Use Of Sunscreen After Microneedling

One of the most commonly asked questions about microneedling is how soon afterward you can use sunscreen. After all, there is little point in undergoing this process to boost your skin health if the next day you head out and harm your skin with the sun’s rays. Many, however, think that wearing sunscreen may hurt the skin so soon after this process, so what exactly should you be doing? The simple answer is that sunscreen after microneedling is essential and here is how to go about it correctly. 

Can I Use Sunscreen After Microneedling?

The use of suncreen will be an essential part of your microneedling treatment and healing process. Whether you have been to a clinic for microneedling or applied the treatment at home, you should look to use sunscreen consistently post-treatment.

Additionally, you should avoid direct sunlight for as much as two weeks after microneedling, whether rain or shine outside. Since your skin is vulnerable at first and very delicate, sunscreen will not only prevent lasting damage from those harmful UV rays but also help you get better results from this procedure.

How Long After Microneedling Can I Use Sunscreen?

Sunscreen may be applied the following day after a microneedling treatment. It’s advisable to adhere to a simple safety guideline of waiting a full 24 hours before doing so.

Microneedling ‘damages’ the top layer of your skin to generate the growth of new, fresher, and healthier skin. With this in mind, wearing sunscreen right away isn’t encouraged, as this can block the pores, affecting your healing skin.

Many physical sunscreens (that contain Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) won’t usually clog the pores, but after microneedling, there is a higher risk. In the meantime, you should either avoid the sun entirely or use a large sun hat to protect your face. 

Why is Sunscreen Important After Microneedling?

Sunscreen is crucial following microneedling due to the harmful effects of direct sunlight on the skin. Sunlight contains UV (ultraviolet) rays, including both UVA and UVB rays, which can deeply penetrate the skin and cause significant damage.

UVB rays are what cause sunburn and UVA rays penetrate deeper and are generally responsible for premature aging and cancer formation. After your microneedling treatment, you must protect your skin from both to aid collagen production and cell repair.

These rays damage the skin and restrict skin and cell growth — undoing the procedure’s benefits. Sunscreen also helps to protect against inflammatory discoloration or acne scars.

Benefits of Using Sunscreen After Microneedling

• Protection from UV rays
• Prevents Hyperpigmentation
• Enhances Healing and Overall Skin Health
• Maintains Results
• Reduces Skin Cancer Risk
• Minimizes Wrinkle Formation

What Sunscreen To Use After Microneedling

When it comes to choosing the ideal sunscreen for safeguarding your skin post-micro needling, consider the following guidelines:

• SPF 30+: While SPF 30 is the minimum recommendation, using products with SPF 50 offers even stronger protection, especially when exposed to intense sunlight. Know that SPF measures the quality of protection, not its duration.
• Physical Sunscreen: A physical sunscreen is commonly referred to as a mineral sunscreen. Physical sunscreens offer broad spectrum protection, immediate defense as soon as you apply, and are gentle on the skin. These sunscreens contain physically active ingredients like Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and are generally free of chemicals.
• Chemical-Free: Avoid cosmetic or chemical sunscreens as they can potentially lead to irritation and redness, and may contain undesirable chemicals.

Remember that proper sunscreen application is vital for maintaining the benefits of your microneedling treatment and protecting your skin from sun damage. Consult a skincare professional or dermatologist on which sunscreen would be ideal for your specific skin type.

Application Guidelines

After the first 24 hours, sunscreen should be applied generously and frequently whenever you go out. Be sure that you reapply every one to two hours to ensure maximum protection, specifically after getting wet or actively sweating. About half a teaspoon is recommended to cover the neck and face area.

Additionally, you can use products such as hyaluronic acid serums in combination with SPF to ensure you are protected throughout the day. Even if you can’t see the sun, it’s important to stay protected and apply sunscreen whenever you plan to be outside.

Additional Skin Care Tips Post-Microneedling

Ensuring the optimal care of your skin during the initial weeks following the procedure is essential. Keeping this in mind, let’s explore the essential guidelines for effective microneedling aftercare.

• Avoid activities that could heat your skin or cause you to sweat excessively like gyms, saunas, or hot baths
• Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking consumption
• Avoid makeup for 24 to 48 hours
• Avoid harsh products that scrub the skin or additional treatments like chemical peels
• Stay Hydrated
• Using non-irritant and non-clogging skin products, use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer twice a day
• Use protective clothing such as sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats when venturing outdoors.
• Check your face for adverse reactions, pimples, bleeding, pain, or pigment changes; consult a healthcare professional when you spot something different.

Conclusion

The importance of sunscreen after microneedling cannot be overstated. It serves as a shield against harmful UV rays, ensuring your skin heals optimally while safeguarding the results of your procedure. Remember to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, containing physical blockers like Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for enhanced protection.

Additionally, adopting a holistic approach to skincare during the post-microneedling phase, including gentle cleansing, hydration, and avoiding harsh products, will further contribute to your skin’s health and beauty. By following these guidelines diligently, you’ll not only protect your investment but also reveal a radiant, rejuvenated complexion that microneedling is renowned for.

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