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