How To Prepare For Microneedling
What To Do & What To Avoid Before Microneedling Treatment
Microneedling is a popular, non-surgical cosmetic procedure that involves using fine needles to skillfully create controlled injuries to the skin. This safely triggers the body’s natural healing process and stimulates collagen production, which can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and other skin concerns.
As you prepare for your initial session, there are a few things your provider will want you to know so you can get the most out of this treatment — and prolong those beautiful results!
How To Prep Skin For Microneedling At Home
Optimal preparation for microneedling actually begins months before your first treatment is scheduled! During the initial consultation, your provider will access the current state of your skin, listen to your concerns and establish a pre-treatment regimen. This routine is centered around making the skin healthier, preconditioning the skin and creating a clean slate for the provider to work with. Not only does this bespoke process help your body respond better to the microneedling procedure, but you will recover even faster.
What To Avoid At Least 24-48 Hours Before Microneedling Treatments
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Blood-thinning prescription medications
- OTC blood thinning (Ibuprofen, aspirin, Tylenol, etc.)
- Any cosmetic acids (pads, toners, etc.)
- Fish oil (can be ideal in the weeks leading up to the treatment but should be stopped 48 hours out)
Staying well-hydrated is also crucial to ensuring excellent results — this goes for before your treatment and well into the microneedling aftercare process.
When To Stop Retinol Before Treatment
Retinol usage should be paused one week before your microneedling treatment. This product can typically be resumed one week after your treatment, but you should first consult with your provider to ensure this is the best course of action for you.
Should You Get A Facial Before Microneedling?
Yes. A medspa facial is typically part of the microneedling preparation plan. This process clears out the pores of debris. We don’t want to stir up the bacteria and just push it back down into the skin — this can cause a breakout. If you have a clean slate, you’ve been using products and your skin is prepped, the medical microneedling treatment can begin with the greatest chance of achieving the best results.
About The Author
Tatjana Dzamov is the senior skincare expert at Donaldson Plastic Surgery. Throughout her tenure in the medspa industry, she has researched new treatments and discovered revolutionary products designed to improve the health and appearance of skin. She has also established her own line of medical-grade skincare products. Tatjana believes that healthy living begins with accurate information and is achieved with adequate preparation and a proactive, truly customized routine that meets the unique needs of each patient.
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