Patient Information – Microneedling

How to prepare

• Prior to your microneedling session, please observe the following:
  • Avoid unprotected sun exposure or sunburn for at least 2 weeks prior to treatment.
  • No waxing, depilatory creams or electrolysis hair removal in the area being treated 5-7 days prior to treatment.
  • Use of retinols should be stopped for 5-7 days prior to treatment.
  • Use of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), beta hydroxy acid (BHA), glycolic acid, vitamin C products, scrubs and exfoliants should be stopped for 3 days prior to treatment.
• On the day of your appointment, please observe the following:
  • Come in with no makeup on and a washed face. Face cleansing wipes and/or facial cleanser will be available if needed.
  • Avoid having caffeine or taking anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
  • Do not shave any areas to be treated to avoid skin irritation.

What to expect during your appointment

• Microneedling sessions typically consist of the following:
  • You will be lying on a padded massage table and BioMat^® for the duration of the treatment. Lidocaine cream will be applied to the treatment area for 20-30 minutes to numb the skin. After the numbing cream has taken effect, the skin will be wiped clean with cleansing facial wipes. Microneedling with hyaluronic acid will then be performed using a sterile, single-use needle head. Once microneedling is complete, anti-aging apple stem cell serum or the serum appropriate for your skin type will be massaged into the skin. To help alleviate any irritation, a cooling herbal face mask will then be applied. If applicable, the treatment will conclude with LED light therapy to further promote collagen synthesis and reduce inflammation. Detailed aftercare instructions will be provided at the end of treatment.

What to expect after treatment

• After microneedling:
  • The skin may be pink or red and flushed in appearance and feel warm in a similar way to a moderate sunburn. You may also experience skin tightness and itchiness and mild sensitivity to touch on the area being treated. It is anticipated that the skin’s redness will subside after 12-24 hours following treatment. There may be minor flaking, peeling or dryness of the skin in some people in certain areas which were treated, with scab formation in rare cases. Crusting, discomfort, bruising, pinpoint bleeding and swelling may also occur. 

Aftercare instructions to reduce the risk of complications and ensure the best results

• After treatment on the day of your appointment:
  • Avoid exercise as sweat can cause irritation.
  • Do not use facial soap. You can wash your face with just cool water if needed.
  • Apply hyaluronic acid when you feel dry and before you go to bed.
• For the next 1-2 days following treatment:
  • Avoid oils and only apply hydrophilic products such as hyaluronic acid.
  • No makeup.
  • Avoid sun exposure. After 24 hours, always use a mineral sunscreen to protect from sun damage.
• For the next 3 days following treatment:
  • Avoid recreational water activities such as saunas, hot steam showers, swimming and the ocean.
  • Do not use alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), beta hydroxy acid (BHA), glycolic acid, vitamin C products, scrubs or exfoliants.
  • Do not use retinols.

Please feel to reach out to us via phone or email if you have any questions before your appointment!

(619) 289-7757

info@tara-acupuncture.com