A complete pre and post-procedure guide for SkinPen microneedling patients. Learn what to avoid before treatment, how to use your Lift HA Serum and Rescue Calming Complex, and what to expect during your 4-day recovery window.
SkinPen is the first FDA-approved microneedling device, and at Elite Skin & Body Care in Houston, it's one of our most requested treatments for acne scars, fine lines, stretch marks, and overall skin rejuvenation. Following the instructions below before and after your appointment protects your skin, speeds recovery, and maximizes collagen-building results.
Learn more about the treatment on our SkinPen® Microneedling service page.
Avoid sun exposure/burns 24 hours prior to treatment.
Discontinue use of retinoids 12 hours prior to treatment.
You should not have an active breakout, active cold sores, or open lesions. If this occurs, your microneedling treatment should be rescheduled.
Allow at least 12 hours after autoimmune therapies before having a microneedling treatment.
Wait 6 months following isotretinoin (Accutane) use.
Skin types Fitzpatrick IV–VI: pigment may darken prior to lightening.
Wait at least:
48 hours before or after Botox treatment to have a microneedling treatment.
1 week before or after any fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, etc.
1 month before or after laser treatments such as IPL, VBeam, etc., or chemical peels such as Vitalize, Rejuvenize, etc., or Microdermabrasion treatments.
ONLY use the Lift HA Serum for the next 24 hours.
After 24 hours you may rinse your face ONLY with water until Day 4.
ONLY use the Rescue Calming Complex for Day 2 and 3.
Do NOT use any other skincare products (cleansers, moisturizers, or sunblock) until Day 4.
On Day 4:
AM: Use a gentle cleanser and a zinc oxide sunblock, and continue using the Rescue Calming Complex and Lift HA Serum if available.
PM: Use a gentle cleanser, and continue using the Rescue Calming Complex and Lift HA Serum if available.
Note: Spot test products before applying all over the face. If you feel any burning or tingling, wait 24 hours and try again. Continue to use the Rescue Calming Complex until then.
Avoid exercise for 3 days following the procedure.
No sun exposure for 3 days.
Do not apply sunscreen or makeup onto skin until Day 4.
When targeting specific concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, or acne scarring, shedding and flaking may occur, as well as prolonged redness lasting longer than 2-3 days. If the problem persists longer than 4 days, please call our office immediately.
Day 1: Mild to moderate redness and swelling, similar to a sunburn. Only Lift HA Serum should be applied.
Day 2: Some persistent redness and swelling may be present. Only Rescue Calming Complex should be applied.
Day 3: Most redness, bruising, and swelling is almost gone. You may experience some dry skin and flakiness. Only Rescue Calming Complex should be applied.
Day 4: Return to normal appearance while using gentle skincare, and if possible, avoid makeup. Continue applying the remaining Rescue Calming Complex.
Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries that stimulate your skin's natural healing process, triggering new collagen and elastin production. Results continue to improve for weeks after each session. For acne scars and deeper concerns, a series of 3–6 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart typically delivers the best outcomes.
Microneedling also pairs well with other services in our menu. Consider adding Celluma LED Light Therapy to calm post-treatment redness, or schedule a HydraFacial® between sessions for deep hydration.
If you have any questions or concerns before or after your treatment, please do not hesitate to contact us:
Call: 281-251-2225
Email: spa@eliteskinandbodycare.com
Visit: 10927 Louetta Rd, Suite 170, Houston, TX 77070
Ready to book? Schedule your SkinPen microneedling consultation with the Elite Skin & Body Care team today.
How long should I wait between microneedling and Botox or fillers?
Wait at least 48 hours before or after Botox, and a full week before or after dermal fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane. For laser treatments and chemical peels, wait a full month.
Is redness and flaking normal after SkinPen microneedling?
Yes. Day 1 redness and mild swelling are expected, similar to a sunburn. Flaking may appear around days 3-4. If redness persists past 4 days, call our office immediately.
Why can't I use my regular skincare products after microneedling?
Your skin barrier is temporarily compromised after microneedling. Active ingredients and even sunscreen can irritate freshly treated skin. Use only the Lift HA Serum and Rescue Calming Complex until Day 4.
When can I exercise after microneedling?
Avoid all exercise for 3 full days after your treatment. Sweating during this window can irritate your skin and increase the risk of infection or hyperpigmentation.