gently. You may also apply cooling face creams and use antibiotic ointments afterwards.
Can you wear makeup after microneedling?
No, you should avoid wearing makeup after microneedling. Makeup requires using products like toners and scrubs, potentially inflaming the skin. Instead, keep your face bare and moisturized for three days after your appointment.
Other things to avoid include scrubs, masks, saunas, perfumes, heavy creams, and astringent products. You should also exclude exfoliating products for the next week. You don’t have to exfoliate since your skin cells already have sufficient collagen after microneedling.
Can you workout after microneedling?
No, avoid sweaty exercises after the microneedling treatment. Sweat can irritate the targeted area, possibly introducing bacteria to the skin. Instead, try relaxing yoga workouts that won’t cause you to sweat profusely. You can go to the gym after three days. Do not go swimming at least 24 hours after your treatment.