SkinPen® Microneedling Pre-Care & Post-Care Instructions
Pre-Treatment Instructions
To ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of complications, please follow the guidelines below at least 5–7 days prior to treatment:
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds for 10–14 days. No sunburns or active tanning.
- Discontinue retinoids (Retin-A, Tretinoin), AHAs/BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, and other exfoliating agents.
- Avoid waxing, depilatory creams, or electrolysis.
- No injectable treatments (Botox, fillers) for at least 14 days before microneedling.
- Stop using blood-thinning medications or supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) unless prescribed.
- Let us know if you have a history of cold sores. You may be prescribed an antiviral prior to treatment.
- Arrive with clean skin. No makeup, lotion, or sunscreen.
- For patients with darker skin tone, e.g., Skin Type IV or above, start Tranexamic Acid (TXA) 7% serum (3–4 weeks before microneedling). Use twice daily on clean face and discontinue use 24 hours prior to microneedling based on skin response.
Note: Benefits of prepping your skin with TXA:
- Inhibit melanin overproduction and calm active pigmentation
- Reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) risk
- Improve skin clarity and tone uniformity during healing
What to Expect During Your SkinPen® Treatment
- The treatment takes about 30–60 minutes.
- A topical numbing cream will be applied before treatment for comfort.
- You may experience a mild pricking sensation and temporary redness or pinpoint bleeding.
- Most patients describe the feeling as similar to light sandpaper being moved across the skin.
Post-Treatment Instructions
First 24 Hours:
- Redness, warmth, tightness, and sensitivity are normal.
- Do not touch, wash, or apply anything other than SkinPen Hyaluronic Acid Serum or SkinPen® Rescue Calming Complex to the treated area for 12–24 hours.
- Avoid exercise, saunas, swimming, and activities that induce sweating.
- Sleep on a clean pillowcase, preferably on your back.
24–72 Hours After:
- Cleanse with Alastin Calming Cleanser or a gentle facial cleanser that does not contain harsh chemical ingredients.
- Apply only non-harsh chemical skin care products (e.g., Alastin Pre-Post Care Skin Care Products).
- Continue to avoid sun exposure and always wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
- Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours. Mineral-based makeup can be used after 24 hours.
- Do not pick, rub, or exfoliate the skin.
3–7 Days After:
- Mild flaking or peeling may occur—this is normal.
- Continue gentle skincare and hydration.
- Avoid retinoids and exfoliants until fully healed.
When to Contact Us
Please contact our office if you experience:
- Severe pain, prolonged redness or swelling
- Signs of infection (pus, excessive warmth, fever)
- Cold sore outbreak
Recommended Treatment Plan
For optimal results, we recommend:
- A series of 4–6 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart
- Maintenance treatments every 4–6 months
Enhancements for Optimal Results
Exosome Complex Add-On:
- Boosts collagen and elastin production for enhanced anti-aging effects
- Accelerates skin healing and reduces inflammation
- Improves skin texture, tone, and hydration for a more radiant glow
- Reduces post-treatment downtime
- Highly recommended for those seeking maximum rejuvenation results
Alastin Pre- and Post-Care Products:
- Prepares the skin for treatment by removing damaged proteins and clearing the skin environment
- Enhances skin’s ability to recover quickly after microneedling
- Helps reduce redness and irritation
- Promotes longer-lasting and more noticeable results
- Ideal for all skin types to improve treatment outcomes and comfort