Microneedling is one of our popular non-surgical treatments and it can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including signs of aging, sun damage, and irregular skin texture and tone. After your microneedling treatment, it is important to follow aftercare instructions to protect your skin and allow for the best possible results.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a non-surgical procedure performed in-office by board-certified aesthetic nurse specialist Jennifer Fick. During the microneedling treatment, a handheld device equipped with multiple tiny needles punctures the skin, triggering the body’s natural wound-healing process and stimulating collagen production. Collagen is a protein in the skin that gives it structure and elasticity. As new collagen and tissues resurface the skin, healthier skin with a smoother texture and brighter complexion will develop.
Benefits of Microneedling
Microneedling treatment can target many skin concerns, including:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne scars
- Hyperpigmentation: sun spots and age spots
- Improves the appearance of crepey skin on the face, neck and chest
- Dull skin
Depending on each patient’s specific concerns, treatment add-ons like PRP, Vitamin C serum, or topical retinoids may be included.
Microneedling can be used before facial cosmetic or facial gender affirming surgery to improve overall skin tone and texture, and help patients feel more confident in their appearance while they wait for surgery. It can also be used after surgery to maintain beautiful results.
Microneedling Recovery
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure with little downtime but there is a short recovery period as the skin heals. Immediately after treatment, the skin may appear mildly red and swollen and there may be some flaking around the tiny wounds. Although you can immediately return to work, we recommend that you avoid strenuous activities for 2-3 days to minimize swelling and discomfort. Results will start to be seen after a few weeks as collagen develops and gently plumps the skin. A series of treatments may be needed for optimal results.
Tips for Recovery
The following aftercare methods will ensure a safe recovery and the best possible results from your microneedling treatment:
Protect Your Skin From the Sun
After microneedling treatments, the skin will be sensitive to heat and more prone to sun damage because of the tiny wounds made on the surface. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher should be worn daily for at least two weeks after treatment. However, we recommend daily sunscreen application regardless of cosmetic procedures to prevent sun damage and premature aging.
Keep Your Skin Clean
Infections after a microneedling procedure are rare but they can occur if the open wounds are not kept clean. Makeup should be avoided for the first day to prevent bacteria exposure in the treatment area. Swimming pools, saunas, and exercise should also be avoided for three days to prevent exposure to dirt or harmful bacteria. We may prescribe a topical antibiotic cream and will give you detailed instructions for how often to apply it.
Use Gentle Skincare Products
Harsh skin care products with ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids should be avoided for at least two days after microneedling treatments. These ingredients have exfoliating properties that could damage your healing skin, causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or other complications. Instead, use a gentle cleanser and moisturize, and be careful not to scrub your skin.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about microneedling in San Francisco, CA, schedule a consultation today at The Deschamps-Braly Clinic. Aesthetic Nurse Specialist Jennifer Fick and our team look forward to meeting you and getting started on a personalized treatment plan that helps you look and feel your very best.
Dr. Deschamps-Braly is a board-certified plastic and craniofacial surgeon specializing in facial plastic surgery, orthognathic (jaw) surgery, and craniofacial surgery for adults and children. He is also one of the world’s foremost leaders and innovators in facial gender confirmation surgery.
