Thinking about Skin Needling?
This collagen-boosting treatment can smooth fine lines, fade acne scars, and give your skin a serious refresh, but only if you prep and care for it properly. Before you roll into your first session, here’s what to do (and what to avoid) to get the best results without setbacks.
Skin Needling Dos
1. Do schedule a consultation first
Skin Needling involves creating controlled micro-injuries to stimulate collagen production. While this process is generally safe, skin conditions like reactive or highly sensitive skin and, the presence of active acne, eczema, or rosacea, are prone to complications.
2. Do follow your prep plan
Your therapist may recommend products like a melanin inhibitor to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation, especially for medium to deep skin tones.
3. Do pause retinoids and active acids
Stop using exfoliants (like AHA/BHA products or Retin-A) at least 5–7 days before treatment to avoid increased sensitivity. These products thin the outermost layer of skin, and combining them with Skin Needling can lead to irritation, inflammation, or even microtears.
4. Do wear daily SPF
Sun protection is non-negotiable in the lead-up to your session. UV exposure makes the skin more prone to irritation and can increase the risk of post-treatment pigmentation. A broad-spectrum SPF helps maintain skin health and prevents undoing the benefits of Skin Needling.
5. Do plan ahead
Skin Needling is not a one-and-done treatment. Sessions are spaced 4–6 weeks apart to allow full skin regeneration between treatments. For lasting results—especially with concerns like acne scars, stretch marks, or pigmentation—a course of 4–6 sessions is usually recommended.
6. Do use soothing, hydrating products post-treatment
After Skin Needling, your skin will be more vulnerable. Stick to calming, hydrating skincare like Skinstitut® Gentle Cleanser, Rejuvenate 15 Serum, and Normal Moisturiser. These help support the healing process, restore moisture balance, and reduce irritation.
7. Do opt for Yellow LED Light Therapy (if recommended)
Adding Yellow LED Light Therapy to your Skin Needling session isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a smart move. This light-based treatment works at a cellular level to accelerate recovery, reduce inflammation, and boost collagen synthesis, giving you a faster, smoother glow.
8. Do stay consistent
Skin Needling delivers gradual improvements. Skipping sessions or being inconsistent with your home care can limit results.
Stick to your plan and support your skin with the right products—think gentle, hydrating, and collagen-supporting formulas like Skinstitut® Gentle Cleanser, Rejuvenate 15 Serum (for its copper peptides), and Even Blend Serum (if you're prone to pigmentation). These products help maintain results between sessions and keep your skin barrier strong.
Skin Needling Don't's
1. Don’t expose your skin to the sun
UV exposure before or after your treatment can worsen inflammation and raise your risk of hyperpigmentation. Wear SPF daily and skip tanning beds or long sun exposure at least one week before and after.
2. Don’t wax, shave, or undergo hair removal in the treatment area
Hair removal methods like waxing or IPL can leave the skin vulnerable. Avoid these at least 1–2 weeks before your session to reduce the risk of irritation and sensitivity.
3. Don’t wear makeup right after
Your skin is in recovery mode post-needling, with tiny micro-channels still open. Applying makeup can introduce bacteria and cause breakouts or infections. Wait at least 24–48 hours before wearing any cosmetics.
4. Don’t pick or peel flaking skin
Mild flaking or dryness can occur after treatment. Resist the urge to pick—it can interrupt healing and cause scarring. Stick to soothing products and let the skin shed naturally.
5. Don’t exercise or overheat your skin immediately after
Hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, and intense workouts should be avoided for at least 24–48 hours. Heat can increase inflammation and sweat can irritate freshly treated skin.
6. Don’t expect overnight results
Skin Needling is a long game. Visible changes in scars, fine lines, or texture take time—usually after several sessions. Be patient, stay consistent, and follow your Skin Therapist’s advice for best results.
Final Thoughts
Skin Needling isn’t a one-size-fits-all fix — and that’s exactly why it works. At Laser Clinics Canada, your treatment plan isn’t pulled from a template. It’s tailored to your skin type, concerns, and goals by trained professionals who know how to get results safely. A complimentary consultation is the first step to finding out if it’s the right option for you.
Ready to get started? Book your consultation today.
