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- info@apulparikh.co.uk
- Mon - Fri: 10:00 - 18:00
Microneedling is a highly effective skin rejuvenation treatment designed to stimulate collagen production and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin. By creating controlled micro-injuries to the skin’s surface, it triggers a natural healing response that leads to smoother, firmer, and more radiant skin.
However, because the procedure temporarily compromises the skin barrier, it is crucial to follow the correct aftercare guidelines, including when it is safe to wear makeup.
If you would like to book a Microneedling treatment with our experienced skincare professionals, contact our team to book a consultation.
After a microneedling treatment, your skin will be particularly sensitive as it undergoes the healing process. Most skin specialists recommend waiting at least 48 hours before applying any makeup. During this period, the skin is in its most vulnerable state, and applying cosmetics could introduce bacteria, clog pores, and interfere with the healing process.
In the first 24 hours, your skin may appear red, similar to a mild sunburn, and feel slightly tender. You may also experience some dryness or flaking as the skin begins to heal. It is best to allow the skin to breathe and focus on hydrating it with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturiser.
By day two or three, most of the initial redness and sensitivity should subside, making it safer to apply mineral-based or non-comedogenic makeup, which is less likely to irritate the skin.
Applying makeup too soon after microneedling can pose several risks that may hinder the healing process and compromise your results. Since the skin barrier is temporarily weakened, introducing makeup products—especially those containing fragrances, preservatives, or other irritants—can lead to unwanted reactions. Some of the key risks include:
Infection:
The micro-channels created during microneedling take time to close, making the skin more susceptible to bacterial contamination. Using makeup brushes, sponges, or even fingers to apply products can introduce bacteria that may lead to breakouts or infections.
Clogged Pores:
Many makeup products contain occlusive ingredients that can block pores, trapping bacteria and debris within the skin. This can result in post-treatment breakouts, irritation, or even prolonged redness and swelling.
Delayed Healing:
The presence of artificial chemicals, preservatives, and dyes in makeup can interfere with the skin’s natural repair process. This may extend the recovery time and diminish the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
Increased Sensitivity:
Freshly treated skin is more reactive to external substances. Applying makeup too early may lead to excessive dryness, itching, or inflammation, making the healing phase more uncomfortable.
To minimise these risks, it is advisable to follow professional recommendations and allow the skin sufficient time to recover before reintroducing makeup into your routine.
Beyond makeup application, there are several key aspects to consider in the days following your microneedling treatment to ensure optimal healing and results:
Cleansing Your Skin:
For the first 24 hours, it is best to use only lukewarm water to rinse your face. From day two, you can begin using a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser, avoiding any harsh exfoliants or active ingredients like retinol and AHAs for at least a week.
Sun Exposure:
The skin is more susceptible to UV damage after microneedling, so it is essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every day, even if you are indoors. Direct sun exposure should be avoided for at least a week to prevent hyperpigmentation.
Exercise and Sweating:
Avoid intense exercise, saunas, and hot showers for the first 48 hours, as excessive sweating can lead to irritation and increase the risk of bacterial infection.
Skincare Routine:
After three to five days, you can gradually reintroduce mild serums and hydrating skincare products, ensuring they are free from harsh chemicals that could irritate the healing skin.
Full Recovery:
While most people see visible improvements within a week, the full collagen remodelling process can take four to six weeks, with optimal results appearing after multiple sessions.
To ensure you get the best possible results from your microneedling treatments, follow these tips:
Consider Microneedling with Growth Factors
One of the unique features of Microneedling with Dr Apul Parikh is the addition of Growth Factors. Growth factors are proteins naturally produced by skin cells and responsible for maintaining homeostasis, which helps you keep your skin alive and healthy.
When applied to the skin, they function as healing agents. They boost collagen synthesis, improve elasticity, help with acne scars and pigmentation & are also used for skin rejuvenation. Growth factors are a great option if you are looking for prolonged, healthier-looking skin.
For more information on this type of treatment, read our guide on Microneedling with Growth Factors.
Consider Exosomes with your Microneedling
Dr Parikh also offers Microneedling with Exosomes at his London clinic. Exosomes are the signalling messengers from stem cells and have become the centrepiece of cutting-edge Microneedling treatments.
With regards to maximising results, they have a huge impact on skin quality and can be used to help with skin texture, laxity, scarring, pigmentation and enhanced rejuvenation.
Follow Your Practitioner’s Aftercare Instructions
Avoid sun exposure, refrain from using harsh skincare products, and keep your skin hydrated with a gentle moisturiser. For a more detailed breakdown of what is expected following your treatment, read our Aftercare Guide for Microneedling.
Use the Right Products
After microneedling, your skin is more absorbent. This is the perfect time to use serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or peptides to enhance the effects of the treatment.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants, adequate hydration, and regular exercise can help improve your skin’s natural healing process.
If you are considering microneedling, it is important to plan your post-treatment care accordingly. While it may be tempting to wear makeup immediately after your session, waiting at least 48 hours allows your skin to heal properly and reduces the risk of irritation and infection. For the best results, always follow the guidance of a qualified skin specialist who can provide tailored advice based on your skin type and treatment plan.
At Apul Parikh Clinic in London, we offer expert microneedling treatments designed to rejuvenate your skin with minimal downtime. If you would like to learn more about how microneedling can benefit you and receive personalised aftercare recommendations, book a consultation with our registered skin specialists today.
Monday - Friday
10:00am – 18:00pm
Weekends
10 mins via District & Circle Line from South Kensington to London Victoria.
8 mins via District & Circle Line from St James Park to London Victoria.
17 mins via Victoria Line from Oxford Circus to London Victoria.
8 mins via Victoria Line from Green Park to London Victoria.
22 mins via Bakerloo & District Line from Lambeth North to London Victoria.
10 min walk from Sloane Square Station
10 min walk from Knightsbridge Station
5 min walk from Victoria Station
3 mins via Victoria Line from Vauxhall to London Victoria.
Dr Apul Parikh Clinic,
7 Grosvenor Gardens,
Victoria
London
SW1W 0BD