CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR: What to Expect Before, During, and After Microneedling
Microneedling is one of those treatments that sounds a little intense—but delivers serious results. If you’re curious about what actually happens during a session (& how your skin feels afterward), this guide is for you. We’re walking you through what to expect before, during, & after your microneedling treatment—no surprises, just great skin ahead.
Before Your Appointment
Prep starts a few days before your appointment. You’ll want to baby your skin a bit so it’s ready for treatment:
Avoid retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, & exfoliants for 3–5 days pre-treatment
Skip sun exposure or tanning to prevent sensitivity
No active breakouts or open wounds in the treatment area
Come to your appointment with clean, makeup-free skin
We’ll do a quick consultation beforehand to make sure microneedling is right for your skin goals, whether you're targeting acne scars, fine lines, texture, or overall tone.
During the Treatment
Microneedling uses a device with tiny, sterile needles to create micro-injuries in the skin—stimulating collagen & elastin production. Don’t worry—it sounds scarier than it feels!
Here’s what the process looks like:
We apply a numbing cream to keep you comfortable
The device glides across your skin in sections, targeting your specific concerns
You may feel light pressure or a scratchy sensation, but it’s typically very tolerable
The whole treatment usually takes 30–45 minutes
You may leave looking a little pink—like a mild sunburn—but most clients say it feels more warm or tight than painful.
Aftercare & What to Expect
Right after your treatment, your skin may be red, flushed, & slightly swollen. That’s completely normal & a good sign that the healing process has begun.
Here’s what to expect post-treatment:
Day 1–2: Redness & sensitivity
Day 3–5: Possible flaking or light peeling as dead skin sheds
Day 6–7: Skin feels smoother, looks brighter, & starts to glow
Aftercare Tips:
Avoid makeup, sweat, & sun exposure for 24–48 hours
Use only gentle, hydrating products—we’ll give you a post-care kit
Apply SPF religiously once you’re cleared to go back in the sun
Skip active ingredients like retinoids or exfoliants for about a week
When Will I See Results?
Most clients notice visible improvement within 1–2 weeks—but the full benefits build over time as collagen production continues. For optimal results, we recommend a series of 3–6 treatments, spaced about 4–6 weeks apart.
Is Microneedling Right for You?
If you’re looking for smoother texture, tighter pores, fewer fine lines, & a refreshed glow, microneedling might be your new best friend. It’s safe for most skin types & can be customized for your unique concerns.
Ready to book your first session or talk through your skin goals? Our team is here to answer every question & make sure you feel confident every step of the way.
