Microneedling Post-treatment Information for patients

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive controlled process of repeatedly puncturing the skin with tiny, sterile needles in order to encourage the body to start a natural wound healing response. The body begins to remodel and repair the injured scar tissue. 

The body will produce organised healthy dermal tissue including collagen and elastin.

What is Microneedling used for?

Microneedling can be used to improve the texture of the scar and can tighten loose scar tissue ultimately aiming to improve the appearance of scars.

Microneedling has also been seen to even out the altered pigment in scars, although everyone’s scars respond differently.

Please note: The procedure may not achieve the desired outcome of improved texture, tightening of loose skin, or change in colour. The procedure will not make the scar disappear.

How often will I have microneedling treatment?

4-6 sessions of microneedling are normally required and the treatments will be a minimum of 6 weeks apart.

It may take up to 3 months or more than one treatment before you notice an improvement.

If you are receiving other treatments e.g. laser therapy or LPG the down-time between treatments may vary.

What should I do after my treatment?

After your microneedling session you will be given a cooling gel to use.  You should use this gel immediately after the treatment and for the first 24 hours. Do not use anything other than the prescribed gel within the 24 hours.

After the initial 24 hour period, continue with a simple moisturiser 3-4 times daily.

Keep the treated area clean.

The skin on the treated area may peel or flake off after a couple of days, if this happens then keep the area clean and apply moisturiser.

If the treated area bleeds, wipe the blood using sterile gauze. Avoid scabbing.

Ice or gel packs may be used to ease discomfort and swelling in the area that has been treated.

You can bath and shower as normal but avoid hot water, saunas or swimming for 72 hours post treatment or until swelling and bleeding has resolved.

Avoid sweaty exercise for 72 hours post treatment or until the swelling and bleeding has resolved.

If you wear pressure garments, silicone or make up products you should wait for 72 hours before using them again.

Avoid sun exposure for 7 days post treatment and continue to use sun block on your scars.

If you experience any discomfort then simple painkillers can be used for the first 2 days.

What are the side effects?

Immediately after treatment your skin may feel warm and look red, similar to sunburn. The redness should improve 1- 2 days post treatment.

The treated area may be painful or feel tight for 1-3 days following the treatment.

You may have some pinpoint bleeding at time of treatment but should not require a dressing. 

Your skin pigment may change temporarily or permanently; it may get lighter or darker.

There is a small risk of infection, this can be minimised by keeping the treated area clean and following post-treatment advice.

What should I do if I am concerned?

If you are concerned that the area may be infected or a wound has formed you can call the Burns Unit on 0203 315 2500.

If you are concerned that your scar has worsened or you have any questions regarding returning to your normal scar management regime then you can e-mail the Burns Therapists on chelwest.burnstherapy.cw@nhs.net

Please contact your burns therapist if you have any concerns or questions.

Contact information