I had 1st microneedling appt yesterday and am shocked by the extreme swelling. Is this normal? Should I stop microneedling?

Question

It's been 27 hours and I'm still nearly unrecognizable due to the swelling and it's impacting my eyesight. I have sensitive skin, however, I'm not that red. Not sure the size of needle (will confirm when clinic opens). I've been icing it and took benadryl (knowing this may counteract the collagen production). I've never experience an allergic reaction like this before. I have only used my regular cleanser and moisturizer today, so shouldn't be that. How can I reduce the swelling? Thanks!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Without photos it's difficult to determine the cause or the best solution for you. That being said, I suggest getting a formal evaluation with an experienced cosmetic dermatologist. The swelling sounds atypical, and it should not impact your eyesight. It's very possible the swelling will subside (as it has only been 24 hours), but I still recommend seeing an expert for an evaluation and to develop a proper after care protocol for you. Best of luck, Dr. Emer

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I have personally been performing medical microneedling for over twenty years, using both manual and automatic devices and needle numbers and lengths of all sizes and do not recall having had a reaction with the kind of significant swelling you describe. In general, even full face treatments that have resulted in pinpoint bleeding points typically calm down over night and do not yield more than a mild sunburn appearance. It is possible that your provider may have added certain topical preparations at the time of treatment (most of which are not intended to be placed on freshly treated skin) which have caused a contact irritation or allergy and hence the swelling you describe. Infection, of course, can be another cause of unusual swelling and must be considered whenever the skin barrier is compromised, as it temporarily is following miicroneedlling. You would do well to contact your treating physician and alert him/her so that the problem can be evaluated and appropriate treatment initiated. Best of luck.

Aurora DeJuliis, MD · Answer

It is very unusual to experience such a degree of swelling after microneedling. You do not mention what kind of microneedling you had done and if it was performed in a medical setting or not. Also you should have been instructed on after-treatment home skin care. Your reaction could be secondary to either a numbing cream applied prior to your treatment or a product used afterwards to which you could be allergic to.

Terry E. Restivo, DO · Answer

It's hard to determine if your swelling is out of the ordinary without photos. However, that said, I tell my patients to only use Aquaphor until their skin has completely healed from your procedure. Your regular cleanser and moisturizer may be too strong for your shin while you're healing. I would also follow up with your provider as he/she may prescribe a steroid for you.

I had 1st microneedling appt yesterday and am shocked by the extreme swelling. Is this normal? Should I stop microneedling?

Answers (4)

Answer: Micro-needling

Answer: Micro-needling

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I had 1st microneedling appt yesterday and am shocked by the extreme swelling. Is this normal? Should I stop microneedling?

Answers (4)

Answer: Micro-needling

Answer: Micro-needling

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Microneedling

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