Aftercare – Skin Needling
In order to obtain the best results from your Dermapen treatment it is important to adhere to the aftercare recommendations. As skin needling intentionally punctures the skin, it is important to take steps to protect your skin’s barrier as it heals. We will provide you with an aftercare pack to take home with you that includes skincare and instructions on when to apply it.
Immediate Aftercare
- A cool compress may be applied to the skin to help with any heat, swelling or redness. Avoid picking/scratching the skin at the dry/flaky stage. Instead, apply moisturizer 2-4 times per day.
- Avoid touching your face and wash your hands regularly.
- Avoid sun exposure for at least 3 weeks as you skin will be much more sensitive to sunlight in the several weeks post treatment. It is important to avoid direct and indirect sunlight. After 1-2 weeks post treatment, you may use a SPF30 or SPF50 sunscreen.
- Avoid ‘active’ skincare ingredients as your skin will be highly sensitive post treatment. Ingredients to avoid include retinol, AHAs and Vitamin C. You may return to using these ingredients 3-5 days post treatment.
- Avoid makeup 24-48 hours after your treatment. We may apply Lycogel foundation, however this is antibacterial and can assist in your recovery. It is important to allow the skin’s barrier to heal before introducing makeup to the skin. It is also important that the brushes etc. used to apply makeup are completely clean.
- Avoid sweat inducing activities including spas, saunas and high intensity exercise for 72 hours as it may allow bacteria to penetrate the skin.
- Avoid fake tanning for 2-3 weeks post treatment.
- Avoid medications or supplements such as Ibuprofen, Nurofen, Vitamin E and fish oil. Please consult your GP before stopping any medication.
- Use a gentle cleanser to assist with skin dryness.
- Use a cooling face mask to assist with rehydrating the skin.
- Drink plenty of water to assist with healing and to ensure the best results from your treatment.
What to Expect After your Dermapen Treatment
You may experience some redness and slight swelling to the area that has been treatment. You can expect your skin to feel warm to touch, similar to a mild sunburn sensation. This should resolve on its own within 1-2 days post treatment. After 3-5 days your skin may become dry and flaky due to the dead skin cells being stimulated upwards. Some clients may experience breakouts or peeling and this will take slightly longer to resolve. These side effects are normal and once this process is completed the skin will be soft and glowing.
Your Next Appointment
The benefits of skin needling treatment such as stimulating the body’s production of collagen and elastic, can continue for up to 12 weeks following your treatment. The number of treatments required to achieve your desired result will vary from person to person, and a succession of treatments may be recommended.