Microneedling Aftercare: What to Do (and What to Avoid) for Best Results

Day After Microneedling

Essential Microneedling Aftercare Rules

1. Wear Sunscreen Daily

Microneedling temporarily makes your skin more sensitive to UV damage. Sun exposure during the healing phase can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) [3].

• Use SPF 30 or higher
• Apply daily, even on cloudy days
• Mineral sunscreen is often better tolerated post-treatment as it sits on top of the skin

Sun protection is one of the most important steps for preventing pigmentation issues and ensuring long-term results [4].

2. Avoid Makeup Temporarily

Right after microneedling, your skin has open micro-channels. Makeup can clog these channels or introduce bacteria, leading to breakouts or infection.

• Wait at least 8 hours after at-home microneedling
• Wait 24 hours after professional treatments

3. Skip Pools, Saunas, and Ocean Water

Chlorine, salt, heat, and bacteria can irritate healing skin and increase the risk of infection.

After at-home microneedling with the Banisher 3.0, most people can resume these activities after 8 to 12 hours, but waiting 24 hours is safer.

4. Use Vitamin C 

Vitamin C supports collagen production and brightening. Studies show better outcomes when vitamin C is applied after microneedling, as the micro-channels allow for deeper penetration and vitamin c is essential to activate the enzymes to create collagen [5].

• Use a stabilized vitamin c serum 
• Patch test first if you have sensitive skin
• Mild tingling is normal but should not be painful

The Banish Vitamin C Serum is formulated with hydrating ingredients like glycerin to reduce irritation during post-microneedling healing, making it an ideal pairing after microneedling.

5. Moisturize and Support the Skin Barrier

Microneedling temporarily disrupts the skin barrier, leading to increased transepidermal water loss. Hydration helps speed recovery and maintains skin elasticity [6].

• Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers
• Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides
• Avoid heavy occlusives immediately after treatment to allow the skin to "breathe"

6. Avoid Strong Actives

For the first 24-48 hours, avoid ingredients that can cause excessive irritation to the newly treated skin:

• Retinol and Retinoids
• AHA/BHA exfoliants (Glycolic, Salicylic acid)
• Benzoyl peroxide
• Synthetic fragrances

You can typically restart your retinol routine after 24-48 hours, depending on your skin's sensitivity levels.

7. Space Out Aggressive Treatments

Avoid stacking microneedling with other intensive procedures like chemical peels, laser treatments, or microdermabrasion. Too much inflammation can slow healing and increase pigmentation risk. Space these treatments at least 1 week apart or follow professional guidance.

Quick Microneedling Aftercare Recap

• Wear SPF daily to prevent UV damage and PIH.
• No makeup for 8–24 hours to avoid clogging micro-channels.
• Avoid pools and saunas to reduce infection risk.
• Use gentle vitamin C and moisturizer to support collagen and the skin barrier.
• Avoid strong actives for 24–48 hours to prevent irritation.

FAQ

Can I wash my face after microneedling?
Yes. You should wash your face the next morning using a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh washcloths.

Can I exercise after microneedling?
It is best to wait at least 24 hours before intense exercise. Sweat and heat can irritate the skin and potentially lead to breakouts while the micro-channels are closing.

How long until I see results?

• Glow: 1-2 days as the skin heals and plumps.
• Texture improvement: 1-3 months as new collagen matures.
• Scar remodeling: 3-6 months of consistent treatment.

How can I speed up healing?
Keep skin hydrated, avoid touching your face, and use sunscreen religiously.

In Conclusion

Microneedling results don’t come from the treatment alone, they come from proper aftercare and consistency. Microneedling with the Banisher 3.0, paired with the right aftercare, gives your skin the best chance to heal, build collagen, and improve scars safely over time. 

References

1. Jaiswal, S., et al. (2024). Microneedling in Dermatology: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus, 16(1).
2. Singh, A., & Yadav, S. (2016). Microneedling: Advances and widening horizons. Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 7(4), 244-254.
3. Ehsani, A., et al. (2025). Microneedling side effects and complications. Iranian Journal of Dermatology.
4. Iriarte, C., et al. (2017). Review of applications of microneedling in dermatology. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 10, 289-298.
5. Kim, J., et al. (2025). A serum containing vitamins C, E, and ferulic acid enhanced skin photoaging sign correction after microneedling. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
6. Nair, P. A., & Tandel, J. (2021). Microneedling: A means of collagen induction therapy. Journal of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery, 25(2), 100-105.
7. Fabbrocini, G., et al. (2019). Skin needling and skin rejuvenation: A review. Dermatologic Therapy.
8. Atiyeh, B. S., et al. (2021). Microneedling: percutaneous collagen induction (PCI) therapy for management of scars and photoaged skin. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 45, 1-14.