Discover microneedling at Beauty By Anna Murphy

Somewhere between a relaxing facial and a full-blown cosmetic procedure lies microneedling — a minimally invasive treatment that has quietly become one of the most popular skin rejuvenation options in  clinics. Whether you're battling acne scars, fine lines, uneven texture, or just chasing that lit-from-within glow, microneedling promises real results without the downtime of more aggressive treatments.

But what does the process actually look like from start to finish? If you've been curious — or a little nervous — this guide walks you through everything you need to know before, during, and after your microneedling session.

Before Your Session:

How to Prepare

Preparation starts well before you walk into the clinic. What you do in the days and weeks leading up to treatment can significantly affect your results and your comfort level.

1–2 Weeks Before:

• Stop using retinoids and exfoliating acids. Products containing retinol, tretinoin, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or any active exfoliant should be discontinued at least five to seven days before treatment. These ingredients thin the skin's outer layer and can increase sensitivity and irritation during the procedure.
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Sunburned or heavily tanned skin is more vulnerable to post-treatment complications. Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily — which you should be doing anyway, but now it's non-negotiable.
• Skip blood-thinning supplements. Aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, and certain herbal supplements (like ginkgo biloba) can increase bleeding and bruising. Check with your provider about what to pause.

The Day Of:

• Arrive with a clean face — no makeup, 
• Eat a light meal beforehand. The procedure isn't painful for most people, but going in on an empty stomach is never ideal.
• Communicate openly with your  skin therapist about your skin history, any medications you're taking, and your specific goals. The more they know, the better they can tailor the treatment.

During the Procedure: What It Actually Feels Like

Here's the part most people are most anxious about — and the part that's usually less dramatic than expected.

You may experience a heat sensation or discomfort  by the Microneedling pen.

Some patients liken the sensation to a graze, sunburn , scratch sensation or having a tattoo.

The Treatment

The microneedling device is moved across the skin in systematic passes, covering the entire treatment area evenly. A slip solution s often applied during the procedure to help the device glide smoothly  or add on skin booster to deliver hydration deep into the freshly opened micro-channels.

The entire process typically takes 30 to 50 minutes for a full face, depending on the areas treated and the depth of the needles used. Deeper needle settings (1.5 mm to 2.5 mm) are reserved for more stubborn scars and typically cause more pinpoint bleeding, which is completely normal.

What You'll See Immediately After

When the device is set down, your skin will be red — think moderate sunburn. You might notice some pinpoint bleeding, especially in areas treated at deeper depths. Your face will feel warm and tight, almost like a mild windburn. Your provider will typically apply a calming serum, a hydrating mask, or a growth-factor solution to soothe the skin and kickstart healing.

After the Procedure: Recovery and Aftercare

This is where patience pays off. Your skin just went through a controlled injury, and how you treat it over the next few days and weeks directly impacts your results.

Days 1–3: The Healing Phase

• Redness and swelling are normal and usually peak within the first 24 -72 hours before gradually subsiding. Most people look and feel significantly better by day three.
• Avoid touching your face as much as possible. Your skin's barrier is temporarily compromised, making it more susceptible to bacteria and irritation.
• Skip makeup for at least 24 hours — ideally 48. When you do resume, use clean brushes and mineral amount of  products.
• Use only gentle, fragrance-free products. I will likely recommend a simple routine: a mild cleanser, a hydrating serum (hyaluronic acid is your best friend here), and a rich, moisturiser.
• No active ingredients. Retinoids, vitamin C serums, AHAs, BHAs, and exfoliants are off-limits for at least five to seven days post-treatment.
• Sunscreen is critical. Your freshly treated skin is extremely photosensitive. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning without exception, and reapply throughout the day if you're outdoors.

Days 3–7: Peeling and Renewal

• Some patients experience mild flaking or peeling as the skin sheds its damaged outer layer. This is a normal part of the regeneration process. Resist the urge to pick or scrub — let it happen naturally.
• Hydration is your top priority. Drink plenty of water and keep your skin moisturized.
• Most people feel comfortable returning to work and social activities by day two or three, with any residual redness easily covered by tinted sunscreen or light mineral makeup.

Weeks 2–6: Results Start to Show

Collagen remodelling doesn't happen overnight. While you might notice an initial glow once the redness fades, the real improvements — smoother texture, softened scars, firmer skin — develop gradually over four to six weeks as new collagen and elastin fibers form and strengthen.

For optimal results, most providers recommend a series of three to six sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart. Maintenance treatments once or twice a year can help sustain the benefits long-term.

Managing Expectations: What Microneedling Can and Can't Do

Microneedling is powerful, but it's not magic. It works best as part of a consistent skincare strategy that includes sun protection, proper hydration, and targeted active ingredients used between sessions.

It excels at improving texture, tone, and mild to moderate scarring. It can soften fine lines and give skin a noticeably healthier appearance over time. However, deep wrinkles, severe acne scarring, and significant skin laxity may require more intensive treatments — such as fractional laser resurfacing, deeper chemical peels, or surgical options — sometimes in combination with microneedling.

How often will I have microneedling treatment?

4-6 sessions of microneedling are normally required and the treatments will be a minimum of 4 weeks apart.

It may take up to 3months or more than one treatment to notice an improvement.

If you are receiving other treatments e.g. laser therapy or LPG the down-time between treatments may vary.

What are the side effects?

Immediately after treatment your skin may feel warm and look red, similar to sunburn. The redness should improve 1- 2 days post treatment.

The treated area may be painful or feel tight for 1-3 days following the treatment. You may notice some peeling of the skin.

You may have some pinpoint bleeding at time of treatment but should not require a dressing. 

Your skin pigment may change temporarily or permanently; it may get lighter or darker.

There is a small risk of infection, this can be minimised by keeping the treated area clean and following post-treatment advice.

You will be provided aftercare  advice  before you leave

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Do you have active skin cancer?

Do you have an allergy to local anaesthetic?

Do you have active bacterial, fungal or viral skin infections (e.g. herpes or cold sores)?

Are you pregnant? Please let us know if you are nursing.

Have you ever been told you have a Keloid scar?

Sun exposure 7 days prior to treatment? 

On Blood Thinner? 

Full consultation form will be given.