If you’ve been curious about microneedling and are ready to take the plunge, you’re probably wondering what the experience is really like. At POUT, we love helping clients feel confident and informed about every treatment. Here’s a detailed guide to what you can expect at your first microneedling appointment.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that uses fine needles to create tiny microchannels in the skin. This stimulates your body’s natural collagen and elastin production, helping to improve skin texture, minimize fine lines, reduce the appearance of scars, and give your complexion a healthy, radiant glow.
Before Your Appointment
To make sure your skin is prepped and ready, please follow these guidelines:
- Discontinue Retinol 5–7 days prior to treatment. (Ideally, avoid retinol for 3–4 weeks if possible.)
- No IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) for 2 weeks to 1 month before your appointment.
- Stop use of Tretinoin at least 6 months prior to treatment.
- This treatment is not suitable for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Day of Treatment
- Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin.
- Notify your service provider of any recent changes in medications, illness, or breakouts.
What Happens During the Appointment
Here’s a step-by-step look at what your first microneedling session usually involves:
- Consultation: Your esthetician will discuss your skincare goals and what to expect in your treatment.
- Cleansing: Your skin will be thoroughly cleaned to remove makeup, oils, and impurities.
- Numbing: A topical numbing cream is applied to ensure maximum comfort during the procedure.
- Microneedling: Using a device with tiny, sterile needles, your esthetician gently treats your skin. The sensation is often described as mild pricking or tingling.
- Post-Treatment Care: After the session, a soothing serum or mask is applied to calm your skin and support healing.
What to Expect After Microneedling
- Redness and sensitivity: Your skin may look a bit flushed, similar to a mild sunburn. This usually fades within 24–48 hours.
- Mild swelling or tightness: Some clients notice slight swelling, which is completely normal.
- Peeling or flaking: As your skin regenerates, you may experience minor flaking or dryness.
- Glowing skin: In the days following your appointment, you’ll notice your skin looking smoother, plumper, and refreshed.
Aftercare Tips
Proper aftercare is essential to ensure your skin heals beautifully:
- Avoid touching your skin unnecessarily.
- Use only cool water and the post-procedure serum provided for the first 24–48 hours (or until the serum runs out).
-
Do not apply makeup during this time.
- Make sure to clean your makeup brushes before resuming use.
- Avoid sweating, exercise, saunas, swimming pools, and hot showers for at least 24–48 hours.
- Skip active skincare ingredients like retinols, acids, and exfoliants until your provider says it’s safe.
- Stick to gentle, hydrating products.
- Use the post-procedure kit or product suggestions from your POUT esthetician.
- Sleep on a clean pillowcase (we love Slip Silk Pillowcases for extra comfort and skin support).
How Many Sessions Will You Need?
Microneedling results are cumulative. Most clients see noticeable improvements after 3–6 sessions, spaced about 4–6 weeks apart. Your esthetician will tailor a plan to meet your individual skincare goals.
Microneedling is a transformative treatment that helps your skin look and feel its best. At POUT, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from your first appointment to your glowing results.
Ready To Schedule Your First Session?
Book online or call us today at (803) 254-5051 to get started!
