Microneedling aftercare FAQs: what you can and can't do after skin needling

Our clinicians explain what to do after skin needling for the best results

Skin microneedling is a fantastic treatment for improving skin texture, reducing scars, rejuvenating skin, and boosting collagen production — but what you do afterwards to ensure proper aftercare for your skin is just as important as the treatment itself. Your skin is in a sensitive state after microneedling, and the right aftercare can make all the difference in how well it heals and how good the results look.

In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what you can and can’t do after skin needling, including:

• What skincare products you can safely use on your face.
• How soon you can wear makeup, exercise, or exfoliate.
• When it’s safe to combine microneedling with Botox or other treatments.

By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to follow for post-skin needling care so you can protect your skin and enjoy the glowing, rejuvenated results you’re looking for.

Here's what you need to do after your microneedling treatment

After microneedling, your skin is in healing mode, and the way you care for it can make all the difference. From washing your face to exercising, knowing what’s safe to do — and when — helps protect your skin afterward and maximise the benefits of micro needling skin treatments. Here’s how to look after your skin post-treatment.

Can I wash my face after skin needling?

Yes, you can wash your face after skin needling, but timing and technique matter. We recommend waiting 12-24 hours to give your skin a chance to begin its natural healing process. When it’s time to cleanse, stick to a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser and avoid anything harsh, like hot water, scrubbing, or foaming cleansers.

Cleansing is an important step in taking care of your skin and keeping your skin free from bacteria and skin irritation. Be gentle — pat your skin dry instead of rubbing — and follow up with hydrating products to help it feel soothed and refreshed.

What can I put on my face after microneedling?

Post-treatment, your skin will love calming, hydrating products. 

Use a gentle moisturiser or hyaluronic acid serum to boost hydration and support your dry skin as it recovers. After your microneedling treatment, we recommend using Hydra-Vital Factor K, which is a phenomenal moisturiser that’ll give your skin everything it needs to replenish after treatment.

On the other hand, here’s what to avoid putting on your face following microneedling:

• Active ingredients like retinol, AHAs, or BHAs, as these can disrupt your healing process.
• Heavy or occlusive products that could clog your pores.

And don’t forget SPF! Your skin is extra sensitive to UV exposure after microneedling, so applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen (minimum SPF 30) every morning is non-negotiable. This protects your skin from sun damage and ensures the results of your treatment last.

If you’re targeting specific concerns like acne or fine lines, personalised product recommendations can further support your skin’s healing process. For personalised expert advice, Book a microneedling consultation at our Melbourne Clinic today!

How long after skin needling can I exercise?

Give yourself 24-72 hours before diving back into your workout routine. Excessive sweating too soon after a microneedling procedure can irritate your skin and prolong redness or sensitivity. Activities like high-intensity workouts, saunas, or hot yoga are best avoided until your skin has settled.

If you’re eager to get moving, try gentle walks or low-impact exercises that won’t make you sweat excessively. Keeping your skin cool and calm during this time gives it the best chance to heal and glow.

Can you wear makeup after skin needling?

It’s best to skip makeup immediately after skin needling. For a day or two after, your skin may be more vulnerable to irritation or infection, so applying makeup too soon can clog pores and slow down healing.

Give your skin at least 48 hours after the procedure before you reach for foundation or concealer. Once it’s safe, stick to lightweight, non-comedogenic products and make sure your brushes and sponges are thoroughly cleaned. This is especially important for those treating areas like hyperpigmentation or large pores, where healing needs to be prioritised.

Can you exfoliate after skin needling?

No exfoliation for now — your skin needs time to heal. Exfoliating too early can disrupt the repair process and leave your skin feeling irritated.

We recommend waiting 7-10 days before using scrubs or exfoliating acids like AHAs or BHAs. Once your skin has fully recovered, gentle exfoliation can help your skin maintain the glow from your treatment. For those targeting issues like oily skin, it’s essential to follow proper microneedling aftercare to ensure your results last.

Can you use retinol after skin needling?

Retinol can be amazing for your skin, but it’s far too strong immediately after microneedling. Using it too soon can cause redness and irritation, so give it a rest for 5-7 days.

When your skin is ready, ease retinol back into your routine gradually — start with 2-3 nights a week and monitor how your skin responds.

Can you get Botox after microneedling?

Yes, but timing is everything. It’s important to wait 1-2 weeks after skin needling before getting Botox so your skin has enough time to heal.

Spacing out these treatments ensures that both work effectively and reduce any risks of irritation or interference.

Can you get microneedling after Botox?

You can, but it’s all about waiting for the right time. Microneedling can safely be performed 1-2 weeks after Botox to avoid any interference between treatments.

Spacing out these treatments allows each to work effectively without stressing your skin. If you’re addressing concerns like stretch marks or looking for all-over skin rejuvenation treatments, proper timing ensures you’ll get the most out of both treatments.

Does microneedling aftercare help with skin cell renewal?

Yes, microneedling triggers skin cell renewal by creating tiny punctures that stimulate your skin’s natural healing process. This boosts collagen production and encourages new cell growth, which helps improve texture and tone over time. Proper microneedling aftercare — like using hydrating products and avoiding harsh ingredients — ensures your skin heals beautifully and achieves the best results.

Will my skin peel or shed dead skin after microneedling?

Microneedling doesn’t cause a full peel, but you may notice mild flaking or the shedding of dead skin cells a few days after treatment. This is part of your skin’s natural renewal process. To support healing, avoid scrubs or exfoliants and stick to gentle, nourishing products that keep your skin hydrated and calm.

Need more aftercare tips or advice on which skin care products to use or avoid? You know who to ask.

Caring for your skin after microneedling doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require the right guidance. By following these aftercare tips — avoiding makeup, exercise, or exfoliation too soon — you’ll protect your skin’s healing process and get the most out of your treatment. By the way, there’s more to learn: check out our full guide on everything you need to know about skin needling aftercare. Our Melbourne clinic also offers a range of treatments to help reduce other skin concerns, such as dark circles,