Microneedling: What the Session and Recovery Are Really Like

Microneedling is widely discussed online with varying accuracy. Here is a straightforward account of what a session and its recovery actually involve.

Before the session

You will be asked to avoid sun exposure beforehand and to pause retinoids, acids and certain actives for a specified period. Disclose all medications — particularly oral acne medication, blood thinners and anything affecting healing — and any history of cold sores or keloid scarring. Attend with clean skin, free of makeup.

During

The area is cleansed and a topical numbing preparation is typically applied and given time to take effect. The device is then passed over the treatment area in sections.

Most people describe a vibrating sensation with some prickling, more noticeable over bonier areas such as the forehead and jawline. Comfort is checked throughout and you can ask to pause at any point.

Immediately after

Skin commonly looks flushed, similar in appearance to sunburn. This is expected and generally settles over the following day or two. Some people experience a feeling of tightness or warmth.

The following days

Dryness or light flaking is common as the skin completes its response. Do not pick or peel flaking skin — let it shed naturally, as interfering risks marking.

Avoid makeup for the advised period, avoid heat and strenuous exercise initially, use only the products you have been advised to use, and protect the area from sun rigorously. Do not resume retinoids or acids until told it is appropriate.

Why one session is not the plan

Microneedling works by prompting the skin’s own gradual repair processes, so change builds across a course rather than appearing after one treatment. Review points are built into the plan so progress is assessed when it is meaningful.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Suitability for microneedling is assessed individually.