Care Guides · Skin
Microneedling Pre-Care & Aftercare Instructions
Everything you need to know before and after your microneedling treatment at Revel Beauty Club, including your day-by-day recovery routine. These instructions also apply to HydraNeedling unless your provider tells you otherwise.
Clinically reviewed by our Medical Director, Kelly Ross, NP
Before your appointment · After your treatment · When to contact us
Every 6–8 weeks
book your treatments in a series
Pause actives
retinoids, acids and exfoliants 72 hours before
2–7 days
of dryness, redness or peeling is normal
No sun or tanning
for 2 weeks after treatment
Pre-care
Before your microneedling appointment
Microneedling works best as a series. Planning your appointments 6–8 weeks apart gives your skin time to renew between treatments.
- Book your appointments 6–8 weeks apart.
- Stop retinoids, acids and exfoliants 72 hours before your appointment.
- Avoid blood thinners for 72 hours before. This includes Advil, fish oil and vitamin E. Tylenol is OK.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for 72 hours before your appointment.
- No alcohol, smoking or nicotine for 24 hours before your appointment.
- Arrive with a clean face and no makeup.
- Tell us about any changes to your health, medications or skincare.
Aftercare
After your microneedling treatment
Dryness, rough skin, tightness, redness, itching and peeling are normal for 2–7 days, depending on your skin’s sensitivity. Follow this routine to help your skin recover and get the best results.
First 24 hours
- Apply iS Clinical SHEALD Recovery Balm as needed.
- No makeup.
- Avoid touching your face with unclean hands.
24–48 hours
- Wash your face with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser.
- Continue applying iS Clinical SHEALD Recovery Balm after cleansing.
48–72 hours
- Add a physical (mineral) SPF to your routine.
First 72 hours
- No strenuous exercise.
- No saunas or hot showers.
Days 3–5
- Gradually return to your regular skincare routine. If you have sensitive skin, wait 7 days.
- Avoid retinols, acids and vitamin C for 3–5 days, depending on your skin’s sensitivity.
First 2 weeks
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds.
When to contact us
Some redness, dryness and peeling is normal after microneedling. Please call us at (416) 766-0066 if you notice:
- Signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus or fever
- Blisters, open sores or a cold sore outbreak
- Pain or swelling that is severe or getting worse instead of better
- A rash, hives or itching that feels like an allergic reaction
- Redness or irritation that is not improving after 7 days
Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department right away if you have difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face, lips or throat.
Microneedling aftercare FAQ
Is it normal for my skin to peel after microneedling?
Yes. Dryness, rough skin, tightness, redness, itching and peeling are normal for 2–7 days, depending on your skin’s sensitivity.
When can I wear makeup after microneedling?
Avoid makeup for the first 24 hours after your treatment.
When can I go back to retinol or vitamin C?
Avoid retinols, acids and vitamin C for 3–5 days, depending on your skin’s sensitivity. If you have sensitive skin, wait 7 days before returning to your regular routine.
When can I exercise after microneedling?
Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas and hot showers for 72 hours after your treatment.
When can I go in the sun after microneedling?
Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for 2 weeks. Start using a physical (mineral) SPF 48–72 hours after your treatment.
Interested in learning more? Book a complimentary consultation for a personalized treatment plan with our expert Nurse Injectors