What should I expect immediately after microneedling?

Immediately after the procedure, the skin will appear red and flushed, similar to a moderate sunburn. You may also experience skin tightness and mild sensitivity to touch on certain areas. This will diminish significantly within a few hours following the procedure.

When can I apply makeup after microneedling?

Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours. Once permitted, use only clean, non-comedogenic products. We strongly recommend using Oxygenetix until fully healed, as it is created explicitly for use post-procedure.

How should I cleanse my skin after microneedling?

Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser like ZO’s Gentle Cleanser with lukewarm water. Pat dry using a clean towel. Avoid any other skin care products and serums unless recommended by your treatment provider.

What activities should I avoid post-treatment?

Until fully healed, or at least 72 hours, avoid direct sun exposure, strenuous exercise, saunas, hot yoga, pools, hot tubs, and other water sources that may harbor bacteria. Also, avoid smoking or drinking alcohol, as these can slow healing and reduce collagen production.

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Post Care

Microneedling

After microneedling, your skin will appear red and flushed — similar to a moderate sunburn — and may feel tight or mildly sensitive. This typically improves significantly within a few hours and resolves within 24–48 hours. Pinpoint bruising in more aggressively treated areas may resolve within 24–72 hours.

Please contact our office at (610) 393-1253 if you experience:

Increasing redness, swelling, or warmth in the treated area beyond the expected healing window
Pus, unusual discharge, or open sores at the treatment site
Fever or flu-like symptoms
Dark discoloration, tenderness, or signs of skin breakdown
Prolonged or worsening sensitivity, stinging, or burning beyond 48–72 hours
Hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing (signs of allergic reaction)
Any sign that the treated skin is not healing as expected

If it is after hours, leave a message and we will follow up within 24 hours. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

GENERAL POST CARE POLICIES

Medications

Avoid blood-thinning medications, supplements, foods, and alcohol until bruising and swelling have fully resolved — unless they are medically necessary. Common items to avoid include Advil, ibuprofen, Motrin, fish oil, garlic, ginger, almonds, and green tea.

Exercise

Refrain from exercise until all visible bruising and swelling have subsided, as increased circulation may prolong healing.

Pain Relief

If you need pain relief, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe to use—unless contraindicated based on your medical history or other medications.

Bruising/Swelling

You may take Arnica to help reduce bruising and swelling, unless it is contraindicated (e.g., with high blood pressure or other medical conditions). Always follow the instructions on the label.

POST-CARE POLICIES

For 24 Hours

The skin may feel like a light sunburn.

Apply a CO2Lift Pro Mask to soothe, hydrate, reduce redness, and speed healing.
Avoid touching the skin.
Avoid makeup.
Avoid alcohol.
Avoid sunlight.
Avoid workouts, saunas, and other hot environments.
Drink plenty of fluids.

The following ZO products are safe to use 24 hours after treatment: Gentle Cleanser, Balancing Cleansing Emulsion, Growth Factor Serum, Firming Serum, Daily Power Defense, Peptide Facial Refining Concentrate, and Brightalive Skin Brightener.

For Days 2-3

Redness will fade and skin may have mild dryness and flaking.
Cleanse gently (no acids).
Hydrate often with SkinRescue and a light moisturizer.
Begin mineral SPF 30+ — we recommend Colorescience.

For Days 4-7

The skin may feel dry with mild flaking, peeling, and textural changes.
Continue gentle hydration and SPF.
Avoid exfoliants, retinols, and acids until after Day 7.
If additional sessions are planned, they should be scheduled 4–6 weeks after this session.

Please review these instructions carefully so nothing is missed. Proper post-care reduces the risk of irritation or pigment changes and supports better, more even results from your microneedling series.

Your happiness and confidence are our top priorities.

After your treatment has fully settled, please reach out by phone (610-393-1253) or email and let us know if there is anything we can do to improve your results or experience.