SkinPen Pre & Post Care Instructions

At The Natural Beauty Med Spa, we want to ensure you get the best possible results from your SkinPen Microneedling treatment. Proper pre- and post-care are essential for optimal healing and to enhance your results. Below are the instructions to follow before and after your treatment.

What is SkinPen Microneedling?

SkinPen is an advanced microneedling device that uses tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates the body’s natural healing process, boosting collagen and elastin production, which helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and overall skin texture. SkinPen treatments are non-invasive with minimal downtime and offer visible results over time.

Pre-Treatment Instructions for SkinPen

To prepare for your SkinPen microneedling session, it’s important to follow these pre-treatment guidelines:

• Avoid chemical exfoliants: Refrain from using products containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, retinols, or retinoids a few days prior to treatment. These can make the skin more sensitive and increase the risk of irritation.

• Avoid tanning: Do not have any active tan or use artificial tanners (like spray tans) on the treatment area for at least 2-4 weeks prior to the procedure. Tanned or sunburned skin cannot be treated.

• Avoid blood-thinning medications: Refrain from taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or other blood-thinning medications at least 48 hours before your treatment. Avoid alcohol consumption as well to reduce the risk of bruising.

• Manage swelling: Slight swelling may occur due to your body’s histamine response. You can take an antihistamine, such as Claritin or Zyrtec, one hour before your treatment to minimize swelling.

• Cold sore history: If you have a history of cold sores, inform us before your treatment so we can provide prophylactic treatment to prevent a flare-up.

Post-Treatment Instructions for SkinPen

After your SkinPen treatment, it’s crucial to follow these post-care instructions to ensure proper healing and maximize your results.

Immediately After Treatment

• Redness is expected: Mild to moderate redness is normal and can last 1-3 hours. You may experience some slight swelling or a warm sensation similar to a mild sunburn.

• Protect your skin: Keep your skin protected from the sun by staying indoors as much as possible. If you need to go outside, wear a hat and apply SPF.

• Avoid sun exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of pigmentation changes.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support your skin’s healing.

The Night of Your Treatment

For the night following your SkinPen microneedling treatment:

• Take an antihistamine: It is recommended to take an antihistamine, such as Benadryl, Claritin, or Zyrtec, before bed to reduce potential swelling.

• Cleanse gently: Wash your face using Revision Gentle Foaming Cleanser or any gentle, non-exfoliating cleanser with lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or irritating the treated areas.

• Moisturize: Apply Revision DEJ Face Cream or another gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.

• Continue antihistamines: Take an antihistamine like Benadryl or Zyrtec at bedtime for five nights to reduce swelling and itchiness as your skin heals.

The Morning After Treatment

The next day, follow these steps for the best healing results:

• Wash gently: Gently cleanse your face with Gentle Foaming Cleanser and lukewarm water. Do not scrub the treated areas.

• Moisturize regularly: Reapply DEJ Face Cream or a gentle moisturizer 2-3 times throughout the day, depending on your skin’s dryness.

• Apply sunscreen: Use sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 every two hours when outdoors. Not wearing SPF during the healing process can cause hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and scarring.

• Avoid makeup: Refrain from applying makeup for at least 24 hours, although 48 hours is preferred to allow your skin more time to heal.

For the Next Five Days

To promote healing, follow these guidelines for the first five days after your SkinPen treatment:

• Continue antihistamines: Take an antihistamine like Benadryl, Claritin, or Zyrtec at bedtime to help with any swelling or itchiness.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and keep your skin moisturized.

• Apply SPF: Always use sunscreen and reapply every two hours when outdoors to protect your skin from sun damage.

For the Next 72 Hours

During the first 72 hours after your SkinPen microneedling treatment:

• Avoid exercise: Refrain from any strenuous activity or activities that induce sweating, as this can irritate your skin.

• No hot showers or saunas: Avoid hot showers, steam rooms, or saunas, as excess heat can worsen swelling and redness.

For the Next Week

For optimal healing and to ensure long-lasting results, follow these post-treatment guidelines for one week:

• Be gentle with the treated areas: Do not scratch, pick, or scrub your skin. Let any peeling or flaking happen naturally.

• Avoid exfoliants: Refrain from using chemical and physical exfoliants (such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or scrubs) during this time.

• Avoid active skincare ingredients: Do not use products containing Vitamin C, retinoids, or other active ingredients until your skin has fully healed.

• Protect your skin from the sun: Avoid prolonged sun exposure, and apply SPF every two hours when outdoors to prevent pigmentation changes.

Maximize Your Results with Consistent Aftercare

Following your SkinPen microneedling treatment, your skin will naturally repair itself, leading to smoother and more radiant skin. Consistent aftercare can help you achieve and maintain the best results.

Long-Term Care Tips

• Use sunscreen daily: Always wear broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from UV damage. Sun exposure can diminish your results and lead to pigmentation issues.

• Hydrate your skin: Keep your skin hydrated by using a gentle moisturizer and drinking plenty of water.

• Follow a gentle skincare routine: Use a mild cleanser and avoid harsh products until your skin has completely healed.

Frequently Asked Questions About SkinPen Microneedling Aftercare

1. Is redness normal after SkinPen treatment?

Yes, mild to moderate redness is expected after microneedling and can last anywhere from 1-3 hours to a few days depending on your skin’s sensitivity.

2. When can I apply makeup after SkinPen microneedling?

You should avoid applying makeup for at least 24 hours after treatment, although waiting 48 hours is ideal for better healing.

3. Can I exercise after SkinPen microneedling?

Avoid exercise and any activities that cause sweating for at least 72 hours after your treatment to prevent irritation and infection.

4. How long should I avoid the sun after SkinPen treatment?

It’s best to avoid direct sun exposure for at least one week post-treatment. When you do go outside, wear sunscreen and protective clothing to minimize sun damage.

5. When will I see results from SkinPen microneedling?

Results will start to become visible within 1-2 weeks as your skin begins to heal and collagen production increases. Full results can be seen after a series of treatments over several months.

Why Choose The Natural Beauty Med Spa for SkinPen Microneedling?

At The Natural Beauty Med Spa, our experienced team specializes in advanced microneedling treatments using SkinPen to help you achieve smoother, younger-looking skin. We tailor each treatment to suit your unique skin concerns and provide expert aftercare guidance to ensure you get the best possible results.

Contact Us to Schedule Your SkinPen Appointment

Ready to rejuvenate your skin with SkinPen Microneedling? Schedule your consultation at The Natural Beauty Med Spa today. Call us at 631-377-5925 or book your appointment online.