How to Care for Skin After PRP Microneedling
PRP microneedling combines tiny needle treatments with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Proper aftercare is key to achieving the best results. Here’s what you need to know:
First 24 Hours: Avoid washing your face, makeup, and skincare products. Let PRP absorb fully. Use cold compresses for swelling and avoid touching your skin.
Days 2-7: Gently cleanse with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Use a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Avoid active ingredients like retinol or acids for at least a week.
Sun Protection: After 24-48 hours, apply mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily. Avoid direct sunlight and wear protective clothing for 7-10 days.
Activities to Avoid: Skip exercise, alcohol, and smoking for 48-72 hours. Avoid heat, such as saunas or hot showers, for 48 hours.
Recovery Timeline: Redness, swelling, and peeling are normal for the first 3-5 days. Full healing and collagen production can take up to 6 weeks.
Quick Tip: Follow these steps to protect your skin and ensure optimal healing. If redness, swelling, or discomfort persists after 5 days, contact your provider.
What to Do AFTER Plasma Injection?
First 24 Hours After Treatment
Right after your treatment, your skin will likely be red, feel warm, and may show some pinpoint bleeding or swelling. These are normal signs that your body’s healing process is underway. The most intense symptoms usually peak within the first 48 hours and then gradually fade. Redness and swelling typically last anywhere from 24 to 72 hours [1].
Don’t Touch or Wash the Treated Area
For at least 4 hours – and ideally up to 24 hours – avoid washing your face. This downtime allows the PRP to fully absorb into your skin, giving it the best chance to work its magic.
“Avoid washing your face for at least 4–6 hours post-treatment. This gives the PRP time to fully absorb into your skin and do its job.” – Philadelphia Facial Plastic Surgery & Medspa [1]
During this period, resist the urge to touch your face. The treatment channels remain open, and unwashed hands can introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Rubbing or massaging the area can also interfere with the PRP absorption process. If you’re sleeping during this time, prop your head up on an extra pillow to help reduce swelling overnight [1].
Avoid Makeup and Skincare Products
Your skin becomes especially absorbent right after treatment, making it more prone to irritation or infection from makeup and certain skincare products. Steer clear of makeup for at least 24 hours, and hold off on active ingredients like retinols, Vitamin C, and acids for 3–7 days [4][3][2][1].
“You should avoid wearing makeup for at least 24 hours after your treatment. Your skin will be more absorbent, and makeup can cause irritation or infection.” – Tony Bao, Aestheticus Med Spa [3]
Even sunscreen should wait until after the first 24 hours. When you do start using it, opt for a mineral-based formula with zinc or titanium dioxide instead of chemical sunscreens [2][1]. These precautions are crucial for ensuring your skin heals properly and is ready for the next steps in recovery.
Apply Cold Compresses for Relief
To soothe burning, tightness, or puffiness, use a clean, cold compress intermittently to calm irritation and reduce swelling [1].
If discomfort persists, you can take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) as needed. However, avoid anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen or Aspirin, as they can interfere with the natural inflammatory response your body needs to boost collagen production. Also, steer clear of hot showers, saunas, and steam rooms for at least 48 hours, as heat can worsen swelling and irritation.
Cleansing and Moisturizing (Day 2 and Beyond)
Once the initial sensitivity has eased, it’s time to focus on gentle cleansing and hydration to aid your skin’s recovery. Starting these steps 24 hours after your microneedling with PRP treatment helps create the perfect foundation for healing.
Use a Gentle, Fragrance-Free Cleanser
On day 2, begin washing your face twice daily with a mild, sulfate-free cleanser. Stick to cool or lukewarm water to minimize irritation.
“Use a gentle cleanser and cool water to cleanse your face for 72 hours after-treatment. Gently dry the treated skin, making sure that your hands are clean when touching the treated area.” – Metrolina Dermatology
Make sure to use clean hands only – skip washcloths or facial brushes for the first week. Opt for products specifically made for sensitive or post-procedure skin, and steer clear of harsh ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide for at least 5 to 7 days. After cleansing, pat your skin dry gently with a clean, soft towel.
Moisturize with Gentle, Hydrating Products
Right after cleansing, apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer while your skin is still damp to lock in hydration. Look for soothing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, aloe vera, or centella asiatica (commonly known as cica) to calm irritation and strengthen your skin barrier.
For areas that feel extra dry, a richer ointment like Aquaphor can provide additional relief. It’s normal to notice some peeling or a rough, sandpaper-like texture around days 3 to 5. Keep moisturizing regularly, avoid picking at flaking skin, and stay consistent with hydration to support your skin’s recovery.
Sun Protection Guidelines
After undergoing PRP microneedling, your skin’s micro-channels are more susceptible to UV damage. Even minimal sun exposure during this time can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. As you transition back to your regular skincare routine, sun protection should be a top priority to ensure your skin heals properly.
“Sun exposure after microneedling can increase your risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and interfere with your skin’s natural healing process.” – Philly Facial Surgery & Medspa
Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Daily
Give your skin 24–48 hours post-treatment to allow the micro-channels to close and the PRP to absorb fully. After this initial period, sunscreen becomes non-negotiable for at least two weeks.
Opt for a mineral (physical) sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these ingredients are gentler on healing skin compared to chemical sunscreens. Look for broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30 or higher to shield against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen every morning, even if you’re staying indoors, and reapply every two hours when spending time outside.
“Skin is extremely sensitive to sun damage after microneedling, so sunscreen should be applied daily and often reapplied for the two weeks following treatment.” – Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, Board-certified cosmetic dermatologist
Minimize Sun Exposure and Wear Protective Clothing
Sunscreen alone isn’t enough to protect your healing skin. Avoid direct sunlight for 7–10 days after your treatment. If you need to be outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat, protective clothing, and stick to shaded areas whenever possible.
Try to avoid outdoor activities during peak UV hours, typically between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, especially during the first week of recovery. Steer clear of tanning beds, self-tanning products, saunas, and chlorinated pools for at least two weeks. If you have an outdoor event or beach trip planned, consider scheduling your microneedling session 7–10 days in advance to allow your skin to complete the critical healing phase before significant sun exposure.
Activities and Habits to Avoid During Recovery
Taking care of your skin after treatment goes beyond just cleansing and moisturizing. For the first 48–72 hours, your skin’s micro-channels are especially sensitive, leaving them more prone to bacteria, inflammation, and other factors that could interfere with the healing process. Adjusting your activities during this period can make a big difference in your recovery.
Skip Exercise and Activities That Cause Sweating
Hold off on intense workouts, cardio, or heavy lifting for at least 48 hours after your treatment. Why? Sweating can expose your skin to bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.
“Strenuous exercise also reduces blood flow needed for healing by redirecting it to muscles.” – Image Surgical Arts [6]
On top of that, the heat generated from exercise can make swelling and redness worse. If you feel ready to ease back into light activity by day four or five, be sure to cleanse your face immediately after sweating [6].
Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol and nicotine are two major culprits when it comes to slowing down recovery. Alcohol not only dehydrates your body but also reduces platelet function and acts as an inflammatory agent, which can worsen swelling and bruising. This combination can hamper collagen production and cellular repair [7][9].
“The vasoconstrictive effects of nicotine can counteract the regenerative magic of PRP.” – Swetnam Cosmetic Surgery [8]
Nicotine, on the other hand, constricts blood vessels, slowing down the delivery of essential growth factors to the treated area. To give your skin the best chance to heal, avoid alcohol for 48–72 hours and steer clear of smoking for at least two weeks. Staying hydrated by drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water daily also supports recovery [8]. By following these guidelines alongside your gentle cleansing and hydration routine, you’ll set the stage for smoother skin and a successful return to your skin treatments and regular skincare habits.
Adding Skincare Products Back (Days 4–7)
Once your initial recovery period has passed, it’s time to start reintroducing your regular skincare products. The trick here is to go slow – your skin is still healing, and a gradual approach helps ease the transition back to your full routine while supporting recovery.
Start with Gentle, Non-Active Products
By days 3 or 4, you can reintroduce the basics, like a mild cleanser and a hydrating moisturizer. Focus on products that prioritize hydration and barrier repair. Look for moisturizers with soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, centella asiatica (cica), chamomile, or panthenol (Vitamin B5). Hyaluronic acid is also a great addition since it pulls in moisture without clogging pores [1][11]. By days 5 to 7, most people can ease back into their personalized skincare regimen.
If you notice stinging or redness after trying a product, wash it off immediately. Give your skin another 2–3 days before attempting to use it again [10].
“The aftercare routine you follow at home is just as important as the procedure itself.” – Kevin Simons, MDPen Skincare [11]
Hold Off on Active Ingredients
Steer clear of active ingredients like retinoids, Vitamin C, and exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs) for at least a full week after your treatment [2]. These powerful ingredients can be too harsh for your healing skin and may disrupt its natural regeneration process. During this phase, you might notice a rough texture – this is due to tiny scabs and dead skin cells rising to the surface as your skin rapidly regenerates [10].
After day 7, you can begin reintroducing active ingredients, but take it slow. Add them one at a time and keep an eye out for any irritation. Also, skip facial brushes, scrubs, or powered cleansing tools for at least a week to avoid unnecessary stress on your skin [1].
Recovery Timeline and What to Expect
As your skin begins its healing journey after PRP microneedling, it progresses through several phases of recovery. Right after the procedure, your skin may resemble a sunburn – redness, swelling, warmth, and tightness are all part of the process. You might also see some pinpoint bleeding, which is a natural response to the micro-injuries created during treatment [1].
Between days 3 and 5, your skin shifts into a renewal phase. This is when the initial inflammation gives way to cellular repair and turnover. During this time, you may notice a slightly rough texture, along with flaking or peeling as older skin cells shed. Some people might experience minor breakouts or tiny white bumps, known as milia, as their skin adjusts to the increased cell turnover [2]. By the end of the first week, most visible side effects, like redness and peeling, have usually subsided, leaving your skin looking smoother and more refreshed [1].
“Expect a few days of redness and light peeling – this is a positive sign that your skin is actively rebuilding collagen.” – MDPen Skincare [12]
Even though your skin might appear healed after a week, the deeper work continues. Over the next 2 to 6 weeks, collagen and elastin production ramp up, delivering ongoing improvements beneath the surface [1].
Common Side Effects: Redness, Swelling, and Peeling
The redness and swelling you notice immediately after treatment are part of your body’s natural inflammatory response, which kickstarts collagen production. Typically, these side effects last 24 to 48 hours, with some puffiness lingering for up to 3 days [12]. To ease swelling, you can use a cold compress wrapped in a clean towel for short periods and try sleeping with your head elevated using an extra pillow.
It’s important to avoid anti-inflammatory medications like Ibuprofen or Aspirin during this time, as they can interfere with the natural healing process. If pain relief is necessary, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is a better choice [12]. As peeling begins around day 3, resist the urge to pick or scrub at the flaking skin. Allowing it to shed naturally is crucial for avoiding scarring or infection [12].
When to Call Your Provider
While most side effects are mild and temporary, there are certain signs that should prompt you to reach out to your provider. If redness, swelling, or discomfort persists or worsens after 5 days, it’s time to seek professional advice [12][13]. Be vigilant for signs of infection, such as yellow discharge, pus, spreading warmth, extreme tenderness, or fever, as these require immediate medical attention.
“If you experience any of the warning signs of an infection or simply feel that something isn’t right with your recovery, don’t hesitate to contact your practitioner.” – Kevin Simons, MDPen [12]
Additionally, if you suspect an allergic reaction to any post-treatment products, contact your provider right away. Always keep your practitioner informed if your recovery doesn’t follow the expected timeline.
Caring for your skin after a microneedling treatment is just as important as the procedure itself. The choices you make in the hours and days that follow can significantly impact both how quickly your skin heals and the overall outcome.
Microneedling creates tiny micro-channels in your skin, which temporarily leave it more sensitive to irritation, infection, and sun damage. To safeguard your skin and get the best results, it’s crucial to stick to your provider’s microneedling aftercare instructions. For example, waiting 6 to 8 hours before washing your face and using only gentle, approved products helps protect the skin’s natural barrier. Adding steps like gentle cleansing and regular sun protection further enhances the treatment’s benefits.
“Taking care of your skin after microneedling can make a huge difference in the outcome of your treatment. Not only will proper aftercare soothe your symptoms, but you’ll also be protecting your skin from damage as it heals.” – Healthline [5]
FAQs
If redness and swelling stick around for more than 5 days, it’s a good idea to contact your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. While waiting for their guidance, stick to these gentle aftercare steps:
Wash your skin with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
Use cool compresses to help calm any irritation.
Steer clear of harsh skincare products, exfoliants, or anything that might aggravate your skin.
Your provider can examine your skin and offer tailored advice to support proper healing.
No, it’s not a good idea to jump right back into using your regular skincare products after PRP microneedling. Your skin is in a sensitive, healing phase, and introducing active ingredients or harsh formulas too soon can interfere with the recovery process.
For the first 48 hours, stick to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and apply any post-procedure serum or healing gel recommended by your provider. These will help keep your skin hydrated and calm. Avoid products containing retinoids, acids, or exfoliants for at least 72 hours, as these can irritate your skin. Once your skin feels dry, make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to shield it from UV damage.
At Calista Aesthetics, we offer detailed, personalized aftercare instructions to help your skin heal smoothly and get the best possible results from your treatment.
After undergoing PRP microneedling, giving your skin enough time to recover is crucial before jumping back into exercise. Experts generally advise waiting at least 24 hours before any physical activity, with a recommendation of up to 3 days for intense workouts. This pause minimizes the risk of irritation, reduces sweating, and avoids unnecessary strain on your freshly treated skin.
During the first 24 hours, it’s best to avoid any activity that causes sweating or puts stress on your body. A light walk is perfectly fine, but steer clear of high-intensity workouts, running, or heavy lifting. By the second or third day, if your skin feels comfortable, you can ease into gentle movements like stretching or low-impact yoga. After 72 hours, if redness or sensitivity has subsided, you can gradually return to your usual exercise routine.
At Calista Aesthetics, we emphasize following these recovery tips to promote proper healing and achieve the best results. Always pay attention to how your body feels, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider if you’re unsure about resuming physical activities.