PRP Microneedling Post-Care: 7 Expert Tips for a Flawless Recovery
If you’re wondering what PRP microneedling post-care really looks like, you’re in the right place. Many people feel a little unsure after their first session, wondering what’s normal, what to avoid, and how to take care of their skin without messing anything up.
We created this guide using Ashley’s nearly two decades of experience helping clients feel confident and supported through every step of their microneedling journey.
Here, you’ll find everything from practical Microneedling Aftercare Instructions to choosing the best moisturizer after a PRP facial, plus answers to common questions like “How long after microneedling with PRP can I wash my face?” and “How long is the recovery?”
We’re here to make the whole process simple, easy to understand, and stress-free.
Let’s dive in.
Why PRP Microneedling Post-Care Matters
Your skin is in active repair mode after PRP microneedling. Tenderness, redness, or tiny pinpoint scabs are completely normal. And unlike fillers, which work instantly, PRP takes the more natural route, using your own biology to help your skin rebuild itself.
Here’s how that happens.
After your microneedling treatment, collagen starts increasing around day 14 and continues building for up to 3 months. PRP accelerates and amplifies that response thanks to its growth factors like PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, and EGF.
These are the same healing messengers your body uses to repair injuries and regenerate tissue. They signal your skin to produce collagen, boost circulation, and form new, healthier cells.
PRP also boosts collagen production deep in the dermal layer, helping your skin grow firmer and more elastic over time. And while that alone is already incredible, the right PRP microneedling post-care can take your results even further.
A gentle routine helps these growth factors work at their fullest, giving you smoother healing and better, longer-lasting results. So here’s exactly what we recommend to our clients.
Get the Best Results with Our 7 Expert Aftercare Tips
1. Wait Before Washing & Let Your Skin Absorb the Benefits
Microneedling creates tiny channels that allow PRP to penetrate deeply. Washing too soon can wash away your skin’s natural healing signals.
For this reason, Ashley, our Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, always advises against washing your face or applying makeup for at least 24 hours.
The growth factors in PRP begin working immediately and remain highly active for the first 24 hours. Be sure to give them that uninterrupted time to settle in and start repairing.
2. Protect Your Fresh Skin from the Sun and Other Stressors
Your skin is extra sensitive right now. UV rays, sweat, heat, and friction can trigger irritation or slow down collagen formation.
According to Ashley, sun protection now matters more than ever. UV exposure has been shown to interfere with collagen remodeling, the exact process that microneedling and PRP work to boost.
Stay indoors, stay cool, and if you need to be outside after the first 24–48 hours, choose a gentle mineral SPF.
3. Keep Your Routine Gentle and Hydrating
As your moisture barrier is temporarily vulnerable at this point, we recommend keeping things simple.
Choose a soft, fragrance-free cleanser, hydrating serums like hyaluronic acid, and a basic, nourishing moisturizer. (If you come in for treatment with us, Ashley will recommend the exact products your skin needs.)
Research shows microneedling increases ceramide production over time, strengthening the skin barrier. But during early healing, your skin needs calm, gentle support. Avoid retinoids, scrubs, exfoliating acids, and anything that tingles or burns.
If your skin doesn't like it right now, trust that feeling.
4. Know What’s Normal & What’s Not
Itching, flaking, light swelling, or tiny scabs are common after PRP microneedling. These are signs that your skin is rebuilding.
The PRP actually speeds up this process thanks to its anti-inflammatory components that help reduce redness and support faster recovery compared to microneedling alone.
But if something feels off - increasing heat, unusual discharge, or anything worrying - reach out to Ashley or the provider you’re working with. You’re never bothering anyone. You’re taking good care of your skin.
5. Choose a Moisturizer That Helps Your Skin Heal
Stick with a moisturizer or balm recommended by Ashley or your provider. Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and squalane create the perfect healing environment and prevent water loss while your skin forms new collagen.
Studies show that well-hydrated skin actually remodels collagen more effectively, improving texture and elasticity. A simple moisturizer can make a huge difference.
6. Give Your Skin Time Before Your Next Session
PRP isn’t an instant transformation. It’s a natural one.
Here’s what science and years of experience tell us:
PRP growth-factor activity peaks around day 7
Collagen remodeling begins around day 14
Visible changes appear around 4–6 weeks
Best results come from 3–4 sessions, spaced apart
Fun fact: people with naturally higher platelet counts often respond more quickly to PRP because their plasma has a higher concentration of growth factors. So, the results and healing time will naturally vary.
Know that you’re literally growing new collagen, and that requires patience. This slow, steady improvement is the reason PRP looks so natural and never “overdone.” And why our clients enjoy it so much!
7. Simple Habits That Keep Your Glow Going
Your treatment doesn’t end in the clinic. You can shape your results by adjusting your lifestyle, too.
Hydrate well. Sleep well. Eat nutrient-rich foods that support collagen (think vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants). Protect your skin from UV daily. Keep up a gentle skincare routine.
This way, you’re giving your skin what it needs to regenerate at its own pace.
Final Thoughts on PRP Microneedling Aftercare Tips
And that’s your complete roadmap to PRP microneedling post-care. The basics matter most: protect your skin from the sun, stay hydrated, avoid touching or picking, and give your body time to work its natural magic.
PRP microneedling isn’t instant. There’s no filler, no added volume, no artificial change. Just your own growth factors helping your skin rebuild itself, slowly and beautifully.
If you’d like more guidance, from treatment to aftercare, we’d be honored to support you at Luxe Aesthetics Jacksonville. We’ll walk you through every step, make sure you know what to expect, and recommend the products that truly help your skin heal.
You’re always welcome to book a complimentary consultation with our amazing nurse practitioner, Ashley Men, APRN, FNP-C. We can’t wait to help you feel confident, informed, and excited about your skin’s transformation.