You’ve just had microneedling or a laser facial—amazing! Your skin is on its way to looking smoother, fresher, and more radiant.
But now comes the part that’s just as important as the treatment itself: how you care for your skin afterward.
So let’s talk about what to avoid after microneedling or a laser facial—because your skin deserves protection.
1. Skip Active Ingredients (for Now)
That means no:
- Retinoids (like Retin-A or retinol)
- AHAs and BHAs (glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid)
- Vitamin C (unless it’s super gentle and formulated for post-procedure use)
These powerful actives can be amazing in your regular routine—but right after a treatment? They’re too intense. Your skin barrier is in healing mode and needs calm, not stimulation.
Wait at least 5–7 days (or until your provider clears you) before reintroducing these ingredients.
2. Hold Off on Exfoliating
That includes:
- Scrubs or physical exfoliants
- Enzyme masks
- Cleansing brushes (like Clarisonic or similar)
- Exfoliating pads or toners
Your skin is already going through a natural exfoliation process after microneedling or laser resurfacing—especially if you notice flaking or light peeling. Let it do its thing. No need to speed it up.
3. Avoid Heavy Makeup (Especially Right After)
Your pores are open, your skin is sensitized, and the last thing it needs is a layer of full-coverage foundation or powder right away.
We recommend avoiding makeup for at least 24–48 hours after treatment.
4. Don’t Use Harsh or Fragranced Products
Steer clear of:
- Scented cleansers or toners
- Alcohol-based products
- Anything that makes your skin tingle or burn
Now’s the time for gentle, hydrating, fragrance-free skincare. Think: creamy cleansers, hyaluronic acid serums, ceramide-rich moisturizers, and calming balms.
If you’re ever unsure, just ask us—we’ll recommend post-treatment-safe options that support healing.
5. No Sauna, Steam Room, or Hot Yoga
Avoid intense heat and sweating for 48–72 hours post-treatment. Why? Because it can:
- Increase inflammation
- Worsen redness
- Irritate healing skin
Plus, sweat can carry bacteria into those freshly micro-channeled pores—not ideal while your skin’s barrier is still vulnerable.
6. Avoid Direct Sun Exposure (and Don’t Skip SPF!)
This is a big one. Your skin is more photosensitive after laser and microneedling treatments, so UV rays can:
- Slow down healing
- Cause pigmentation issues
- Undermine your results
Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, even if it’s cloudy or you’re mostly indoors. And if you’re outside? Wear a hat and skip the midday sun if possible.
So, What Should You Use After Treatment?
We’ve got you covered there too. Your post-treatment skincare should be:
- Simple
- Hydrating
- Barrier-supporting
Client faves include:
- Gentle cream cleanser
- Pure hyaluronic acid serum
- Ceramide-rich or peptide-packed moisturizer
- Broad-spectrum SPF (tinted or untinted)
Your skin just did some serious work. Now’s the time to protect and support it—not overwhelm it with actives or harsh products.
If you ever have questions about what’s safe to use after microneedling or a laser facial, reach out! We’re happy to review your current routine, make product swaps, or recommend calming skincare that aligns with your goals.
If you have any other questions, feel free to contact our clinic at 951-540-6524 for more advice or schedule a consultation.
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