Peeling after microneedling. How bad is it to do this?

Question

I peel after microneedling and this is my 3rd treatment but every time I've been rubbing it and picking at it and didn't know I wasn't supposed to! What happens if you peel/pick at the skin as it sloughs off after microneedling? How bad is it to do that?

Rosy Sandhu, MD · Answer

As a general rule, you should not peel or pick at the flaking skin after getting any treatment including PRP, microneedling, chemical peels or resurfacing lasers like Fraxel. The down side is most commonly getting hyperpigmentation in the area. However, if you've been lucky and did not get patches of hyperpigmentation so far, then I wouldn't worry about it. Just do not do it in future, and apply growth factors if recommended by your doctor or Alastin nectar after the procedure 2-3 times a day for the next 3-4 days for best results and quicker healing. Hope that helps. Best, Dr Sandhu

Jacqueline Calkin, MD · Answer

It’s possible to cause too much irritation/inflammation  when you pick at the skin and peel it before it is ready. This can lead to delayed healing and hyperpigmentation. However, if you have not seen a problem with the first two treatments, I don’t expect any issues. You have not caused any long term damage to your skin. Be careful to stay out of the sun and use a high quality sunscreen!

Peeling after microneedling. How bad is it to do this?

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Peeling after microneedling. How bad is it to do this?

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Everything you need to know about Microneedling

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.