If you are having microneedling done, you can sweat as usual. You should not wipe your face with a towel or wash your face after the procedure; this will remove the natural oils and affect healing. Once your treatment is complete, it is time to hydrate your skin with a well moisturized serum and oil.
In this guide, we find out: Can You Sweat After Microneedling, when to wash face after microneedling, can i exercise 24 hours after microneedling, and can i wear a mask after microneedling.

Can You Sweat After Microneedling
Microneedling is a popular cosmetic treatment that uses tiny needles to create thousands of micro-injuries in the skin. It’s used to treat acne scars, wrinkles, stretch marks and many other conditions. Microneedling has been around for decades but recently it’s gotten more attention due to its popularity with celebrities like Kim Kardashian West and Kylie Jenner. If you’re thinking about getting microneedled at home or by your dermatologist then read on to find out if you can sweat after microneedling…
Yes, You Can Sweat After Microneedling
Sweating after microneedling is a normal reaction. Sweating is your body’s way of releasing heat and toxins from the skin, and it’s a natural process that can help you heal. You should expect to sweat for about an hour or so after getting microneedled, but if you find yourself sweating excessively or experiencing other symptoms like nausea or dizziness, contact your doctor immediately.
How Often Should You Do Microneedling?
The frequency of microneedling sessions will depend on your skin type. If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to do the procedure every 3-4 weeks. For normal and oily types, it can be done every 4-6 weeks. Microneedling is also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT) because it increases collagen production in the skin by creating tiny punctures that stimulate new growth from within your own body’s cells.
Is Microneedling Good for Dark Spots?
Microneedling can help you to reduce the appearance of dark spots. The procedure helps to stimulate the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid in your skin. This will help to improve the texture and tone of your skin, which can make those pesky spots less obvious. Microneedling is also effective at treating sun damage or age spots on hands and face because it allows for deeper penetration than other treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion would allow for
Will My Skin Look Red after Microneedling?
It’s important to know that how much redness you experience after microneedling will depend on the strength of the device you use. If you use a stronger device, you may experience more redness.
The amount of time your skin remains red depends on your skin type and how long it takes for that area to heal. For example, if you have oily or acne-prone skin and are prone to breakouts (like me), then there’s a good chance that your face will stay red for longer than three days because healing takes longer in these types of conditions–the same goes for sensitive-skinned folks!
What do You Use After Microneedling
The next step is to apply a serum that contains hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C and rosehip oil. These ingredients are known to have anti-aging properties that can help maintain the skin’s elasticity and reduce signs of aging.
If you’re looking for an even deeper treatment after microneedling (or just want your pores to shrink), try using glycolic or salicylic acid serums instead! They will exfoliate away dead skin cells while also reducing pore size by opening up clogged pores from within the skin’s surface.
Why Does My Face Look Shiny After Microneedling?
If your face is shiny after microneedling, it could be because of a reaction to the product you’re using. Your skin can be very sensitive after microneedling and may even become red. This is normal and will go away with time.
Your face might also feel dry after microneedling; this too is normal as the skin heals from being punctured by micro-needles in the treatment process.
How Long Does It Take to See Results After Microneedling?
In the office, you’ll notice some immediate results. After a treatment, your skin will be slightly red and feel warm to the touch. This is normal and should go away within 24 hours. You may notice some mild peeling or flaking throughout that first week as well if you have sensitive skin–it’s nothing to worry about!
When it comes time for your follow-up appointment, we’ll discuss what changes have occurred since our last meeting and decide on another course of action if necessary (it won’t always be). Most patients see continued improvement in their skin over time–and there’s no reason why yours shouldn’t be no exception!
What Should You Not Do After Microneedling?
After you’ve had microneedling done, it’s important to avoid doing certain things. These include:
- Retinol products. Retinol is a form of vitamin A that has been shown to increase collagen production and improve skin texture. However, it can irritate the skin after microneedling if you use it too soon after treatment because it increases cell turnover rate and causes inflammation in the skin. Avoid using retinol products for three weeks after your procedure (and always do a patch test on your forearm before applying any new product).
- Microdermabrasion or chemical peels that contain glycolic acid or salicylic acid (both are types of AHAs). These treatments exfoliate the top layers of dead skin cells from your face which makes them incompatible with microdermabrasion treatments since they both encourage exfoliation by breaking down bonds between molecules found within those layers!
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.
can i exercise 24 hours after microneedling
If you’ve had microneedling, you’ve probably been told that you shouldn’t workout afterwards – but do you know why that is, how long to avoid exercise after microneedling and what might happen if you do head off to the gym before you should? That’s what this post aims to answer.
We asked two leading cosmetic experts the rules for working out after microneedling – and got their top tips and best advice to protect your skin and maximise your results.
What is Microneedling?
‘Microneedling is a process where the skin is put under controlled trauma to kick start the body’s natural healing process,’ explains Dr Yalda Jamali, a medical doctor specialising in aesthetic medicine and founder of the Dr Yalda Clinics in Nottingham, Manchester and Leeds.
‘Small punctures to the skin are made using a device containing many small needles. As the needles touch the middle layer of the skin called the dermis, the blood flow to the area is increased, improving overall skin nutrition.
Microneedling also improves the skin cell turnover by boosting collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid production. This encourages skin renewal resulting in brighter and smoother skin.
Microneedling has many benefits; it is the perfect all-round treatment for reducing: acne scarring, stretch marks, surgical scarring, open pores, fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, sun damage and a dull complexion..’
The process, which is also known as collagen induction therapy, can be done alone, or in conjunction with the application of serums or other skin nutrients. It’s not quite the same as mesotherapy which actually injects vitamins and other skin nutrients under the skin – although much of the advice in this piece about when to exercise can also apply to mesotherapy too.
Results will vary depending on your skin type and the skill of your ‘needler’ but in one US trial looking at the effects of microneedling in skin aging, a 23 per cent reduction in the look of fine lines and wrinkles (according to a measure called the Lemperle Grading Scale) was seen after four treatments over four months. Measures of skin laxity and skin texture also improved.
Is Microneedling the Same as Dermaroller?
Not quite. ‘Microneedling is an umbrella term used for the micro-injuries that are created during this procedure. It can either be performed using a dermaroller or, for more accuracy and precision, a clinical needling device. The needling device is a safer and more comfortable option. The device also allows the practitioner to control the depth of the injury for noticeably better end results,’ says Dr Yalda.
Our second expert, Dr Sophie Shotter, an aesthetics specialist, member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine and Medical Director of Illuminate Skin Clinics agrees saying. ‘A dermaroller is a brand of micro needling, and these were the first devices that came to market.
However, I personally choose not to use rollers in my current practice for a few reasons. The most important one is that a roller has needles of just one depth, which limits us to treating you at that one depth all over your face. If you feel your forehead it is far less fleshy than your cheek, and so is ideally treated at a more superficial depth than the plumper areas.
I also personally find that dermarollers are more uncomfortable for patients than the newer pen-type devices.
Microneedling pens are automated and drive the tiny needles into the skin many times per second at the depth you program the device to. It allows for a comfortable treatment which is easier to tailor to the individual face.’
Why Can’t You Exercise After Microneedling?
The first reason is bruising…
”If you exercise post-procedure, you’re going to increase your body temperature and increase your blood flow to the recently treated areas,’ says Dr Shotter. ‘This can increase the risk of swelling and discomfort post-procedure, and in occasional situations even lead to bruising.’
IF you do get bruising, you’ll find some tips in our guide to bruising after fillers that might help you conceal things – or stop things getting worse. But, as we say below, you’ll need to wait 24 hours before you try and cover a bruise.
The other issue is sweat…
What Happens if I Sweat After Microneedling?
Hopefully nothing, but ‘sweating after microneedling can irritate the skin when it’s still a little compromised afterwards, leading to more discomfort,’ says Dr Shotter.
‘I normally suggest leaving at least 48 hours between your microneedling treatment and a workout – and if if you’ve had a deeper treatment, you may even need to leave it slightly longer before returning to your exercise routine.’
Dr Yalda adds. ‘Avoiding sweating will also decrease the risk of infection following treatment. I suggest that avoiding exercise for 72 hours following the treatment is ideal. That’s enough time to allow the small tiny holes to heal up and for the swelling to start reducing.’
Of course, it’s not just exercise that leads to perspiration so you might be wondering ‘can I sweat afrer microneedling for other reasons?’
And the answer is, it’s best avoided. Keep out of saunas and steam rooms for at least 48 hours after your treatment, and, where possible, try and keep your face cool outside of the house for at least 48 hours.
If you do sweat, make sure you have a clean towel, or hanky to wipe things away – the last thing you need is dabbing off sweat with an old towel that might be carrying bacteria that could enter the skin and lead to breakouts.
These breaks in the skin happen with lots and lots of procedures – including microblading and tattooing.
Any Extra Rules for Cardio After Microneedling?
‘Again, it depends how deep the treatment you have had has gone into the skin,’ says Dr Shotter. ‘For a more superficial treatment 48 hours is plenty. But if your technician has worked at deeper levels then it may even be a week before you will want to feel hot and sweaty.’
When Can You Swim After Microneedling?
‘Swimming should be avoided for a week. Chlorine in the water can aggravate the already irritated skin following needling,’ says Dr Yalda.
On top of this, whenever the skin is broken there can be a risk of infection if water isn’t properly chlorinated. You may not be able to see or feel the tiny holes that microneedling causes in the skin after your treatment, but they are there and while they do close pretty quickly (some estimates say within 60- 90 minutes) it’s best to wait long enough for the healing process to progress a bit further.
This is another reason why you should avoid hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms for at least 48 hours after your treatment.
What about Yoga or Pilates?
‘Hot yoga in particular can be an issue, as the increased heat, sweat and body temperature can make the treated area stingy and uncomfortable,’ says Dr Shotter.
‘I would also avoid inversions during other types of yoga, for the same reasons as outlined above – the increased blood flow can increase swelling and bruising.’
If you’re just doing gentle yoga or Pilates though you should be okay to start back the next day.
Bending too much also isn’t recommended after Botox, find out why in our guide to when, and how you can bend after Botox.
If you do head out to a class or studio that soon though, remember the skin can look kind of like it’s sunburned for a few days after treatment. Don’t try and hide any redness that you might be experiencing, you shouldn’t put anything on the treated skin for at least 24 hours after a microneedling treatment.
What About Home Dermaroller?
It is possible to use dermaroller type devices to use on the skin at home. These should have smaller needles than devices used by professionals and so don’t damage the skin in the same way. ‘It is safe to use a device up to 0.25mm at home,’ says Dr Shotter. ‘This is extremely superficial and will aid the penetration of products, without causing significant compromise of the epidermis.’
Can You Workout After Microneedling at Home?
Now, if the treatment is less damaging to the skin you might wonder what that means for your gym session? Can you work out after dermaroller at home? ‘I would still avoid immediate exercise after using a dermaroller at home or too soon before you use the device, but if you’ve exercised in the morning and are using a device at home in the evening that would be fine. Don’t overdo the derma rolling at home though. 2-3 times per week is plenty.’
You might find professional-length dermarollers sold online and be tempted to get one for home use but don’t do it. ‘Incorrect technique can permanently damage your skin, leaving scarring and hyperpigmentation. You are also less likely to be able to adhere to a sterile standard at home and this can increase your risk of a skin infection following treatment,’ says Dr Yalda.
‘Always book your microneedling session with an experienced skin specialist. Only sterile, single use, approved devices should be used. A course of 3-6 treatments spaces 4 weeks apart will give the best results.’
Can I Wear A Mask After Microneedling
Procell™ MicroChanneling is a breakthrough microneedling treatment that can significantly improve the health and appearance of your skin. It works by creating microscopic columns of injury that trigger internal rejuvenation. To heal quickly and achieve a smooth, glowing complexion, you’ll need to follow some post-treatment instructions.
Below, you’ll find a few do’s and don’ts to guide your short recovery and help maximize your results. When you visit our practice, a trained member of our aesthetics team will give you additional recommendations.
Wearing Makeup
Since microneedling causes temporary skin redness, most patients are interested in wearing makeup after their treatment. However, it’s important to avoid applying anything, apart from the provided solution or mask, for at least 90 minutes. After 90 minutes, many patients choose to stay makeup-free to give their skin more time to breathe.
If you want to wear makeup so you can return to work without looking red, mineral powder is an ideal choice. Make sure to use a clean brush when you apply it to avoid introducing bacteria to your skin.
Washing Your Face
As far as washing your face after microneedling goes, you should only use lukewarm water for the first 48 hours. On days two and three, it’s safe to cleanse with a gentle, non-exfoliating face wash.
Make sure to apply the product using light, circular hand motions, and don’t use a facial cleansing brush. Around day four, you should be able to resume your regular skin care routine.
Applying Skin Care Products
We will provide you with a week’s worth of serum to use after your Procell™ MicroChanneling treatment. This high-quality product is designed to pair well with the skin service and enhance your results. We have full-size products available for purchase as well!
When using the serums, gels, and creams you have at home, avoid products that contain active ingredients such as retinol. These products will likely irritate your skin during this time of increased sensitivity.
Applying moisturizer is particularly crucial after microneedling, especially from day two to four, when the skin tends to experience trans-epidermal moisture loss. Due to the micro-injury caused by the treatment, water can temporarily pass more easily from the dermis through the epidermis and evaporate. Keep your recommended moisturizer on hand and apply it as frequently as necessary to avoid feeling dry.
Avoiding Sun Exposure
Too much sun exposure is never good for the skin. It can cause damage and contribute to concerns such as visible aging and pigmentation issues.
Since you’ve just invested in Procell™ MicroChanneling to improve your complexion, it’s particularly important to avoid harmful UV rays. You should limit your time in the sun and a wear broad-spectrum SPF, as microneedling temporarily increases skin sensitivity. After the healing phase is complete, continue to wear sunscreen daily to protect your healthy new skin cells.
Exercising and Sweating
If you’re loyal to an intense fitness routine, you’ll need to take a day or two off. We advise patients to avoid sweaty exercise right after microneedling, as it can contribute to irritation and swelling while potentially exposing the skin to bacteria.