Microneedling aftercare
The skin barrier is temporarily compromised, so sun protection is not an optional extra — it is part of the treatment working.
Ring rather than wait if you have
- Blistering or severe pain
- Darkening of the treated area — early treatment of post-inflammatory pigmentation matters
- Spreading redness, swelling that worsens after day two, or discharge
- Fever or feeling generally unwell
- A cold sore developing in or near the treated area
Call 07721 823933. I would far rather see you and find nothing than have you wait it out overnight. If you cannot reach me and you are worried, contact NHS 111 or attend your nearest emergency department.
01The first 24 hours
- Expect redness and warmth similar to mild sunburn, with some tightness.
- Use only a bland cleanser and a simple moisturiser. Nothing active.
- No make-up until the skin surface is intact, usually 24–48 hours.
02The first week
- Flaking or a sandpapery texture often appears around day three. Do not pick, pull or exfoliate it away.
- Whether you visibly peel is not a measure of whether it worked.
- Reintroduce active ingredients gradually from about day five to seven, retinoids last.
03What to avoid, and for how long
| Picking or exfoliating flaking skin | until it has finished |
|---|---|
| Active skincare — acids, retinoids, vitamin C | 5–7 days |
| Strenuous exercise, saunas and hot showers | 48 hours |
| Sun exposure without SPF 50 | at least 2 weeks |
| Sunbeds | 4 weeks |
04What to expect, and when
Day 1–2
Redness settles.
Day 3–6
Flaking, where it happens.
Week 2
Skin settled, results emerging.
Week 4
Next session, if you are having a course.
This is general aftercare information. You will be given written aftercare specific to your treatment before you leave, and a direct number to reach me on. If anything here conflicts with what you were told in clinic, what you were told in clinic applies.
Sources and further reading
- NHS — Dermal fillers
- British Association of Dermatologists — patient information
- Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners
- Aesthetic Complications Expert Group
This is general aftercare information, not personal medical advice. What you were told in clinic takes precedence over anything on this page.
Get in touch
Book a consultation
Consultations are £30, and that comes off the cost of your treatment if you go ahead. No pressure to book anything on the day — if you are not sure whether you want treatment at all, that is still a good reason to come and talk.