Microneedling Patient Information

How to Prepare

Before your microneedling appointment:

• Avoid unprotected sun exposure or sunburn for at least 2 weeks before treatment.
• Avoid waxing, depilatory creams or electrolysis in the treatment area for 5-7 days before treatment.
• Stop using retinol products for 5-7 days before treatment.
• Stop using alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), glycolic acid, vitamin C products, scrubs and exfoliants for 3 days before treatment.

On the day of your appointment:

• Arrive with a clean face and no makeup. Cleansing wipes are available if needed.
• Avoid excessive caffeine before your appointment.
• Do not shave the treatment area on the day of your appointment to help minimize irritation.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Microneedling sessions typically include the following:

• You will lie on a padded treatment table with the BioMat® during your session.
• Lidocaine cream will be applied to the treatment area for approximately 20–30 minutes to help numb the skin.
• Once the numbing cream has taken effect, the skin will be cleansed and prepared for treatment.
• Microneedling will then be performed with hyaluronic acid using a sterile, single-use needle head.
• After microneedling, an apple stem cell serum or another serum appropriate for your skin type will be applied to the skin.
• A cooling herbal face mask will then be used to help soothe the treatment area.
• If included in your treatment, LED light therapy may be used afterward to support skin recovery and address inflammation.
• Detailed aftercare instructions will be reviewed at the end of your appointment.

What to Expect After Treatment

After microneedling, the treated skin may appear pink or red and may feel warm, similar to a mild to moderate sunburn. You may also notice temporary tightness, dryness, itching or sensitivity.

Redness often improves within 12–24 hours, although this can vary. Some people may experience mild flaking or peeling as the skin recovers.

Less commonly, temporary swelling, bruising, pinpoint bleeding or small areas of crusting may occur.

Aftercare Instructions

On the day of your treatment:

• Avoid strenuous exercise, as sweat may irritate the treated skin.
• Avoid facial soap or cleansers. If needed, rinse your face gently with cool water.
• Apply hyaluronic acid as needed if your skin feels dry and again before bed.

For the next 1–2 days:

• Avoid oils and use only lightweight, water-based products such as hyaluronic acid.
• Avoid makeup.
• Minimize sun exposure. After 24 hours, use a gentle broad-spectrum sunscreen when outdoors, once the skin feels comfortable enough to tolerate it.

For the next 3 days:

• Avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot showers, swimming pools and ocean water.
• Avoid alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), glycolic acid, vitamin C products, scrubs and exfoliants.
• Avoid retinol products.

Learn more about our microneedling treatments.

If you have any questions after your treatment, please feel free to contact us by phone or email.

(619) 289-7757

info@tara-acupuncture.com