The popular Dermapen therapy for skin rejuvenation significantly reduces a variety of issues. In order to create fractional puncture channels on the skin's surface, micro-fine needles are modified to varying depths and speeds as part of the operation. Microneedling is a completely natural procedure that, in contrast to injectable treatments, encourages the body's inherent ability to repair and renew itself by producing collagen and elastin.

That said, the process of dermapen has some downtime, and there are certain habits and precautions to follow for an effective and efficient recovery. In this article, we focus on some practical tips to take care of your skin before and after the dermapen treatment, as most dermatologists in Abu Dhabi recommend.

Precautions before the dermapen treatment

1. In the six months before you start your dermapen treatment sessions, stay away from Accutane.
2. Avoid using topical medications like retinoids, exfoliants, topical antibiotics, or acids 5-7 days before your treatment if they can make your skin more sensitive.
3. Ibuprofen, Motrin, and Advil should not be taken for at least three days before your micro-needling procedure. These will obstruct the normal inflammatory process, which is essential for the renewal of your skin.
4. For as least two weeks previous to your dermapen procedure, refrain from IPL/Laser treatments, unprotected sun exposure, or sunburn.
5. No electrolysis, waxing, or application of depilatory lotions to the region being treated for 5-7 days beforehand.
6. To prevent skin irritation on the day of the surgery, do not shave. Shave the area the day before your visit if there is thick hair in the treatment area.
7. Take an antiviral medication for two days prior to the treatment and the day of it if you are prone to cold sores.
8. Because bruising is a frequent adverse effect of micro-needling, refrain from using blood thinners for one week before your procedure.

The precautions to take after the dermapen treatment is as important as the preparation to days leading up to D-Day (pun intended). Let’s see what those are below.

Post-treatment precautions for dermapen treatment

1. Take no anti-inflammatory drugs for a week following the dermapen treatment.
2. Avoid applying ice to your face and staying away from arnica/bromelain. These could obstruct the normal inflammatory process necessary for skin renewal.
3. Avoid getting sunburned for at least two weeks and spend a lot of time in the sun. Always use sunscreen (30 SPF or greater) after 24 hours, and if you're outside, wear a helmet.
4. If you feel any ache, take a pain reliever like Tylenol.

Although following advice for post-care of dermapen by your dermatologists in Abu Dhabi is ideal, depending on your medical history and skin type, your journey to the end result may go through the following phases:

Day 1-3

Normal results may resemble a sunburn. Your skin can feel tight, dry, or touchably sensitive. Use lukewarm water and a moderate cleanser to wash the skin, then pat it dry with just your hands no sooner than four hours after treatment.

In some situations, patients may also experience brief swelling for 2-4 days and mild bruising that can remain for 5-7 days in addition to minor redness.

Day 2-5

Three to five days following the therapy, peeling may begin. Due to a higher skin cell turnover rate, you'll feel flaking and dryness of the skin. AVOID picking, scratching, and rubbing the treated skin!

Day 5-7

Once your skin is no longer itchy, you can resume using your usual skin care products. The majority of our patients have reported that their skin has continued to get better in the months since their previous treatment.

According to your individualized care plan, we advise repeat microneedling treatments every 4-6 weeks for the greatest results. A series of 3-5 treatments is also advised.

Other important tips for skin care after dermapen treatment

CLEAN – For the next 48 hours, wash your face with a calming cleanser or face wash and tepid water. Then, gently pat the skin that has been treated dry. When contacting the treated area, make sure your hands are always clean. 

HYDRATE – Your skin could feel dryer than usual after your Dermapen treatment. 

STIMULATE – Collagen-stimulating peptides are the best way to maintain the stimulation in the days following your Dermapen treatment while the skin begins to heal. 

MAKEUP – It is advised to wait 12 hours before applying makeup after the surgery. Apply makeup with a fresh makeup brush. 

PROTECT – Apply a broad spectrum SPF30 UVA/UVB sunscreen right away after the surgery.

Conclusion

One of the safest methods for skin renewal is dermapen therapy. It is ideal for people who are reluctant to undergo more intrusive treatments because it doesn't require a lengthy recovery period. By following the best practices and precautions discussed above, treatment works effectively and efficiently for most of the patients. However, in case of discomfort or concerns, consult your dermatologist in Abu Dhabi at the earliest.