Enhancing Skin Post-Microneedling: Skincare and Makeup Recommendations
In the domain of non-invasive cosmetic treatments, microneedling stands out for its speed and efficacy. This procedure uses tiny needles to create microscopic punctures on the skin, stimulating collagen production and thereby improving skin texture, firmness, and tone. Dr. Manish Shah, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Denver, explains the process and its benefits. Although the recovery time is brief, it is essential to treat your skin with extra care in the days following a microneedling session. This includes being mindful of the skincare and makeup products you use. For skincare, avoid any potentially irritating substances such as acids and retinoids. Instead, opt for simple, gentle, and hydrating cleansers and moisturizers.
When it comes to makeup, your skin will likely be slightly red after the treatment, making it understandable that you might want to cover this up. However, it is not advisable to use just any foundation. Initially, it is best to go without makeup and allow your skin some time to heal. Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, a board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York City, suggests avoiding foundation for 24 to 48 hours post-treatment. This is because the micro-wounds created by the needles need time to heal. After this period, you can resume using foundation, but with caution. Ensure the foundation is free of oil and silicone to prevent clogged pores and choose a hydrating formula to counteract any dryness. Additionally, look for products with SPF, preferably those that use mineral blockers like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, as chemical sunscreens may cause irritation. Here are eight products that meet these criteria.
AmorePacific Color Control Cushion Compact Broad Spectrum SPF50+ ($60)
This cushion compact bridges the gap between skincare and makeup, offering essential mineral sun protection and antioxidants to combat free-radical damage. Dr. Y. Claire Chang, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, favors this product for its lightweight texture.
Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36 ($55)
Dr. Frank recommends using a tinted moisturizer instead of a foundation in the days following microneedling. Tinted moisturizers are lighter and less likely to clog pores. This particular product provides deep hydration, offers a surprising level of coverage, and leaves a radiant finish. Although it comes in only one shade, it blends remarkably well across various skin tones.
SkinBetter Sunbetter Tone Smart SPF 68 Sunscreen Compact ($55)
Dr. Jennifer MacGregor, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, suggests this option for those with warm or deep skin tones. The formula adapts to individual skin tones, providing ample mineral-based sun protection and being gentle enough not to irritate freshly treated skin.
Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation ($66)
Both Dr. MacGregor and Dr. Chang recommend this foundation for its excellent coverage and lightweight, breathable texture. It also contains soothing ingredients like aloe and grapeseed extract, which help calm the skin.
W3LL People Bio Tint Multi-Action Moisturizer SPF 30 ($29)
Dr. Shah praises this tinted moisturizer for its suitability for sensitive and recovering skin. It is free of potentially irritating parabens and is exceptionally hydrating due to its organic coconut oil base. The inclusion of pure zinc provides effective UV protection.
Colorescience Tint du Soleil SPF 30 ($55)
Dr. Jordan Carqueville, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago, also recommends a tinted moisturizer over a traditional foundation. This product, one of her favorites, has a light, whipped texture, collagen-boosting peptides, and mineral sun blockers. It is available in five shades and is pleasant and buildable.
BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 ($33)
Dr. Shah appreciates the hydrating properties of this multitasker, which contains plant-derived squalene and mineral electrolytes to replenish moisture. It comes in an impressive range of 20 shades, making it one of the most versatile products in this selection.
Dermablend Flawless Creator Multi-Use Liquid Foundation Drops ($40)
Dr. MacGregor recommends the extensive range of Dermablend foundations for those seeking fuller coverage. These innovative drops are super-concentrated and can be mixed with your preferred serum, moisturizer, or sunscreen. They are noncomedogenic, hypoallergenic, and oil-free, making them an excellent choice for sensitive, post-procedure skin.
