Uncovering the Truth: Can You Really Exercise After Microneedling?

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Microneedling has become a popular skincare treatment in recent years due to its ability to effectively improve the appearance of skin texture, tone, and overall complexion. However, for those who prioritize fitness and exercise in their daily routines, a common question arises – can you exercise after microneedling? This is a valid concern as physical activity can affect the healing process of the skin after undergoing this procedure. In this article, we will delve into the relationship between exercise and microneedling to help you make an informed decision on how to incorporate exercise into your post-treatment routine.

Microneedling is a popular cosmetic procedure that involves using tiny needles to create small punctures in the top layer of skin. This promotes collagen production and helps to improve the overall appearance of the skin. It is often used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, scars, and other skin imperfections.

As with any cosmetic procedure, there are certain guidelines that should be followed in order to achieve the best results and minimize any potential risks. One question that often comes up is whether or not it is safe to exercise after microneedling. In this article, we will explore this topic in more detail and provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Benefits of Exercise After Microneedling

Exercise is a crucial part of a healthy lifestyle, and it has numerous benefits for our overall well-being. But what about exercising after microneedling? Can it actually be beneficial for your skin?

The short answer is yes! Exercise can have a positive impact on your skin after microneedling. When we exercise, our heart rate increases which leads to improved blood circulation. This increased blood flow brings oxygen and essential nutrients to our skin cells, promoting their health and vitality.

Exercising after microneedling can also help to speed up the healing process by increasing blood flow to the treated area. This can help reduce downtime and allow you to resume your normal activities sooner.

Furthermore, regular exercise benefits our mental health by reducing stress levels. Stress can have a negative impact on our skin, leading to breakouts and other issues. By exercising after microneedling, you can help maintain a healthy mind and body which will ultimately reflect in your skin.

Precautions Before Exercising After Microneedling

While exercising after microneedling has its benefits, there are certain precautions that should be taken to ensure your safety and the best possible results. Here are some important things to keep in mind before hitting the gym:

1. Wait at least 24-48 hours after microneedling before exercising. This allows your skin enough time to heal and reduces the risk of any complications.

2. Avoid high-intensity workouts that involve excessive sweating for the first 24 hours after microneedling. This can irritate the skin and increase the risk of infection.

3. If you have received microneedling on your face, avoid using any machines or equipment that put pressure on the face, such as weighted bars or yoga mats.

4. Keep your skin hydrated before and after exercising. After microneedling, your skin may feel dry and dehydrated, so make sure to drink plenty of water and use a hydrating moisturizer.

5. If you experience any unusual discomfort or excessive bruising after exercising, contact your aesthetician or doctor immediately.

Exercises That Are Safe To Do After Microneedling

While some types of exercises should be avoided for the first 24-48 hours after microneedling, there are still plenty of safe options that can provide you with a good workout without compromising your results. Here are some exercises that are safe to do after microneedling:

1. Low-impact cardio such as walking, light jogging, or cycling is a great way to get your heart rate up without putting too much pressure on your skin.

2. Yoga is a fantastic option if you want to incorporate more gentle movements into your routine while still getting a good workout.

3. Weight training can also be done safely after microneedling as long as you avoid putting too much weight or pressure on the treated area.

4. Swimming is another excellent low-impact exercise that won’t irritate your skin but still provides a full-body workout.

5. Stretching and foam rolling can also be beneficial after microneedling, as it can help improve blood flow and aid in the healing process.

Post-Exercise Care for Microneedled Skin

After exercising, it is essential to take care of your skin to prevent any complications or delays in the healing process. Here are some post-exercise care tips for microneedled skin:

1. Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser after working out to remove any sweat or bacteria that may have accumulated on your skin.

2. Apply a hydrating moisturizer to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated.

3. Avoid using any harsh products on your skin, such as exfoliators or alcohol-based toners, for at least 24 hours after exercising.

4. Make sure to wear SPF when going outdoors, even if it’s just for a short workout session. Microneedling makes the skin more sensitive to the sun’s UV rays, so protection is crucial.

5. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This will help maintain healthy skin and promote faster healing.

While it is safe to exercise after microneedling,

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling, or Collagen Induction Therapy, is a minimally invasive skin treatment that uses tiny needles to create microchannels in the skin. These microchannels stimulate the body’s natural healing process and promote collagen production, resulting in improved skin texture and firmness. This procedure has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its effectiveness in treating various skin concerns, including wrinkles, scars, and hyperpigmentation.

How Does Microneedling Work?

During a microneedling procedure, a specialized device with tiny needles is used to make micro-injuries on the surface of the skin. These injuries trigger the body’s wound healing response, stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin fibers. As these fibers form, they plump up the skin and improve its elasticity, resulting in smoother and more youthful-looking skin.

Can You Exercise After Microneedling?

The general recommendation from skincare professionals is to avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours after undergoing a microneedling treatment. This includes activities such as running, weightlifting, or any other exercise that causes excessive sweating. Exercising immediately after microneedling may increase blood flow to the face and interfere with the healing process.

Why Should You Avoid Exercise After Microneedling?

Although exercise has numerous benefits for overall health and well-being, it is not advisable directly after a microneedling procedure. Engaging in physical activities that cause excessive sweating can increase irritation and inflammation on the treated areas. Sweating also exposes your skin to bacteria which can lead to infections or clogged pores.

Moreover, exercising increases your heart rate and blood pressure which can further contribute to post-treatment swelling or bruising. The needles used in microneedling create thousands of tiny punctures on the skin’s surface, making it more sensitive to external factors. Activities like exercise can irritate the skin and cause discomfort, prolonging the healing process.

How Long Should You Wait Before Exercising After Microneedling?

As mentioned earlier, it is recommended to avoid exercise for 24 hours after undergoing a microneedling treatment. This allows the skin enough time to close up the microchannels and prevents any additional irritation or damage. It is also essential to avoid putting on makeup or using any topical products on your face during this time.

After 24 hours, it is generally safe to resume light exercises, such as yoga or walking. However, intense exercises that cause sweating should still be avoided for a few more days until any redness or irritation has subsided completely. It is crucial to listen to your body and give it enough time to heal properly before engaging in strenuous activities.

Are There Any Alternatives for Exercising After Microneedling?

If you are an avid gym-goer and cannot afford to skip your workout routine for 24 hours after microneedling, there are a few alternatives you can consider. For starters, you can opt for low-impact activities that do not cause excessive sweating or increase blood flow, such as Pilates or barre exercises.

You can also try scheduling your microneedling treatment after your regular workout session. This way, you can rest for 24 hours without having to worry about missing out on your exercise routine. However, always consult with your skincare professional before making any changes to your post-treatment routine.

Final Thoughts

Microneedling is an excellent treatment option for achieving smoother and more youthful-looking skin. While it is a safe and effective procedure with minimal side effects, it is crucial to follow post-treatment care instructions to ensure optimal results. Avoiding exercise for 24 hours after microneedling is one of the essential post-treatment guidelines that can help you achieve the best possible outcome. Remember, healthy skin starts with proper care and treatment.

1. Can I exercise immediately after microneedling?
No, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before exercising after microneedling. This ensures that your skin has enough time to heal and reduces the risk of infection or irritation.

2. What should I do if I have an active exercise routine and want to get microneedling done?
It is best to schedule your microneedling session on a day where you can take a break from exercising for at least 24 hours. If this is not possible, consider scheduling your appointment early in the morning so that you can exercise later in the day.

3. Is it safe to exercise after microneedling if I am not experiencing any discomfort or redness?
Even if you are not experiencing any immediate side effects, it is still recommended to wait 24 hours before exercising after microneedling. This allows your skin to fully recover and reduces the risk of complications.

4. What types of exercises should I avoid after getting microneedling?
It is best to avoid any high-impact or strenuous exercises that will cause excessive sweating and friction on the treated area. Examples include running, weightlifting, and hot yoga. Opt for low-impact activities like walking or light stretching instead.

5. Can I apply makeup before exercising after microneedling?
It is generally not recommended to apply makeup immediately after microneedling, as it can clog your pores and hinder the healing process. If you must wear makeup, make sure to thoroughly cleanse your face before and after exercising.

6. How will exercising affect my results from microneedling?
Exercising regularly can actually help improve your results from microneedling by increasing blood flow and promoting collagen production in the treated area. However, it is important to follow post-treatment care instructions and avoid exercising too soon after getting microneedling done.

In conclusion, the question of whether one can exercise after microneedling has sparked various opinions and discussions among experts and individuals alike. While there is no clear consensus on the matter, it is important to consider certain factors before engaging in physical activities post-microneedling.

Firstly, it is crucial to follow post-treatment guidelines provided by a licensed professional. This includes avoiding strenuous exercise for at least 24-48 hours and applying sunscreen regularly. It is also recommended to wait for a few days before resuming intense workouts or activities that involve excessive sweating.

Secondly, each individual’s recovery time may vary depending on the depth and intensity of the microneedling treatment. It is essential to listen to your body and avoid any activity that causes discomfort or irritation. In some cases, it may be best to wait a little longer before engaging in physical activities.

Moreover, microneedling aims to promote collagen production and skin rejuvenation, which can be hindered by the strain of exercise immediately after the procedure. Therefore, it is advisable to allow your skin enough time to heal and reap the full benefits of microneedling.

Lastly, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition, hydration, and regular exercise can enhance the results of microneedling

Author Profile

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Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.