Skin Needling Aftercare: The First 72 Hours
How you look after your skin in the first 72 hours after skin needling has a bigger impact on your final result than most people realise. Here's exactly what our Melbourne dermal team recommends after every Dermapen or Dr. Pen session.
0 to 12 hours: leave it alone
Your skin will feel warm, tight and look flushed, like light sunburn. Don't touch, wash or apply anything except what your therapist sent you home with. No makeup, no active serums, no gym.
12 to 24 hours: gentle cleanse only
Use lukewarm water and a gentle, non-foaming cleanser. Pat dry, never rub. Follow with a barrier-supporting moisturiser and, if going outside, mineral SPF 50+.
Day 2 to 3: hydrate, protect, be boring
Redness settles to a pink flush; some clients get mild flaking. Keep your routine minimal and rich in ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Continue SPF 50+ every single day.
What to avoid for 72 hours
- Actives: retinol, AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C
- Sauna, steam room, hot yoga, intense cardio
- Swimming (chlorine and salt water)
- Direct sun exposure and sunbeds
- Makeup on day one; mineral-only from day two
When to book your next session
Space sessions 4-6 weeks apart to let collagen fully remodel between treatments. If you're partway through a course, our skin needling packages are the most cost-effective way to lock in the full protocol.
