Microneedling is a fantastic treatment that guarantees you renewed skin, erases wrinkles and provides you with that youthful look you desire. This minimally invasive procedure involves pricking the skin with needles to cause minor injuries, which in turn trigger the body’s healing process and collagen production.
Did you know? In 2021, the global microneedling market size was valued at $583.9 million and is expected to reach $992.5 million by 2028.
Why was this? The consistent result of microneedling is a better skin texture, fewer wrinkles, and a more even skin tone. However, it is essential to understand that, as with most treatments, there are some potential side effects. For instance, around 5-10% of patients may experience bruising after microneedling.
Microneedling bruises are a frustrating disadvantage that can reduce the excitement of your new look. If you’re planning on microneedling or have gone through this procedure, you must be curious to know how to minimize these unpleasant bruises. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this informative guide on reducing them.
What is Microneedling?
Microneedling can be defined as a skincare procedure which uses needles to penetrate the skin derma and create micro-injuries. In addition to aiding in skin repair, these controlled wounds also promote the synthesis of collagen in the dermal layer. The procedure can be done professionally in a clinic or at home using a derma roller, but the latter is rarely very efficient.
What are the Benefits of Microneedling?
There are many advantages of microneedling, thus making it the most preferred aesthetic enhancement.
- Reducing the signs of ageing: By enhancing the collagen fibres' interconnectivity, microneedling also restores the young glow of facial skin.
- Enhanced Skin Texture: In addition to enhancing skin tone, microneedling also smooths out the texture of the skin and reduces roughness.
- Minimization of Pores: The treatment also helps in shrinking the size of the pores hence giving a finer texture to the skin..
- Reduction in Acne Scars: The use of the micro-needling process is equally effective in managing acne scars given that it stimulates skin renewal.
- Improved Skincare Product Absorption: Following microneedling, the skin's surface nerves become visible, improving the skin's conductivity.
What are the Risks of Microneedling?
Like with many other procedures, microneedling carries risks as well. These include:
- Redness and Swelling: Minor redness and swelling are expected in the process of microneedling treatment, but they usually fade away in a couple of days.
- Infection: In case the needles or skin are not adequately sterilized, there are enhanced possibilities of bacterial infections.
- Bruising: It is normal to experience bruising after microneedling, particularly if longer needles are employed or if you have sensitive skin.
- Scarring: Although not common, scarring can occur if the technique is improper or if the wrong needle length is used.
What are Microneedling Bruises?
Microneedling bruises happen when the needles utilized during treatment prick blood vessels just under the surface of the skin, making it possible for blood to clot and create a bruise. Bruises can be quite mild or more severe depending on where the needles were applied, the depth of insertion with which pressure was used and your degree of skin sensitivity.
Although they are rare and last for 3-7 days, it is one of the negative effects of microneedling that can affect the aesthetic aspect of the treatment.
How Can You Reduce Microneedling Bruises?
Fortunately, there are several measures that you can take to ensure that the chances of getting microneedling bruises are reduced. So, if you want to be on the safe side before, during and after the treatment, there are measures that you can put in place to minimize the possibility of developing bruises. Let’s get into the 10 ways you can implement to help minimize microneedle bruising.
1. Choose a Reputable Provider
The first and probably the most effective way of minimizing microneedling bruises is by selecting an ideal provider. A professional and experienced practitioner understands how to apply pressure that allows the execution of the treatment without causing redness or the appearance of bruises.
Be wise to compare different providers before choosing one, and check various customers’ reviews, their licenses, and overall experience in performing microneedling. This simple intervention may add a lot to the overall outcome and experience.
2. Use a Numbing Cream
Before the procedure begins, request your provider to use some topical anaesthetics on the area of the procedure. Usually, numbing creams are employed to prevent discomfort during microneedling. However, they may also be employed to reduce the occurrence of microneedling bruises.
The cream constricts the blood vessels to a small extent thus reducing the possibility of blood vessels’ breakage and thus bruising. It is also important that you heed your providers’ instructions on how long the cream should remain on your skin before the procedure.
3. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key to good health, and it’s also crucial when it comes to reducing microneedling bruises. Water consumption both before and following your procedure contributes to the resilience and plumpness of your skin. Hydrated skin heals faster and is less likely to bruise.
Try to consume eight to ten glasses of water each day, and think about upping your intake in the days leading up to your microneedling session. Not only will this help reduce bruising, but it will also enhance your overall results, giving you that glowing, youthful complexion you’re after.
4. Avoid Blood Thinners
Also, there are certain medications, supplements, and food items that may effectively reduce the ability of your blood to clot and cause easy bruising.
Before the microneedling procedure, it is advisable to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, Vitamin E, fish oil, or alcohol for a week.
These substances can raise your risk of developing microneedling bruises since they reduce your blood’s clotting ability therefore making you more vulnerable to bleeding under the skin surface.
5. Don’t Touch Your Face After the Procedure
It's almost impossible to resist touching the face, especially after microneedling, but it is very important not to do so. When you touch your face you are likely to transfer some bacteria on the freshly treated skin resulting in infections and possibly deepening the extent of bruising.
Also, touching or applying pressure on the face might affect the treated area and increase the visibility of microneedling bruises. Give your skin some air and let it heal itself.
6. Use a Gentle Cleanser
It is important to note that proper aftercare after microneedling is essential in minimizing bruises. Therefore, after the session, avoid using products that contain fragrance on your face but go for a gentle cleanser after the first few days.
Strong cleansers cause your skin to become dry and sensitive, which makes it prone to bruising. Additionally, use a very gentle facial cleanser that can help to wash your skin without stripping it of its natural oils and moisture.
7. Apply a Cold Compress
After microneedling, ensure you apply some ice on the treated area with microneedling as this will help minimize the swelling that occurs after the treatment.
The cold constricts blood flow as it reduces the vessels thus enhancing the circulation to hinder the accumulation of blood under the skin. Take an ice pack, cover it with a soft cloth and then place it on your face for 10-15 minutes.
Perform this several times a day if necessary but make sure to place a barrier between the skin and the ice pack to avoid frostbite.
8. Avoid Strenuous Activity
Exercise is good for your health but after the microneedling session, you should refrain from any vigorous activity for at least one to two days.
Physical activity enhances circulation and can worsen microneedling bruises as it contributes to more blood flow to the area that was treated.
However, it is advisable to avoid intense exercises and only engage in mild exercises such as walking or taking part in gentle yoga till the skin is healed.
9. Eat a Healthy Diet
It is crucial to note that your diet directly influences the skin healing process after microneedling. Consuming foods that are high in vitamins and minerals may be useful in lessening the occurrence of microneedling bruises.
Oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers are some of the valuable sources of Vitamin C which help in creating collagen and improve the elasticity of blood vessels and therefore prevent bruising. Also, including foods that are rich in Vitamin K such as spinach, kale and broccoli will assist your body in healing faster.
10. Get Plenty of Rest
Sleep is one of the most critical aspects of the healing process for your body. Getting sufficient sleep before and after the microneedling treatment allows the body to recuperate and heal effectively.
It is recommended that you should sleep for 7-9 hours every day and ensure that your head is raised as you sleep. Elevation prevents blood from accumulating in the face area thus minimizing the probability of having microneedling bruises.
How Long Do Microneedling Bruises Last?
Bruising after the microneedling session is expected to last at most 3-7 days. The time taken may differ with the skin type, the size of the needle, and the after-care process exercised after the procedure. Bruises may start as dark purple or blue and gradually fade to a yellow or green hue before disappearing entirely.
To avoid complications and speed up the healing process, it is vital to adhere to the above guidelines, particularly the use of an ice pack and adequate water intake. Most of the time, the bruises fade on their own in about a week, but in case you continue seeing that discolouration, it might be helpful to try other options such as the arnica or Vitamin K cream for fast healing.
What Should You Do If You Have a Severe Microneedling Bruise?
In case you find yourself with a severe form of microneedling bruises, then do not freak out. Swelling can occur and this is more common for those who have sensitive skin and when deeper needles are used during the treatment session. Here are a few steps to take:
- Continue Icing: Make sure to use ice on the injured spot for 10-15 minutes each time and repeat it several times a day. This aids in decreasing inflammation as well as bruising.
- Elevate the Area: If the bruising is on the face, you should ensure you keep the head high in order not to exacerbate the swelling. This will help in the reduction of blood pooling and turn decrease swelling.
- Apply Arnia: Arnica gel or cream can be applied on the affected area if you have not done so already. It can significantly alleviate the degree of the bruise and contribute to regenerative processes.
- Avoid Heat and Sun: Do not expose the affected part to direct sunlight or heat as this will only worsen the injury. Heat can increase blood flow to the area and deepen the discolouration.
- Use of Makeup for Concealment: If the bruise is very vivid, you may decide to apply a concealer that masks it. Choose a good concealer that is close to your skin tone and ensure that the concealer is not harsh on the skin especially if you have sensitive skin.
In case the area is sore, red or failed to heal after a few days, then consulting your healthcare provider could be a good idea.
When Should You See a Doctor After Microneedling?
While microneedling is generally safe, there are some situations where it’s important to see a doctor:
- Persistent or Severe Bruising: If a bruise does not show signs of gradually healing after one week or starts worsening, you are encouraged to seek medical attention. In Advanced cases, severe bruising may imply that there is a health complication that requires medical attention.
- Signs of Infection: If after the treatment you experience redness that forms a ring, warmth, pus or increased pain around the treatment zone it can be a sign of infection. Microneedling complications are fairly uncommon; however, they may surface if appropriate post-treatment measures are not observed.
- Unusual Skin Reactions: If you start to experience hives, severe swelling or any other form of allergy after microneedle, then it is important to seek medical attention. This may be a reaction to a product that was used in the treatment or it may be as a result of a particular disease.
- Delayed Healing: In case you do not find your skin responding in the right way or feel that something is not right with you, then do not take a chance. Sometimes, a slow recovery rate may be a sign of an underlying problem that requires the attention of a healthcare provider.
Most of the time, microneedling bruises are not severe, and they heal without needing medical intervention. But knowing when to consult a doctor will go a long way in enhancing the health of your skin as well as retaining the beauty of the results obtained.
Frequently Asked Questions About Microneedling
- Is microneedling uncomfortable?Although microneedling occasionally hurts, most people don't experience any pain. To decrease discomfort during the treatment, the majority of physicians apply topical numbing lotions or gels.
- What is the duration of microneedling?The size of the treatment region and the particular issues being addressed will determine how long a microneedling session lasts. On the other hand, the majority of procedures need 30 to 60 minutes.
- How many procedures do I have to undergo?How often you undergo microneedling procedures varies according to your skin type and your goals. After a course of three to six treatments spaced several weeks apart, many people see a difference.
- After microneedling, can I wear makeup? After a microneedling session, it's usually advised to wait at least 24 hours before wearing makeup to allow your skin to heal properly.
- Is microneedling suitable for all skin types?Generally speaking, microneedling is safe for most skin types. That might not be appropriate, though, for people with certain skin problems, such as psoriasis or aggressive acne.
- How long does microneedling take to produce results?Although some people may experience skin changes right away, the full effects of microneedling usually take a few weeks or months to show.
- Is microneedling a long-term fix? Microneedling is not a long-term fix. Although the procedure's effects may endure for several months, routine maintenance procedures could be required to keep the best possible outcome.
Conclusion
Microneedling is a wonderful aesthetic technique that can give you even, glowing skin. However, microneedling bruises can be an unwanted side effect that detracts from your results. By following the 10 tips outlined in this blog—such as choosing a reputable provider, using a numbing cream, avoiding blood thinners, and applying a cold compress—you can significantly reduce your chances of bruising and enjoy a quicker, smoother recovery.
Remember, the key to a successful microneedling experience is choosing a skilled provider and following their aftercare instructions closely. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and voice any concerns you may have; your provider is there to help you achieve the best results possible. Transform your skin with our premium products Shop Now at Diaminy Aesthetics to experience radiant, youthful skin like never before.
