March 16, 2026 | Microneedling
5 minute read
Microneedling is a fantastic regenerative procedure that enhances skin tone, texture, and elasticity using the body’s own healing properties. This blog discusses the benefits of microneedling and what patients can expect from its recovery process.
The Benefits of Microneedling
Microneedling is a popular, minimally invasive procedure that uses the body’s own healing properties to increase blood flow and promote collagen and elastin production, resulting in healthier, more youthful skin.
Collagen and elastin are the building blocks of youthful, bouncy, glowing skin. It’s the ideal—what everyone is looking for in their cosmetic products and supplements—because one of the best ways to enhance your skin is to create more collagen. That’s why microneedling is such an excellent procedure: it triggers a reaction that helps your skin heal itself for long-term, natural beauty.
How Does Microneedling Work?
Microneedling comes in many forms, but the principles remain the same:
- Tiny, surgical-grade needles are used to penetrate the skin’s surface, usually attached to a handpiece or device that makes it easy for the practitioner to hold.
- As the needles penetrate the skin, they create microchannels.
- The microchannels are interpreted as injuries to the body, which responds by increasing collagen and elastin to heal them.
- Simultaneously, the microneedling process exfoliates the top layer of skin, inducing cellular turnover.
- The healing effects build up over time, softening fine lines and wrinkles, improving texture and acne scars, and tightening the skin for a more youthful appearance.
Additionally, the microchannels created by the treatment allow skincare and other topicals to absorb more effectively, so microneedling is commonly paired with other regenerative treatments like PRP, exosomes, growth factors, and polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN)—a bioactive compound derived from DNA fragments that supports tissue repair and skin regeneration—for even more advanced healing results.
We also offer Pearl, an advanced formulation that combines PDRN and exosomes into a single treatment, designed to enhance the skin’s natural healing response and optimize post-treatment rejuvenation.for even more advanced healing results.
When You Can See Microneedling Results: A Healing Timeline
Microneedling heals in stages, and you can see measurable improvement at every step. There are initial benefits, like skin exfoliation, glow, and product absorption, as well as long-term benefits that appear once collagen starts to build up, such as smoother skin texture, reduced fine lines, and improved skin elasticity. The following is an example of a general microneedling recovery timeline.
The First 24 Hours After Microneedling
Immediately after your treatment, it is not uncommon to experience some tightness, redness, or swelling. Redness should dissipate in a few hours, while light cold compresses can help soothe discomfort and swelling.
A few guidelines for immediate aftercare include:
- Avoid sun exposure, hot tubs, and saunas
- Avoid makeup, moisturizer, sunscreen, and other topical products for 24 hours
- Avoid excessive sweating and exercise, as this can increase the risk of infection
- Avoid touching the treatment area with your hands, hats, or headbands
Essentially, leave your skin alone for the first 24 hours after your procedure and take it easy for that first night.
The First Week
After the first 24 hours, continue to be gentle with your healing skin. You can use a gentle moisturizer and mineral makeup after 72 hours, but avoid harsh retinoids and exfoliants for a few weeks.
You will likely notice tiny, red pinprick dots on your face: these are tiny scabs from the microchannels created during the procedure. DO NOT pick them, scrub them off, or dislodge them in any way, as this can result in scarring. Allow your skin to heal on its own, and after a short time, the scabs will fall off. Your skin may also feel sensitive, dry, and patchy. These are common after the procedure, and your practitioner can help you address these issues if they persist.
Two Weeks
After two weeks, you’ll likely have no more restrictions, as the initial healing period is over. Your scabs should have fallen off, and your skin may appear more luminous. Now, the internal healing is progressing. Collagen and elastin are building up in your skin, and you can aid this process by continuing to protect your skin from sun exposure, eating well, and staying hydrated.
Weeks Three to Four
Depending on the type of microneedling you have, you can usually see some noticeable changes in your skin texture and tone around three to four weeks after your treatment. Microneedling is often performed multiple times to achieve desired results, typically scheduled every six weeks or so for about three sessions.
What to Watch Out for During Microneedling Recovery
The main concern with microneedling is the possibility of infection. The procedure creates small holes in the skin, which can let in bacteria and lead to infections. That’s why it’s important to avoid touching your skin with anything that can carry bacteria, like your fingers, phone, or dirty makeup brushes. Be aware of what touches your face in those first few days, and if you come into contact with anything, gently wash your face with antibacterial soap.
Additionally, swelling is a common challenge during microneedling recovery, but it’s a normal side effect. Your body is responding to the “injuries”, but it can be a bit uncomfortable and add to your discomfort. You can reduce swelling with some light compresses (using a clean paper towel over an icepack, for example), and by sleeping on your back with your head elevated.
Learn More About Microneedling in Reno and Carson City, NV
Use your skin’s own healing powers to restore a youthful, glowing complexion with microneedling. Call Bonaldi Aesthetics Plastic Surgery and Med Spa today at (775) 828-7400 or complete the contact form to schedule a consultation with an expert aesthetic provider.
