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Microneedling is a popular option for people looking to diminish the signs of aging, scars, and uneven skin tone or texture, in large part because of the way it works. Instead of masking complexion issues, microneedling improves skin’s structure by promoting the development of collagen, a protein essential for firm, healthy-looking skin.
While microneedling can do wonders for your skin, the key to getting the best results — and avoiding potential irritation — is to take good care of your skin before and after treatment. Here, the team at Luminary Dermatology offers some tips to help you get the beautiful results you’re looking for.
Preparation is key with microneedling
Proper preparation helps ensure your skin responds well to microneedling treatment, reducing the risk of irritation, speeding healing and recovery, and promoting optimal collagen development.
Pause strong active ingredients
During your consultation visit, let us know about any skin products you’re using. For most people, avoiding products that contain retinoids, exfoliating acids, and other strong ingredients is essential for reducing skin sensitivity after treatment. Our team can help you adjust your routine temporarily to prevent irritation following your session.
Use gentle products
Avoiding harsh ingredients doesn’t mean giving up your skin care routine entirely. Instead, focus on gentle products to cleanse your skin, followed by protective moisturizers to strengthen your skin barrier. Drinking plenty of water ensures skin is well hydrated prior to treatment, another factor that can have an impact on your results.
Discuss medications or skin conditions with your provider
It’s also important to share your medical history and note any medications you’re taking. Some medications and chronic conditions, including skin disorders like psoriasis or active cold sores, could affect how your skin heals. We may recommend special preparation steps to protect your skin’s health and ensure optimal results.
Avoid excessive sun exposure
Too much sun leads to irritation and inflammation, issues that usually mean you need to postpone your microneedling session.
Florida is famous for its beautiful sun, but it’s important to limit direct sun exposure and wear sunscreen every day for at least two weeks before treatment to prevent damage and ensure your skin is healthy. Also avoid tanning beds for a couple of weeks prior to treatment.
Skip waxing, too
There’s no denying that waxing can help your skin look and feel smooth and sexy. But it can also temporarily irritate your skin. If you have an upcoming waxing visit, reschedule it until after your microneedling session to avoid uncomfortable side effects.
Aftercare also matters for microneedling
After your treatment, your skin enters a healing phase where collagen production starts to ramp up. Optimizing your aftercare routine during healing gives your skin the added protection it needs to heal properly and give you the results you’re looking for. Take these steps to avoid damaging your skin.
Use gentle, hydrating skin care products
After treatment, your skin’s barrier can be irritated and disrupted. Using gentle products that rehydrate and moisturize soothe irritation and support faster healing.
Skip exfoliation and harsh ingredients
On the flip side, exfoliating products and retinoids can interfere with healing and increase irritation and redness. Hold off on using these harsher products during skin’s initial healing phase — at least for the first week or so.
Protect your skin with sunscreen daily
For a few weeks after treatment, your skin will be especially sensitive to the effects of direct sunlight. Using sunscreen and avoiding excess exposure is essential for proper healing — and good for skin all year round.
Follow recovery instructions
Most important, be sure to follow the instructions we provide at the end of your treatment session. Our team recommends follow-up care based on your skin to help you get the best results without irritation so you can enjoy maximum results.
We can help you maximize your microneedling
Microneedling works by encouraging your skin to rebuild itself over time. Adhering to a long-term skin care routine based on your skin’s profile is one of the best ways to lock in great results.
To learn how we can help your skin look and feel its best all year, book an appointment online or over the phone today with the team at Luminary Dermatology in North Miami Beach, Homestead, Sarasota, Kendall, Venice, Longboat Key, Bradenton, and North Port, Florida.