The skin becomes sensitive after micro-needling, and the procedure enhances the effect of all the skincare stuff you use afterward.
Some products increase the skin’s sensitivity and may cause irritation, so You should not use them after micro-needling.
Do not use Alpha or Beta Hydroxy Acid in creams (Vitamin A, Vitamin C with low pH) post-treatment for at least an hour or two. You can only use Vitamin C if your main issue is hyperpigmentation. However, it is not recommended. Avoid any acidic product, as it can make your skin dry and cause irritation.
Apply gentle products for at least a week, and also, it is advised to find products that are suitable for your skin after micro-needling. You can use them after at least three days of the treatment to give you satisfactory results.
What to Put on Skin After Microneedling? Best Products to Use After Microneedling
Now you know about some specific products that should not be used post-treatment, here are some of the best products you would want to apply on your skin after microneedling that suits almost all skin types.
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This face wash is for sensitive skin. It is clinically proven and deeply removes dirt, oil, makeup, and pollutants. Aveeno hydrating cleanser is gentle and has a calming effect hence perfect to use after micro-needling. It reduces redness.
This face wash has natural ingredients such as Chamomile and Nourishing Oat, which help in soothing irritation on the skin. It is a soap-free, fragrance-free, non-irritating product that will be best to use after the treatment.
How to Use? Wet your face and pour the face wash on your hand. Work it on your face until it turns lathery, massage, rinse and pat it dry.
Using this serum after every time you microneedle will help you get more glowing and healthier skin. Why? Because this antioxidant serum reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
Enriched with hyaluronic acid, it also enhances skin elasticity, reduces tan so that you get an even skin tone, and enhances your complexion.
It hydrates your skin and gives you glowing skin with better skin texture. Use this serum on damp skin to get better results. The serum helps soften fine lines and fade acne scars, making them look youthful and beautiful.
This moisturizer is a water cream and is oil-free; it hydrates your skin without making it greasy. Its unique water-burst formula helps your skin look flawless and without pores. It is a clinically tested non-irritating cream, making it one of the best products to use after microneedling.
Tatcha The Water Cream contains Japanese ingredients that make your skin look healthier. It is gentle and cool on the skin. It comes in a cute blue bottle, and the consumers are not regretting spending on it.
How to Use? Scoop the cream with the spoon provided. Massage it on your face and neck in an upward direction. Apply it every day in the morning as well as at night for the best results.
This day cream is the best product to use after microneedling because it has SPF 30 sunscreen, and it helps your skin look radiant. It contains four types of ceramide, which improve the quality of your skin. The ingredients help in reducing fine lines by relaxing your skin. It makes you look younger and makes your skin firmer.
The users of this day cream adore the product, and you would too since you wouldn’t need to apply sunscreen with this cream! It is a trusted brand that has been around for as long as we know and never fails to amuse its users.
How to Use? Apply every day on your cleansed face before going out in the sun and using ceramide capsules.
This tinted sunscreen suits every skin tone and type. It is also water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, giving you a glowing skin tone. It also increases the skin’s resistance to the UV heat of the sun.
Though tinted, it blends perfectly with your skin to make it look flawless and has a transparent texture. It has SPF-50 and is also chemical-less.
So when you want to go outside for work after the microneedling procedure, this sunscreen is for you as it will make your skin look flawless as well as protect it from the sun. Most of the users of this product have recommended this cream and are loving it.
How to Use? Shake well before using it. Apply it 15 minutes before going out in the sunlight and 40 minutes after swimming, sweating, towel drying. Consult a doctor before using it on children.
It is a clinically tested product that soothes your skin and softens it. It is beneficial in making your skin less sensitive and provides antioxidant protection. The key ingredient is Thermal Spring Water, which makes the skin look flawless and is also a cure for many skin problems.
It calms the burning, irritating, or skin that stings. Not only that, children and infants can also use it. Don’t take it as just a spray of water; wait for the magic it does to your skin! The thermal spring water technology never fails to satisfy us by giving our skin the best results and protecting and curing it of various conditions.
What is RF microneedling?
RF microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that helps to refresh the skin. During the procedure, multiple needles will make micro-injuries to the surface of the skin. The punctures made by the needles help trigger your natural production of collagen and elastin. Collagen is responsible for plumping your skin and giving it elasticity. Elastin allows the skin to stretch and move back into place. Both of these can help minimize stretch marks, scars, and pores. The treatment is often performed in conjunction with others, such as vitamin serums or platelet-rich plasma. If you choose to add another therapy, the micro-injuries will allow the treatment to fully penetrate the skin. The treatment is customizable to fit your specific needs.
What to expect from RF microneedling
The procedure is performed in 30 – 60 minutes. A numbing cream or local anesthesia is available upon request, but patients usually report little to no pain or discomfort. The treated area will be cleaned before the DermaFrac™ handpiece is passed over the skin. After the microneedling is done, another treatment, like a serum, can be applied so the ingredients can soak deeply into the skin. Finally, a moisturizer and UV protection will be massaged into the skin. Although results from RF microneedling are noticeable, it may not be as pronounced as more invasive procedures, such as plastic surgery. To learn more about RF microneedling, contact our team at About Face & Body Medical Spa in Katy, TX today.
After the Procedure
The side effects of RF microneedling are minimal, but you still need to know what to expect after your appointment. There can be some temporary redness and discomfort. While you might want to cover the redness with makeup, it is important to wait until you get the okay from our team. There is a risk of infection when you use makeup, including tinted moisturizer or sunscreen, too soon after treatment. It usually takes between 2 – 3 days before your skin is prepared for makeup. Our team can give you a full set of detailed instructions before you leave. Results should be visible within a few days but will continue to develop as your skin produces collagen and elastin.

Can I Wear Tinted Moisturizer After Microneedling
Microneedling has become one of the most popular in-and-out procedures thanks to its ability to effectively tackle a wide range of skin concerns—from signs of aging to acne scars. It’s minimally invasive, takes only a matter of minutes, and often requires minimal downtime. Best of all, its effects are lasting. “Microneedling helps stimulate collagen and elastin production, so it can be great for overall facial rejuvenation, scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, and reducing pore size,” explains dermatologist Dr. Amanda Doyle.
However, she adds a caveat: “The treatment of the skin afterward determines the healing and, ultimately, the result.” This means following a guided skincare plan and instructions to a T to ensure you get the best possible outcome while avoiding certain products and ingredients (as well as the sun) that could interrupt the skin’s natural healing process and even lead to infection.
To better understand the dos and don’ts of proper microneedling aftercare, we assembled a team of top dermatologists and plastic surgeons to help navigate the first seven days of post-procedure care. Here, you’ll find what to use, what to avoid, whether it’s safe to wash your face after microneedling, and what’s happening with your skin during this crucial time period.
Just a quick note before we dive in: although the advice you’re about to read comes from doctors who are specialists in their field, it’s not meant to override any instruction your own doctor has given you regarding post-microneedling aftercare. If you have questions about certain ingredients or feel your healing process isn’t going according to plan, consult your doctor or practitioner.
Day 0
On the day of your microneedling procedure, Dr. Ramanadham says it’s common for skin to feel dry and tight, and you may even experience a mild burning sensation. “Your skin will have small openings after the microneedling is done, so you need to minimize touching your face and avoid applying your typical skincare routine to avoid irritation and infection,” Dr. Doyle adds.
Tip: Frequent protective mask wearers: it may be best to schedule your microneedling treatment for a time when you can go mask-free for a few days, as Dr. Ramanadham pointed out that the moist, dirty environment that comes with prolonged mask use could be harmful for freshly-microneedled skin.
Dr. Doyle recommends this rich, super gentle cleanser because it whisks away any dirt and debris from skin while protecting its delicate moisture barrier.
Dr. Ramanadham says a rich, hydrating ointment like Aquaphor can be used in the first few days to provide a protective barrier on skin to help aid the healing process.
This advanced moisturizing cream from ZO Skin Health may be a splurge, but it’s loaded with soothing colloidal oatmeal and antioxidants to protect skin and help calm the appearance of redness and irritation.
Day 1
Dr. Engelman says that skin will appear red or pink, resembling a moderate sunburn. You may also see scratches, bruising, or slight swelling and the skin could feel dry and tight. At this point, “Skin will be actively healing,” Dr. Doyle says, “so you’ll want to continue the original gentle skincare for the first three to five days.”
Day 3
By the third day, most of the after-effects have calmed down, but there are still a few variables to consider. Dr. Doyle says redness, sensitivity, and swelling should all be greatly reduced, however, some sensitivity may linger, depending on how aggressive the treatment was. Dr. Ramanadham adds that at this point, many people also experience a roughness or dryness to their skin that makes it feel like sandpaper. Finally, Dr. Engelman explains that peeling is also normal at this stage, as well as the formation of milia or even a mild breakout.
Day 5
By day 5, Dr. Doyle says the channels in your skin that were created by the microneedling have sealed up, and most of the redness, flakiness and sensitivity will have subsided by this point. However, Dr. Engelman says a small number of patients experience more peeling by the fifth day, due to increased cell turnover.
This lightweight hydrating serum is packed with hyaluronic acid to deeply penetrate skin and deliver hours of quenching hydration. It’s ideal for helping to top up moisture levels as your skin heals post-procedure.
Dr. Engelman loves this tinted SPF from GloSkin because it provides a touch of light moisture with a glowy tint to help even out redness, thanks to mineral pigments, while its SPF 30 shields skin from the sun’s rays.
Day 7
By day seven, Dr. Doyle says that skin should be completely healed, and some people even begin to see a noticeable difference in their skin, namely an improvement in fine lines and wrinkles as well as overall texture. Dr. Ramanadham adds that collagen is still being produced and remodeled over the following weeks, so you can expect even more improvement.
can i wear concealer after microneedling
When you leave the clinic after your microneedling treatment, one of the first things you will want to know is when you can wear makeup again. Post-treatment, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to ensure optimal healing. In this post, we will discuss when you can resume wearing makeup after microneedling and how to care for your skin during the healing process!

1. What is microneedling and how does it work?
Microneedling is a minimally-invasive cosmetic procedure that is used to improve the appearance of the skin. During the treatment, tiny needles are used to create microscopic wounds in the skin. This triggers the body’s natural healing response, which leads to the production of new collagen and elastin. The result is smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin.
Microneedling can be used to treat a variety of concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, stretch marks, and more.
2. How long should I wait before applying makeup after a microneedling treatment session?
The length of time you should wait before applying makeup will depend on your individual skin type and how well it tolerates the treatment. For most people, it is recommended to wait 24-48 hours before applying makeup. This will give your skin time to heal and reduce the risk of infection.
If you have sensitive skin, you may want to wait longer before applying makeup. It is important to listen to your skin and give it the time it needs to heal.
Applying makeup too soon after a microneedling treatment can also lead to irritation and inflammation. If you do decide to apply makeup, be sure to use gentle products that are non-irritating and free of fragrances, dyes, and other harsh ingredients.
When it comes to microneedling, it is always best to err on the side of caution. If you are unsure about when to apply makeup, be sure to consult with your dermatologist or skincare professional.
3. What are the best types of makeup to use after a microneedling treatment session has been completed?
When choosing makeup to use after a microneedling treatment, it is important to select products that are non-comedogenic and will not clog your pores. Look for products that are labeled “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free.” These products will help to keep your skin clean and clear while it heals.
It is also important to choose makeup that is gentle and will not irritate your skin. Opt for products that are fragrance-free and free of harsh chemicals.
Some of the best types of makeup to use after microneedling include:
– Foundation: Choose a light, oil-free foundation that will not clog your pores.
– Concealer: Look for a non-comedogenic concealer that will help to cover up any blemishes or redness.
– Powder: A light, oil-free powder can be used to set your makeup and help control shine.
– Blush: A gentle, non-irritating blush will add a pop of color to your cheeks.
– Eyeshadow: Choose an eyeshadow that is non-comedogenic and will not irritate your skin.
– Mascara: A gentle, non-irritating mascara will help to enhance your eyes.
4. Are there any other tips that should be followed when it comes to wearing makeup after a microneedling treatment session has been completed?
In addition to choosing the right products, there are a few other tips you should follow when it comes to wearing makeup after a microneedling treatment:
– Avoid touching your face: Touching your face can lead to irritation and inflammation. If you must touch your face, be sure to wash your hands first.
– Be gentle: When applying makeup, be sure to use gentle strokes. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing your skin, as this can lead to irritation.
– Don’t forget sunscreen: It is important to wear sunscreen when you are outdoors, even if you are wearing makeup. Be sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
tinted sunscreen after microneedling
When you’re having skin texture issues, makeup application can be tricky. Some skin conditions can cause makeup to sit heavily on the face, or cause makeup to enhance flaws rather than mask them. Luckily, the experts at Southwest Michigan Plastic and Hand Surgery in Portage, MI know that one of the most effective treatments for uneven texture is microneedling.
How Soon Can I Wear Makeup After Microneedling?
If you’re using this treatment as a way to correct your skin texture so makeup application will be easier and look better, it makes sense if one of your first questions is how soon you can wear makeup after your treatment. Many patients are surprised to learn that they will need to wait at least 48 to 72 hours before any makeup products can be applied to the skin.
This temporary ban on makeup even applies to a tinted moisturizer or tinted sunscreen. While your skin must remain hydrated after your treatment, it’s not advisable to use any products made from pigmented minerals for the sake of not irritating your skin. However, unlike traditional makeup, you can use a tinted moisturizer or sunscreen within 24 hours after your treatment.

Why This Time Frame?
Foundation makeup is an excellent choice to correct pigmentation concerns about the natural appearance of your skin, but the way makeup is formulated makes it a less than ideal option after microneedle treatments. Most makeup is made from an oil base or uses minerals that block pores and potentially interfere with natural skin shedding, both of which can make it more difficult for your skin to recover after this treatment.
It’s important to wait before the application of makeup products so that your skin has a chance to breathe and start recovering from the micro-injuries caused by the treatment. After 24 hours, your skin will be in a better state to handle the chemicals used in tinted products; after 48 to 72 hours, the top layer of your skin will be healed enough that regular makeup application won’t pose any potential problems for recovery.
What Can You Put on Your Face After Microneedling?
If you can’t wear makeup after a microneedling treatment, then what can you put on your skin? For the first one to three days after your treatment, the majority of your skincare routine needs to be focused on promoting skin health, maintaining skin moisture, and protecting your skin during this crucial and highly vulnerable period. The good news is that you have several options for products you can safely use on your skin, which include:
Sunscreen
You must use sunscreen at all times, but especially after microneedle treatments for about two weeks. While you can’t use sunscreen for the first 24 hours after your treatment for the same reason you shouldn’t use other mineral-based products, you should be using sunscreen the day after your treatment.
Ideally, the sunscreen you use should be graded SPF 30 or greater. For those who have fair or sensitive skin, stronger sunscreen may be advisable; you may also want stronger sunscreen during the spring and summer months when the risk of sun exposure is greatest. For patients with acne-prone skin or sensitive skin, you should always opt for non-comedogenic sunscreen.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is an incredibly useful natural skincare ingredient that has been used for thousands of years. While aloe vera is most commonly known to help your skin heal after burns, the healing properties of aloe vera are also useful for treating abrasions, dryness, and uneven skin tone. In fact, aloe vera is one of the best products to use to protect the natural function of your skin barrier. Using aloe after your treatment can help your skin heal faster and reduce any redness or irritation following your appointment.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a powerful emollient that can help maintain the moisture balance in the skin, which is your top priority after your treatment. Natural or organic coconut oil applied to the skin two to three times a day can help your skin stay hydrated and make it easier for your skin to recover. Using coconut oil may even be a preferable option if you have sensitive skin that is highly reactive to skincare ingredients normally found in over-the-counter moisturizers.
Moisturizers
Speaking of moisturizers, applying moisturizer throughout the day after your treatment will keep your skin supple and soft after your treatment. General daily moisturizers tend to combine the kind of ingredients that support skin health. However, be careful to check all of the ingredients in your favorite moisturizer; if you have one that uses Vitamin C or retinoids, you will need to switch to a moisturizer without these ingredients during your recovery period.
Hyaluronic Acid
While you will be instructed to stay away from most acid-based skincare ingredients during your aftercare, there is one acid that you may want to stock up on. Hyaluronic acid is a natural acid found in the skin that is responsible for retaining skin moisture. Since hyaluronic acid can carry many times its own weight in water, it’s an important ingredient to use either as a serum or in your moisturizer.
Even more importantly, hyaluronic acid is also friendly to collagen production – in fact, studies indicate that collagen production is more sustainable in the presence of hyaluronic acid. As microneedle treatments are also called collagen induction therapy, it can be helpful to support your collagen production with hyaluronic acid.
Hydrocortisone Cream
Some patients also like to use hydrocortisone cream, which can help soothe irritation and encourage natural healing. Hydrocortisone cream is best at 1%, which is strong enough to support your skin’s regeneration, minimize irritation, and reduce the risk of itching, peeling, or redness after your treatment. You can find hydrocortisone cream at your local pharmacy.
Mild Cleansers
It’s also important to note that your normal cleanser might be too harsh for your skin for the first one to three days of your appointment. Patients should ideally use mild cleansers that don’t contain harsh chemicals, such as sulfates, or certain ingredients like acids. The best mild cleansers to use are oil-based, as they will not strip your skin any further or cause additional dryness. It’s also important to not use exfoliating cleansers or scrubs during this time.
Other Microneedling Aftercare FAQs
1. What Should You Not Put on Your Face After Microneedling?
Other than makeup, is there anything else you should avoid putting on your skin after treatment? It turns out there are quite a few products and ingredients you should steer clear of until your skin is recovered, while is usually within 7 to 10 days of your treatment. The list of skincare products to avoid after this treatment consists mostly of skin actives.
Why You Need to Avoid Skin Actives
Skin actives are ingredients that are used to specifically target certain concerns on the skin. For example, Retinol is used for age-related concerns, while glycolic acid may be used to manage acne, and Vitamin C is used to manage sun damage.
However, most skin actives are based on acids, and the primary purpose of acids is to further strip and exfoliate your skin for more rapid skin cell turnover. Since microneedle treatments are already causing skin cell turnover, adding acid products will only prolong your recovery time – and potentially damage your skin.
2. How Long Will Your Skin Need To Recover?
Most people will require about 7 to 10 days for the skin to be mostly recovered, with those who have mature skin requiring about fourteen days for a full recovery. Your skin requires this much time to shed dead skin cells, correct skin redness and tightness after treatment, and be less vulnerable to harsher chemicals and ingredients.
what happens if i wear makeup after microneedling
While microneedling might appear to be an abrasive skincare experience, it produces impressive results as it aids in the skin’s natural production of collagen and regenerates skin tissue. The results are smoother, firmer skin. The process, as well as the immediate side effects, are not ideal for many people, especially for those who like to wear makeup or have sensitive skin.
Despite these facts, many still attest to its effectiveness in completely regenerating their skin, with some saying that it outperforms all other skincare options, making it well worth the downtime.
If you’re concerned with aftercare and the application of makeup after microneedling sessions, this article will provide you with all the information you need including what to expect after a treatment, how soon after the treatment you can begin wearing makeup again, and what kind of makeup will work best with your new skin.
Continue reading below to learn all you need to know about applying makeup after a microneedling procedure and how Skin Deep Med Spa Boston can provide you with a quick and easy approach to revitalize your skin.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that treats skin issues through the stimulation of collagen production. Also known as collagen induction therapy, microneedling can help patients reduce the appearance of acne scars, stretch marks, fine lines, wrinkles and more. Skin cells are stimulated and turned over faster, producing more collagen, a vital protein in keeping the skin healthy, firm, and smooth, throughout microneedling treatments and the months following.
The premise behind microneedling is that, in piercing the top layers of the demis, we create a “controlled injury,” prompting the skin to respond by producing new, collagen-rich tissue to replace the wounded skin cells.
These small needle wounds self-heal in the days following each session through this process and the enhanced supply of collagen and elastin. The depth of needle penetration can be adjusted according to the condition and thickness of the skin, as well as the treatment plan and number of sessions being performed. The depth of the needle also affects the depth of the wound and the skin’s response to the injury.
A professional microneedling treatment lasts between 40 and 60 minutes in total including numbing time.
After the treatment is finished, our skincare experts administer a specific set of serums, creams, and SPF to the treated areas to help the skin recover.
Following the session, most patients notice that their skin feels tighter and rougher for a few days. Rest assured that your overall skin tone will be brighter, more even in texture, and your pores will shrink in size considerably after some well-spent recovery time.
Your Skin Condition After Microneedling
When considering microneedling therapy, keep in mind that the body responds to these micro-injuries by gradually healing the skin. Your skin will likely be sensitive in the 24-72 hours after the procedure. Irritation, bleeding, and redness are among the expected side effects and your skin and pores alike are raw and open to absorption.
After the procedure, it is important to keep the skin clean and protected from the environment as it is more susceptible to infection and absorbing bacteria into its fresh micro-wounds. The skin will be continuously reproducing fresh skin tissue and beginning the process of rebuilding in the days following treatment. This can ultimately lead to breakouts and other issues if the skin is not cared for correctly while still in the healing process.
Our skincare experts recommend only using prescribed skincare products that are given out with each session, changing any dirty and used pillowcases, bedding, and towels while the skin is open to the elements, and avoiding direct sun exposure for at least 24 hours post session.
The body’s wound healing mechanism works to heal these micro-injuries as soon as they appear within the skin tissue, but it will take time for them to fully dissipate. This means that collagen synthesis and cellular turnover are enhanced both immediately following the treatment, and the period afterwards. Although you may see some immediate improvements, full microneedling results may take four to six weeks to appear, as cellular turnover is heightened throughout the duration of this time.
How Long After Microneedling Can I Wear Makeup Again?
You might be curious about the microneedling procedure’s aftercare and when you can resume your regular skincare and makeup routine. It’s self-evident that everyone’s skin is unique. Similarly, everyone’s skin healing time differs from others because it is influenced by their polygenic features.
Typically, you should not wear makeup for at least 24 hours following the procedure because it may cause further irritation, allergies, inflammation, and redness. Because your skin will be raw and red after microneedling, concealing it with foundation, concealer, or powder can be tempting. This, on the other hand, will simply slow down the healing process and obstruct the skin’s ability to recover while blocking pores with oil and makeup.
Using any cosmetics or skincare products on your skin, besides those recommended by dermatologists and skincare professionals, may hinder it from responding adequately to the therapy. The skin barrier is still recovering, and, as a result, you should refrain from wearing makeup for at least three days after each session. After three days, your skin will be suitable for makeup application and your normal skincare regimen and routine.
Makeup can still be worn in regions that haven’t been touched by microneedling. The use of lipstick, eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara, for example, would not affect results. Use caution when removing makeup however, as the skin will likely still be sensitive to touching and rubbing.

Choosing Makeup After Microneedling
Even after your skin has healed from the microneedling treatment, it is still best to apply makeup products that are hypoallergenic and gentle. Before you apply makeup, you should use a good moisturizer, specifically one with SPF. Before moving on to the following stage, make sure the moisturizer has completely penetrated the skin. You can also use an all-natural spray with mild ingredients to soothe, prep, and hydrate skin.
The next step is to select a light and breathable makeup foundation that provides adequate coverage. If you don’t want to use powder on your face, you can use a mineral liquid foundation.
In general, but specifically after a microneedling session, all-natural, organic, paraben-free, and chemical-free cosmetics are the best option for optimal skin health.
Make sure your cosmetics are pure mineral, not just mineral-based, as they could contain elements like talc or preservatives, which aren’t ideal for microneedling aftercare. Without oils, additives, preservatives, or scents, a healthy mineral foundation can cover your skin precisely and won’t irritate delicate skin.