Microneedling is one of the most effective ways to rejuvenate your skin naturally — improving tone, texture, fine lines, and overall glow. Whether you’re scheduling a SkinPen® microneedling or PRP/PRF microneedling session, proper preparation is key to achieving the best results.

At Authentic Medical, PLLC, serving Scottsdale, Glendale, and the Greater Phoenix area, we guide every patient through a personalized pre- and post-treatment plan to ensure optimal skin health and comfort. One of the most important steps? Pausing certain skincare products before your microneedling appointment.

Why Prepping Matters

Microneedling works by creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin to trigger collagen production. Because your skin barrier becomes temporarily more sensitive, it’s important to stop using any irritating, exfoliating, or active ingredients ahead of your treatment. Doing so helps:

• Minimize redness and irritation
• Prevent post-treatment sensitivity
• Ensure smoother healing and better results

Products to Stop Before Microneedling

Here’s what to pause 3–5 days before your appointment (or as directed by your provider):

1. Retinoids and Retinol

Stop all retinoid products (prescription tretinoin or over-the-counter retinol). These can thin the outer skin layer and increase sensitivity during treatment.

2. Exfoliating Acids

Avoid products containing AHAs (like glycolic or lactic acid) and BHAs (like salicylic acid). These chemical exfoliants can make the skin more reactive and lead to excessive peeling afterward.

3. Vitamin C Serums

While great for brightening, vitamin C can be too stimulating when used right before microneedling. Pause use and resume once the skin has fully healed (usually within 3–5 days).

4. Harsh Scrubs or Manual Exfoliants

Skip physical exfoliants like scrubs or brushes. Your provider will cleanse and prep your skin professionally before treatment.

5. Waxing, Threading, or Laser Treatments

Avoid hair removal or other resurfacing treatments for at least one week prior, as these can irritate the skin or cause inflammation when combined with microneedling.

6. Topical Acne Medications

Stop using benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, or other drying acne treatments for several days. These products can cause dryness or stinging post-treatment.

Additional Pre-Treatment Tips

To ensure your skin is in its best condition before microneedling:

• Stay hydrated — both inside and out.
• Avoid sunburn or tanning before treatment.
• Skip alcohol and blood-thinning supplements for 24 hours.
• Arrive with clean skin — no makeup, lotion, or sunscreen.

When to Resume Your Products

Most patients can gradually reintroduce active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C about 3–5 days after microneedling, once redness has subsided and the skin feels calm. Your provider will give you tailored instructions based on your skin type and treatment depth.

Why Choose Authentic Medical, PLLC for Microneedling

At Authentic Medical, PLLC, your microneedling treatment is performed by licensed medical professionals using the FDA-cleared SkinPen® device for safe, consistent results. Our advanced protocols often pair microneedling with PRP/PRF (platelet-rich plasma or fibrin) to naturally boost collagen and healing.

We proudly serve Scottsdale, Arcadia, McCormick Ranch, Paradise Valley, Glendale, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and surrounding communities — helping you achieve radiant, youthful skin in Arizona’s challenging desert climate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use retinol before microneedling?
No. Stop all retinol or tretinoin at least 3–5 days before your treatment.

Can I wear makeup before my appointment?
No. Arrive with clean, product-free skin to reduce infection risk.

How soon can I use vitamin C after microneedling?
Usually after 3–5 days, once your skin has fully calmed and any redness has subsided.

Is it okay to moisturize before treatment?
Yes, but use a simple, fragrance-free moisturizer only — nothing active or exfoliating.

Prep Smart, Glow Beautifully

Prepping your skin properly helps ensure your microneedling results are smooth, even, and glowing. The more you protect and nourish your skin before treatment, the better your outcome will be.

Call today at (602) 686-7135 to schedule your free estimate!