How to Prepare for Your Microneedling Appointment

When clients come to me for microneedling, I want their skin primed for the best results. Prepping properly helps your skin respond better to treatment, reduces risks, and supports smoother healing. Here’s what I ask all my microneedling clients to follow before their appointment.

Why Microneedling Prep Matters

Microneedling creates tiny controlled injuries in the skin that remain open for 12–36 hours. During this time, your skin is more receptive to active ingredients and more vulnerable to irritation. Proper preparation helps minimize complications like irritation, prolonged redness, or breakouts—and sets you up for optimal collagen stimulation.

Microneedling Prep Checklist

1. Pretreat if you get cold sores
If you have a history of cold sores, please start Acyclovir (or a similar antiviral) before your appointment. Microneedling can trigger outbreaks if you’re prone.

2. Avoid blood thinners 24 hours prior
This includes alcohol, smoking/vaping, caffeine, and supplements like fish oil. Blood thinners can increase the risk of pinpoint bleeding and slow healing.

3. Pause certain skincare products

  • Stop retinoids and medical-grade actives at least 5 days before your appointment.

  • Avoid AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C, and benzoyl peroxide in the days leading up to treatment.

  • Stick to gentle cleansers and bland hydration.

4. Timing with other procedures

  • Do not book microneedling within one month of surgery.

  • Wait at least 2 weeks after Botox, fillers, or laser treatments before scheduling microneedling.

5. General wellness tips

  • Stay hydrated—healthy skin heals more efficiently.

  • Get good sleep the night before.

  • Come in with clean skin (no makeup).

Day of Your Appointment

Plan for 10 minutes of numbing at the beginning of the treatment.

  1. Expect some redness and a mild sunburn-like sensation for the next several hours.

  2. Avoid scheduling important social events immediately after.

In Conclusion

Microneedling works best when you set your skin up for success. By following these prep steps, you’ll reduce irritation, protect your results, and ensure the treatment works as intended.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward stronger, healthier skin, let’s chat when you’re in the studio.

For a more comprehensive dive into microneedling, navigate here →.