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Aftercare guide

Microneedling Aftercare

Simple skincare steps for the days after microneedling, what redness and flaking to expect, and when to contact the clinic.

Straight after treatment

Your skin will be red and warm for the rest of the day, a little like mild sunburn. Most people are comfortable out in public within 24–48 hours.

  • Cleanse gently with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser to remove any residue.
  • Use the serum John recommends and a bland, non-comedogenic moisturiser. There’s no need to overdo it.
  • No make-up for 24 hours.
  • A cold compress for 15 minutes at a time can ease warmth and swelling.

The first 48 hours

  • Keep your routine clean and simple: gentle cleanser, recommended serum, bland moisturiser.
  • Avoid harsh cleansers, exercise, saunas, swimming and direct sun.

The first week

  • No active skincare — retinol, acids (AHAs and BHAs) or vitamin C — for five to seven days.
  • Don’t scrub, exfoliate or pick at any flaking. Let the skin shed naturally.
  • Drink plenty of water to help your skin heal.

What’s normal

  • Marked redness on the day, then pinkness for one to two days.
  • Warmth, tightness and mild swelling on the first day.
  • Light flaking as the skin renews.
  • Occasionally a breakout in the days afterwards.

Longer term

  • Wear SPF 50 every day for at least two weeks, and limit sun exposure for around a month.
  • Stick to a gentle skincare routine that suits your skin type. John can recommend products.
  • Attend any follow-up appointments so John can assess your progress.

Contact the clinic if…

  • Redness or swelling that gets worse after 48 hours, or redness that persists.
  • Pus-filled spots or other signs of infection.
  • Any darkening of the skin.
  • A cold sore flare, if you’re prone to them.
  • Anything else that worries you.
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