Microneedling is generally suitable for individuals aged 18 and older. There are indications for acne treatments with microneedling, these cases would require parental consent if under the age of 18.

Considerations for treatment: 

Preventative Care: Beginning treatments in your late teens to early twenties can help prevent the early signs of ageing, such as fine lines and loss of elasticity.

Skin Issues: Many young adults experience acne scars or other skin concerns. Microneedling can effectively address these issues and promote skin renewal.

Collagen Boost: Starting early can enhance collagen production, leading to healthier skin over time. Collagen levels naturally decline with age, so initiating treatments early can help maintain skin youthfulness.

While microneedling is a safe and effective treatment for many, certain individuals should avoid it. Here are the main contraindications:

1. Active Skin Infections:
   Individuals with active infections, such as herpes simplex (cold sores), bacterial infections, or fungal infections, should not undergo microneedling to prevent worsening the condition.
2. Inflammatory skin Conditions:
   Those with inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis should avoid microneedling, as it can irritate the skin further.
3. History of keloid Scarring:
   People prone to keloid scarring (overgrowth of scar tissue) should refrain from microneedling, as it may trigger excessive healing responses.
4. Pregnant or breastfeeding Women:
   Due to hormonal changes and potential sensitivities, it’s generally recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women avoid microneedling.
5. Use of certain Medications:
   Individuals on anticoagulants (blood thinners) or certain topical medications, like retinoids, should consult their healthcare provider, as these can increase bleeding or skin sensitivity.
6. Uncontrolled diabetes:
   Individuals with uncontrolled diabetes may have compromised healing, making microneedling inadvisable.
7. Recent cosmetic procedures:
   Those who have had recent facial surgeries, laser treatments, or chemical peels should wait until their skin has fully healed before considering microneedling.
8. Allergic reactions:
   Individuals with known allergies to metals or topical anesthetics used during the procedure should avoid microneedling.

Most individuals experience minimal downtime. You may have some redness and slight swelling similar to a mild sunburn, which usually subsides within a few days.

Ideally, you would book your appointment when you know you can have at least 12 hours without applying makeup.

You may experience some skin shedding at days 5-7, so it is important to time your appointment around your schedule.

Here are two very important aftercare instructions;  aftercare information will be explained to you in-clinic 

Protect your skin from the sun: Sunburn can negatively impact the results of microneedling and the new collagen induction process. 

Here’s how:
Increased Sensitivity: After microneedling, your skin is more sensitive and vulnerable. sun exposure can lead to irritation, redness, and discomfort.

• Impaired Healing: Sunburn can hinder the skin’s healing process. Excessive UV exposure can damage the newly created collagen and elastin fibers, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Risk of Hyperpigmentation: Exposure to sunlight can increase the risk of hyperpigmentation in treated areas, leading to uneven skin tone and dark spots.

After microneedling, it’s generally recommended to avoid “active” skincare ingredients for about 3 to 7 days. Active ingredients include:

• Retinoids: Can cause irritation to freshly treated skin.
• AHAs/BHAs: Such as glycolic or salicylic acid, which can be too harsh.
• Vitamin C: High concentrations may irritate the skin post-treatment.
• Exfoliants: Avoid physical or chemical exfoliants that can stress the skin.

First 24 hours: Stick to gentle, hydrating products only.