6-12 month

Avoid Accutane (isotretinoin) for at least 6-12 months prior to treatment.

7 Days

• Avoid retinoids, topical antibiotics, exfoliants, hydroquinone, sunburn, and benzoyl peroxide.

• Avoid waxing, IPL/laser depilatory creams, or electrolysis

• Avoid aggressive exfoliation. Including scrubs, at-home peels, or exfoliating devices.

• No prolong UV exposure and direct sun or tanning beds.

5 Days

• Stop all Active skincare products including retinoids, exfoliating acids, exfoliants, or topical antibiotics. Do not use topical agents that may increase the sensitivity of your skin (Check with your prescribing physician)

• No waxing, depilatory creams, or electrolysis to the area being treated for 5 days prior.

• Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen.

• Do not experiment with new products before the procedure.

48 hours before treatment

• Avoid alcohol, blood thinners and caffeine 24-48 hours before the procedure.

• Do not experiment with new products before the procedure.

• Keep makeup to a minimum day of the procedure if possible.

What to Avoid 21 Days Before your microneedling Treatment

Please see list on contradictions before booking your consultation.

Microneedling Aftercare / Post-Treatment Instructions

Please follow the aftercare instructions below and notify your therapist if you experience any concerns or adverse reactions.

Cleansing

• You may gently cleanse the skin 6 hours after treatment or before bedtime, using a gentle cleanser and tepid water.

• Do not scrub. Pat dry with a clean towel.

Post-Procedure Products

• Use the post-procedure kit (Cleanse & Moisturise) only for 4 days following your treatment.

• Avoid introducing any other skincare unless advised.

Sun & Heat

• Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for 7–10 days or until the skin is fully healed.

• Apply a physical SPF 30+ during the day, after 24 hours (and cleansing your face).

• Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, and excessive heat until healing is complete

Skin Care Restrictions

• Do not pick, scratch, or exfoliate the skin. Allow any flaking to shed naturally.

• Do not apply cold compresses or ice packs to skin.

• Avoid taking ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatories.

• Avoid active or exfoliating products for 1–2 weeks, including:

  • Retinoids (Retin-A)

  • Glycolic acid

  • Salicylic acid

  • Benzoyl peroxide

• Avoid makeup for 3–5 days or until the skin has fully settled.

• Avoid any other facial or aesthetic treatments for 14 days.

Activity

• Avoid strenuous exercise and excessive sweating until the skin has healed.

Healing

• Mild redness, tightness, or flaking is normal.

• The skin typically heals within approximately one week.

Sleep

• For the first few nights, sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated to reduce swelling.

• Use a clean pillowcase.

Hydration

• Support healing by drinking 6–8 glasses of water per day.

If you already drink this amount, increase by an additional 2 glasses daily

Should you have any concerns after your procedure,please contact your Dermalogica skin therapist.

What to Expect After Your Treatment

Day 1
The skin may appear red and flushed immediately after treatment. Depending on the intensity of the treatment, pinpoint bleeding may occur. The skin may feel dry and tight.

Day 2
Redness or pinkness dryness/tightness may persist, similar to a moderate sunburn. Swelling and slight bruising may be more noticeable on the second day. Minor scratches may be visible. Apply moisturiser as needed.

Day 3
The skin may appear pink or return to a normal tone as swelling subsides. The skin can feel dry or tight. Mild acne-like bumps (tiny white bumps) are possible. Light peeling often occurs around day three and will be replaced by fresh, new skin. Over the next few days, you may notice a few small spots appear. This is not a breakout, it is a process known as purging and is a normal part of the skins process after microneedling.

*Purging occurs when microneedling accelerates cell turnover, causing congestion beneath the skin (such as oil and debris) to rise to the surface more quickly. Once this clears, healthier, clearer, and more youthful-looking skin is revealed.