Microneedling RF gone wrong? Will I scar worse?

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. It’s understandable to feel concerned after experiencing a different reaction during your fifth microneedling RF treatment. Using adapalene too close to the procedure can indeed increase skin sensitivity and potentially lead to an adverse reaction, especially if the depth of treatment was adjusted. This combination might contribute to your current symptoms, but it’s hard to say definitively if it will lead to worse scarring. To promote healing, it’s crucial to keep the area clean with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser and apply a hydrating moisturizer, preferably one with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. Avoid using retinoids or any strong exfoliants for at least a week and be diligent about applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the area from sun exposure, which can exacerbate hyperpigmentation. Resist the urge to pick at any scabs or healing skin, as this could increase the risk of scarring. I hope this helps and best of luck!

I'm sorry to hear of the issues you are experiencing after your treatment. I encourage you to return to your provider for an evaluation. Do not use any products on the skin except those recommended by your provider to minimize further inflammation. It's difficult to say definitively if using the adapelene could contribute to this reaction, but it is a possibility.