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 – 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 – 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 – 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.
