Is Skin Peeling After Microneedling Normal

Should I worry if my skin peels after microneedling?

The peeling that occurs after microneedling is the shedding of old, damaged skin. It allows for the production of healthy melanocytes, which can actually decrease hyperpigmentation (darkening of an area of the skin) caused by abnormal melanocytes.

It is common for skin to peel after microneedling treatments. Microneedling creates a large number of tiny punctures in the skin, which your body responds to by initiating repair. A new layer of skin is produced and the old skin may begin to peel. This peeling is minimal (similar to a mild sunburn) and usually subsides within a few days.

After a microneedling procedure, it is also common to have a scabby texture around the treated area. The extent of the scabbing generally depends on the depth of the microneedling treatment. If you have any concerns, contact your doctor for a follow-up appointment.

There are many benefits to having a microneedling procedure:

	Hyperpigmentation Post-procedure, when the skin begins to shed, it will allow the production of normal melanocytes, which will rid you of hyperpigmentation caused by abnormal melanocytes.
	Age spots As the skin peels, it minimizes the age spot appearance on your skin, making you look younger.
	Wrinkles, scars, face lines, and stretch marks As the skin peels post-procedure, the new skin underneath will have a fresh, clean, younger look.

Purpose of Microneedling

The goal of microneedling is to create a controlled injury that induces the body’s natural, wound healing response. This process triggers the production of collagen in the treated area, laying down elastin fibers like a tight web of skin. In turn, the skin thickens and becomes plump which smoothes out fine lines and wrinkles, improving the look and texture of the skin.

Additionally, studies have shown that patients whose skin was pre-treated with topical Vitamin C creams experienced a notable measure of growth in elastin and collagen fibers following microneedling treatments, resulting in younger looking skin.

Microneedling Side Effects and Post-Procedure Care

Where side effects may vary, microneedling is generally well tolerated by patients, is cost effective, and can be performed on all skin types. The resulting puncture holes close within 60 to 90 minutes, making infections unlikely. Some erythema (redness of the skin due to inflammation) may appear after treatment, typically lasting 2 to 3 days. Skin may also feel warm, tight, and itchy for up to 48 hours. 

It is recommended that patients stay out of the sun for one week following treatment, and antibiotic creams may be prescribed. Microneedling is also safe for sensitive areas, such as near the eyes, that are not suitable for some treatments like peeling and skin resurfacing. Microneedling with Dermapen may be combined with other acne scar treatments like subcision, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and fractional resurfacing, thus optimizing the benefits to patients.