Is this bruising normal after at-home microneedling? (Photos)

Question

Dear Doctors. I just did microneedling by myself and I’m concerned about the bruises on my face. I have a feeling that these bruises Will later on leave the spots darker. I think I did a little more aggressive on those area ( which has hyperpigmentation). Will those bruises make the hyperpigmentation get darker? Should I use Retin-A to help lighten them? Those pictures taken two days after the treatment. Thank you for your time!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

DO NOT DO AT HOME MICRONEEDLING. you now have possible scars and hyperpigmentation that needs an at home peel like Cosmelan or enlighten to improve and then proper skincare.  please contact us.
Hyperpigmentation from any type needs a combination approach of peels like cosmelan,  lasers like clear and brilliant and aerolase or laser genesis, radiofrequency like venus viva, and constant skin care and sun protection.  Bimontly facials with silk peel dermalinfusion is essential to hydrate, exfoliate and infuse vitamins and antioxidants into the skin.  If you have acne you can do additional treatments and peels to get more improvement.  I suggest a formal consultation with an expert in lasers and peels. Best, Dr. Emer.

Dmitriy Schwarzburg, MD · Answer

Microneedling is a non-invasive skin rejuvenation technique that uses a mechanical device with fine needles to create controlled injury. This triggers the body to produce more collagen. It addresses fine lines and wrinkles, loose and sagging skin, acne and scarring, uneven texture, stretch marks, and pore size.  Please contact a qualified provider or a board-certified physician with extensive experience in these procedures to manage side effects, in-office treatments are recommended.

Morgan Rabach, MD · Answer

I would not recommend using a microneedling tool at home. The microneedling tools sold to licensed professionals are vastly different than those sold to anyone else. The needles used in a dermatologist’s office can penetrate the layer of the skin where scars develop and encourage more collagen production. Over the counter products don't have this depth and end up piercing the top layer of the skin, which can have damaging effects, as you have found. I recommend consulting with a dermatologist to assess your next steps to calm the bruising and reduce the possibility of scaring.

Accents Cosmetic Surgery and Medical Spa · Answer

Thank you for your question and providing photos. Please keep in mind an assessment in office will be best to receive the most thorough treatment plan.
While microneedling is more of a low maintenance proceeder, it does still require some downtime (I recommend 3 days of no makeup/strenous activity) and also some bruising may occur. The reason is that not only does the bleeding of from the needles cause bruising but depending on how aggressive of a treatment you received, the vibration from the micrneedling device can further cause some bruising.
Keep an eye on the area and contact your provider should you have further concerns. Arnica tablets are amazing at keeping bruising at a minimum. They can be found at drugstores and can be taken 72 hours before a procedure.

Is this bruising normal after at-home microneedling? (Photos)

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Is this bruising normal after at-home microneedling? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Microneedling bruising

Answer: Microneedling bruising

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Everything you need to know about Microneedling

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