How to Reduce Redness After Microneedling

Microneedling is a therapeutic cosmetic procedure that is used to rejuvenate the skin. Using a special hand-held tool that has 12 tiny needles, a clinician gently pierces the skin, creating thousands of micro-injuries. These injuries are so tiny, they immediately close back together, yet they still trigger an immune response that works to heal and repair skin cell damage. The body sends out signals that stimulate the production of collagen, and cellular turnover ensues. The result: new, healthy skin in place of old, rough, discolored skin. While microneedling is minimally-invasive and highly effective for a number of issues, it can nevertheless cause temporary swelling and redness. Take a look at how to reduce redness after microneedling:

Take Action Before Treatment

Minimize your risk of troublesome side effects by avoiding certain medications and skin irritants that can make your skin more sensitive than normal. Stay out of the sun; do not wax or undergo electrolysis; and avoid anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), topical retinoids and exfoliants during the week prior to treatment. You should also forgo laser and light treatments, as well as alcohol consumption. If your doctor approves, you can take acetaminophen right before and after a microneedling session to help reduce any initial swelling and redness.

Drink Water

Being well hydrated, before, during and following your microneedling treatment will help minimize inflammation and, thus, reduce redness.

Add In a PRP Treatment

PRP, platelet-rich plasma, contains two components: plasma and platelets, which together work to help blood clot and cells to regenerate. Combining microneedling with a PRP treatment provides the body with additional resources to fight inflammation, stimulate collagen production and speed healing, thereby reducing redness and other effects of the wound healing process.

Apply a Cold Compress

Redness often occurs after injury because blood vessels widen to accommodate the delivery of the nutrients needed for cellular repair of the wound that’s been created. Applying a cold compress can help constrict the vessels and lessen the appearance of redness.

Steer Clear of Makeup

As much as you might like to cover up any redness after microneedling, don’t apply makeup for two or three days. It will only interfere with your skin’s natural ability to heal itself. It could also lead to breakouts and/or infection.

Ditch Your Normal Routine

If you want to reduce redness after microneedling you need to ditch your normal routine. For a few days following your microneedling session, skip your usual workout and refrain from your regular skin care regimen. Excess sweat from exercising can cause breakouts, and the chemicals in many skincare products can irritate the skin, either only further inflaming the skin and making it redder.

Use Moisturizing Sunscreen

You can, however, apply a gentle moisturizing sunscreen to protect and restore hydration to the skin, which will help eliminate redness.

Want to Learn More?

Microneedling is a beneficial treatment for people wanting to revitalize their complexion. If you are considering this procedure, please contact us for additional tips on how to reduce redness after microneedling so that you can look your best as quickly as possible!