Nova Med Spa
Microneedling Pre & Post Care
Following these guidelines carefully will help ensure the best possible results, minimize downtime, and support your skin's natural healing process after microneedling.
Day 1–2
Redness & Warmth
Skin will appear flushed and feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn. This is your skin's natural healing response.
Day 3–5
Dryness & Flaking
Mild peeling or flaking may occur as old skin sheds. Keep skin moisturized and do not pick.
Week 2+
Glow & Improvement
Skin begins to look smoother, brighter, and more even as collagen production ramps up.
Before Your Treatment
Pre-Care Instructions
Medications & Supplements
- Avoid blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and NSAIDs for at least 7 days before treatment.
- Discontinue fish oil, vitamin E, flaxseed oil, and herbal supplements (ginkgo biloba, garlic, ginseng) for 7 days prior.
- Do not stop any prescribed medications without consulting your physician first.
- Avoid alcohol for at least 24–48 hours before your appointment.
Skin Preparation
- Arrive with clean skin — free of makeup, lotions, and skincare products on the day of treatment.
- Avoid retinoids (Retin-A, tretinoin, retinol) and exfoliating acids (AHAs, BHAs) for 5–7 days before treatment.
- Do not use any harsh or active skincare products in the treatment area for 48 hours prior.
- Inform your provider of any active skin infections, cold sores, or open wounds in the treatment area.
- Do not wax, thread, or use depilatory creams on the treatment area for at least 5 days before your appointment.
Sun & Heat Exposure
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks before treatment.
- Do not receive any laser treatments, chemical peels, or other microneedling sessions within 2 weeks prior.
- If you have an active sunburn in the treatment area, your appointment may need to be rescheduled.
- Apply SPF 30+ daily in the weeks leading up to your appointment.
Health & Lifestyle
- Eat a light meal and stay well hydrated before your appointment.
- Inform your provider of any recent illnesses, infections, or changes in health status.
- Notify your provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of keloid scarring.
- Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours before treatment, as it can impair healing.
- Let your provider know if you have a history of cold sores — prophylactic antiviral medication may be recommended.
After Your Treatment
Post-Care Instructions
Immediate Aftercare (0–6 Hours)
- Do not wash the treated area for at least 4–6 hours after treatment.
- Avoid touching, rubbing, or applying pressure to the treated area.
- Do not apply makeup, skincare products, or sunscreen to the treated area for the first 24 hours.
- Expect mild redness, warmth, tightness, and sensitivity — this is normal and part of the healing process.
- Apply a cold compress (wrapped in a clean cloth) if needed to reduce swelling — avoid direct ice contact.
First 24–48 Hours
- Cleanse gently with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water.
- Apply only provider-recommended serums or healing balms — avoid active ingredients.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, steam rooms, and hot yoga for at least 48 hours.
- Do not consume alcohol for at least 24 hours after treatment.
- Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and open bodies of water for 48 hours.
- Sleep on a clean pillowcase and avoid sleeping face-down.
First Week Recovery
- Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids (AHAs, BHAs), and vitamin C serums for at least 5–7 days.
- Do not pick, peel, or scratch any flaking skin — allow it to shed naturally.
- Apply SPF 30+ every morning — your skin will be more sensitive to UV exposure during healing.
- Avoid waxing, threading, or any hair removal in the treated area for at least 1 week.
- Do not receive any other facial treatments (laser, chemical peel, injectables) for at least 2 weeks.
Long-Term Care
- Results continue to improve over 4–6 weeks as collagen remodeling progresses.
- Most clients benefit from a series of 3–6 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart for optimal results.
- Maintain a consistent SPF routine to protect your investment and prevent new sun damage.
- Schedule your next session as recommended by your provider to maintain and build on your results.
- Stay hydrated and support skin health with a balanced diet rich in antioxidants.
Important
Products to Avoid During Recovery
Retinoids
Retin-A, tretinoin, retinol — avoid for 5–7 days
Exfoliating Acids
AHAs, BHAs, glycolic, salicylic — avoid for 5–7 days
Vitamin C Serums
L-ascorbic acid formulas — avoid for 5–7 days
Benzoyl Peroxide
Acne treatments — avoid for 5–7 days
Alcohol-Based Toners
Astringents and toners with alcohol — avoid for 1 week
Fragrance & Dyes
Scented products can cause irritation — avoid for 1 week
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my skin be red after microneedling?
Redness typically resolves within 24–72 hours, similar to a mild sunburn. Some clients with sensitive skin may experience redness for up to 5 days. This is completely normal and part of the healing process.
When can I wear makeup after microneedling?
We recommend waiting at least 24 hours before applying makeup. When you do, use clean brushes or applicators and choose mineral-based, non-comedogenic products to avoid irritating the skin.
Can I exercise after microneedling?
Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours after treatment. Sweating can introduce bacteria into the micro-channels and increase the risk of irritation or infection.
My skin is peeling — is that normal?
Yes, mild flaking or peeling in the days following treatment is completely normal as your skin sheds old cells and regenerates. Do not pick or peel — let it shed naturally and keep the skin moisturized.
When will I see results?
Initial improvements in skin texture and tone are often visible within 1–2 weeks. Full collagen remodeling continues for up to 3–6 months after your final session, with results continuing to improve over time.
How soon can I have my next microneedling session?
Sessions are typically spaced 4–6 weeks apart to allow the skin to fully heal and collagen production to peak before the next treatment. Your provider will recommend the ideal schedule for your skin goals.
What should I avoid putting on my skin during recovery?
Avoid retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, and any other active ingredients for at least 5–7 days. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers, and a mineral SPF during the day.
Related Care Guides & Pages
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