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Microneedling Downtime: What to Do (and Not Do After Your Treatment)
So You Just Got Microneedling… Now What?
Whether it’s your first treatment or your fifth, the 48 hours after microneedling are crucial for your results. At Skin Renew Co, we love how this treatment transforms texture, acne scars, and fine lines — but it only works its magic if you treat your skin right during recovery.
Here’s your guide to what microneedling downtime looks like, and what to do (and not do) while you heal.
What Microneedling Downtime Feels Like (Day by Day)
Day 0 (Treatment Day):
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Skin feels warm, tight, and flushed — like a sunburn
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You may notice pinpoint redness or puffiness
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Keep skin clean and hydrated with Hydrogel (Lift) or your provider’s post-care pick
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Do NOT apply makeup, SPF, or skincare actives
Day 1:
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Redness may persist, swelling can appear overnight
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Skin still feels warm or sensitive
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No workouts, sun exposure, or exfoliants
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Gently cleanse and reapply hydration
Day 2:
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Redness typically fades
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You may see mild flaking or dryness
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Makeup and mineral sunscreen are okay
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Skin is still healing — keep it calm
Day 3–4:
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Most redness is gone
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You’ll notice a glow starting to come through
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Resume most skincare, except retinoids or acids
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Keep skin moisturized and protected
🚫 What NOT to Do After Microneedling
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❌ Don’t touch your face with unwashed hands
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❌ No hot tubs, saunas, or heavy sweating for 48 hours
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❌ Skip the gym (sweat = irritation)
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❌ Avoid sun — your skin is extra vulnerable
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❌ No exfoliating or active ingredients (retinol, AHA/BHA, vitamin C) for at least 3 days
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❌ Don’t pick or peel if flaking starts
✅ What You Should Do
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✅ Keep your skin clean and hydrated with your provider-approved post-care
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✅ Sleep on a clean pillowcase
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✅ Drink lots of water — internal hydration helps skin bounce back
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✅ Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers
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✅ Ask us before reintroducing actives like retinol or acne products
💡 How Long Is the Downtime, Really?
Most Skin Renew Co clients feel totally comfortable in public by Day 2, and glowing by Day 4. But everyone’s skin is different — especially if you’re prone to redness, inflammation, or acne.
We’ll help tailor your post-care routine so your skin recovers fast and beautifully.
🧴 Should I Keep Getting Microneedling?
If you’re doing microneedling as part of a series (for acne scars, fine lines, or texture), we’ll space treatments about 4–6 weeks apart. Stick to your post-care after each one to build stronger results over time.
💬 Still Unsure What’s Normal?
Every treatment comes with a follow-up guide, but if you’re ever unsure about how your skin’s healing — shoot us a message or text. We’d rather you ask than guess.
💫 Your Skin’s Healing — Let It Shine
The best glow comes from great post-care. Stay consistent, protect your skin, and give it time to rebuild. You’re doing the work — let it pay off.
