How Often Should You Microneedle? (+ 7 Preparation Tips)

Do you want to learn how often should you microneedle for the best results?

As a beauty expert and avid user, I can safely say that microneedling or collagen induction therapy has absolutely changed my life for the better!

Thanks to this incredible cosmetic treatment, I’ve bid adieu to my uneven skin texture and age spots!

Here’s all you need to know about this amazing treatment and how you can get youthful skin fast!

Key Takeaways

• Microneedling can boost collagen production, reducing wrinkles and fine lines for a smoother, youthful complexion.
• The frequency of microneedling treatments is key to achieving optimal results; I’ll delve into the ideal timeline to guide your skincare regimen.
• With professional guidance and proper care, microneedling can be a safe and effective tool for skin rejuvenation.

How Often Should You Microneedle?

Professional sessions are typically done every 4 to 6 weeks, while at-home treatments can be done two or three times per week.

Keep in mind, however, that because of their limited needle depth, home treatments might not provide dramatic results.

You can try taking the professional route for better and faster results, which – of course – can cost you.

Though they do require more initial investment and healing time, they’re usually more certain and can – in phases of doubt – be monitored with greater certainty. Want proof?

Dr. Deanne Mraz Robinson, assistant clinical professor of dermatology, says, “Home treatments rarely go deep enough to give dramatic results but can enhance exfoliation and product absorption.” (1)

While this process occurs, you may notice your superficial skin concerns fading away – leaving you with clear, glowing skin.

Next, check out how long it takes for microneedling to work…

How Long Does It Take For Microneedling to Work?

Professional microneedling sessions are quite brief, usually lasting less than 30 minutes. In my experience, the condition can vary greatly depending on your individual skin type and condition. [2]

Besides, your skin type, conditions, and preferences play a huge role in the duration, so you may need more or less depending on these factors.

Dr. Peterson Pierre, a board-certified dermatologist explains why: “That’s when the increased collagen effects become evident. [2]” 

Thankfully, by the third session, you should see a significant improvement in your skin.

Another important point is to allow full recovery between each treatment session. Stalling this procedure could disrupt your precious skin instead of healing it – so be careful!

However, remember that you will probably not see extreme results in the first session.

For an in-depth discussion, check out this dermatologist as he explains more about microneedling!

It’s great to know how long it takes – but how do you optimally prepare? Next, I’ll discuss 7 tips on how to prepare best!

How To Be Prepared For Microneedling Treatment? (7 Essential Tips)

Here are 7 tips to keep in mind before you show up to your appointment!

Before the Appointment

Tip #1: Refrain from Tanning

To ensure your skin is in the best condition for microneedling, avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds at least 24 hours before your appointment.

After all, this precaution prevents skin irritation and – above all else – allows the treatment to deliver its full potential…

Bear in mind, that the sun’s rays can be problematic, and exposure can amplify skin irritation after microneedling instead of providing benefits.

Tip #2: Avoid Certain Skincare Products

Steering clear of specific skincare products before your session can spare you from potential skin irritation.

Watch out for retinoids! Why’s that?

Products containing retinoids or acids such as glycolic or salicylic acid can accelerate cellular turnover, potentially leading to skin irritation when combined with microneedling.

If you use it in conjunction with your microneedle, you’ll risk causing an allergic reaction or even overdrying.

To avoid this sticky outcome, it’s best to stop using these products at least three days before your appointment.

On the Appointment Day

Tip #3: Apply Serums to Maximize Benefits

Maximize the benefits of your treatment by applying serums with active ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, after the session.

Post-treatment, a hyaluronic acid serum can be particularly beneficial due to its hydrating and soothing properties.

Also, it is essential to wait at least four hours before rewashing your face.

Tip #4: Maintain a Clean Face

Arrive for your session with an utterly makeup-free face. If you have any makeup on, it’s best to remove it all and cleanse your skin with a gentle product.

After the Treatment

Tip #5: Avoid the Sun

Post-microneedling, your skin will be at its most vulnerable.

Do you want to know the best way to do this? Take care of your skin meticulously during this time to avoid any potential damage!

Keep away from the sun for a few days after treatment to minimize the risk of UV-induced damage.

I like to wrap a scarf around my face with just my eyes showing if I have to go out on errands.

You don’t have to be as extreme as I am, but this strategy has worked pretty well for me.

Tip #6: Avoid Some Skincare Products

All the above-mentioned skincare products you need to avoid before the treatment must also be avoided until after your skin has healed.

Microneedling typically leads to skin peeling around the third day due to increased cellular turnover – a natural reaction to the treatment’s induced micro-injuries.

While you should not be picking at your skin at any cost, you must also make sure to stave off products that peel your skin even more.

Embrace your trusty moisturizer and a good SPF. Wait at least a week before reintroducing other skincare products to your beauty regimen.

You should have healthier skin in about a week or two of getting the session.

Tip #7: Get an Appointment Again

Consistent microneedling sessions (ideally every 4-6 weeks) can enhance and sustain the treatment’s positive results.

To achieve the maximum benefits in the shortest time, embrace an approach tailored to your specific skin types and conditions – doing this will work wonders!

In fact, in about a week (or two post-session treatments) you’ll be blessed with healthier skin, more radiant skin!

Want a neat review? Here’s a quick summary!

Next: check out the truth about continuing treatments for long-term microneedling…

Do I Need to Continue Treatments Long-Term?

Absolutely! Continuing your microneedling treatments over the long term is crucial to maintaining and enhancing the effects.

While microneedling can deliver fantastic initial results, maintenance treatments are key for ensuring these benefits last long-term.

Once your skin has shown significant improvement (thanks to the benefits of microneedling), you won’t need to commit to monthly appointments anymore.

To optimize this outcome, aim for a routine of two or three sessions every year to help preserve and further enhance your skin health and boost those precious looks.

Need additional treatments? You can always schedule appointments with your dermatologist or get an expert beautician to help you.

Keep in mind that all is not foolproof…

In fact, several factors – skin type, lifestyle, and age – control the frequency of your maintenance treatments in mindmay, so your results may vary considerably …

If you’re unsure of anything, speak with your dermatologist to create a personalized treatment plan to address your concerns…

How Long Does A Microneedling Treatment Last?

The average patient will only need two or three additional treatment appointments a year to keep their skin conditions at bay.

But if you feel a surge of age-related skin concerns, which is quite normal as people age, you may want to get more maintenance treatments.

Sadly, nothing is permanent. But the good part is you won’t need as many clinic appointments after your initial sessions.

The journey towards healthier, more radiant skin with microneedling is not an overnight expedition but a gradual process. That said, it’s vital not to over-zealously engage in this treatment.

Skin needling helps with skin cell turnover resulting in cell growth and the production of collagen fibers that help you achieve amazing skin.

But how long can you expect the results of using a microneedling pen to last?

What Are The Risks Of Microneedling Too Often? (3 Examples)

As a beauty expert with years of experience in microneedling, let me share 3 risks associated with overuse:

#1 Temporary Redness and Swelling

This is a typical reaction, usually subsiding within 48 hours. However, excessive microneedling sessions can intensify these symptoms, potentially leading to skin discomfort.

#2 Broken Capillaries and Deeper Skin Problems

If the needle lengths used are inappropriate or treatments are too frequent, complications like broken capillaries may arise.

Overuse can damage the sub-dermal layers of your skin, resulting in an unnatural, ‘plastic’ appearance.

Dermatologist Macrene Alexiades warns of this, cautioning against “repeated microneedle insults” [3].

#3 Exacerbation of Existing Skin Concerns

Certain superficial skin issues, such as active acne, can worsen following the treatment.

I’ve noticed a temporary increase in acne breakouts post-procedure. However, these are usually short-lived and clear up spontaneously.

My Experience in Managing The Timing of My Microneedling Sessions

To be entirely honest, I have had some acne breakouts after skin needling. Thankfully, it didn’t last long and cleared up on its own.

To prevent any “skin disaster”, I like to give my skin a rest for the first 48 hours. After the 48 hours are over, I can put on makeup just without any issues.

I found this clever routine to always – without fail – do the job well… Give it a try!

Here is a full video on microneedling, what to expect, and how to prepare yourself for the appointment.

Next, check out some frequently asked questions in the next section!

FAQs

1. Is Microneedling Good For Your Skin?

Absolutely. Microneedling treatment is great for smoothing out uneven skin tone, getting rid of dark spots, and helping fade out acne scars.

2. Can Microneedle Be Combined With Other Treatments?

Yes! Several treatments can be combined, with microneedling. Some of these treatments include intense pulsed light (IPL), chemical peels, radiofrequency, platelet-rich plasma injections, and subcision.

3. What Age Should You Start Microneedling?

Start microneedling in your 20s to boost the collagen production in your skin and get the skin used to producing collagen over time by itself. This treatment should not be used by people below the age of 16.

4. Is It Possible To Overdo Microneedling?

Sadly, yes.
Microneedling your face more than once or twice a week could be damaging the skin instead of making it better. It is also unsafe if you’re using too much pressure and not keeping your roller clean.

Conclusion

Thankfully, this guide helped answer your question of how often should you microneedle and some preparation tips. Microneedling has so many benefits, and I can vouch for its effectiveness.

These minimally invasive treatments are kind to my dry skin, and just days after treatment, I can see my skin looking healthier and so much better.

I love getting it done at the doctor’s, but if I’m low on time, I trust my handy derma roller to upkeep the benefits of skin needling.

Next, don’t forget to schedule an appointment with your aesthetician, and use professional microneedling devices as it’s sure to bring forth the best results for your skin’s health.

Needless to say, I am a fan for life! And if you want the best for your skin, I suggest you get some of those micro-injuries too.

How often do you microneedle? Let us know below!

Resources:

1. Konstantinovsky M. Microneedling at Home: How Often Should You Do It For Benefits? [Internet]. Healthline. 2019. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/microneedling-at-home#TOC_TITLE_HDR_1

2. Dr. Peterson Pierre Archives – Page 3 of 15 [Internet]. Arlene Howard PR. 2020 [cited 2023 Jun 9]. Available from: https://arlenehowardpr.com/proven-results/dr-peterson-pierre/page/3/

3. ELLE.com. Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Microneedling [Internet]. ELLE. ELLE; 2017. Available from: https://www.elle.com/beauty/makeup-skin-care/a12773502/microneedling-faq-facts-cost/…