If you’re booked for a SkinPen® microneedling treatment at Iconic Upgrades, get excited — this is one of the most effective, non-invasive ways to stimulate collagen, refine pores, and refresh dull skin. Whether your goal is smoother texture, fewer fine lines, or overall rejuvenation, here’s exactly how to prepare, what to expect after treatment, and how to safely care for your skin while it heals.
How to Prepare Before Your Appointment
Proper prep helps your skin respond beautifully and shortens recovery. Here’s what to do:
1. Pause active skincare for 3–5 days.
Avoid using retinol or prescription retinoids, AHA/BHA acids (like glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid), benzoyl peroxide, exfoliating masks or scrubs, and strong Vitamin C serums.
2. Avoid sun exposure and tanning.
Do not use self-tanner, visit tanning beds, or spend prolonged time in the sun for at least a week before your appointment.
3. Skip injectables and waxing.
Botox, filler, waxing, or dermaplaning should be done either two weeks before or two weeks after microneedling.
4. Arrive clean and hydrated.
Come to your appointment with a clean face — no makeup, SPF, or skincare — and drink plenty of water for 48 hours leading up to your treatment. Hydrated skin heals faster and responds better.
What to Expect After SkinPen®
Your skin will go through a short healing process after treatment. Here’s a realistic timeline of what you may experience and how to care for your skin:
Immediately to 24 hours after:
Your skin may feel warm, tight, and look pink or flushed — like a mild sunburn. Only use the post-care products your esthetician provides. Avoid touching your face, sweating, or wearing makeup.
24 to 48 hours after:
You may notice light dryness or swelling. Continue using your hydrating serum and gentle moisturizer. If you’re going outdoors, you may apply a mineral-based sunscreen.
Days 3 to 5:
Some mild flaking or tightness is normal as new skin cells form. Do not pick or exfoliate. Focus on gentle hydration and barrier support.
Days 5 to 7:
Your skin begins to feel smoother, softer, and more radiant. You can start adding some of your usual products back into your routine (see below).
Weeks 2 to 4:
Collagen remodeling continues beneath the surface, revealing firmer, healthier-looking skin. Results improve with each session, especially when performed in a series of three.
When to Restart Active Skincare
After your first week of healing, you can slowly reintroduce actives. Always listen to your skin — if it feels tight or sensitive, wait another day or two.
- Retinol: Wait 5–7 days. Try GlyMed+ Retinol Restart Rejuvenation Serum.
- Vitamin C: Wait 5–7 days. Try GlyMed+ Vitamin C Serum 20%.
- Exfoliating Acids: Wait 7–10 days. Try GlyMed+ AHA Accelerator.
- Acne Spot Treatments: Wait 5–7 days. Use GlyMed+ Serious Action Sulfur Masque only as needed.
If you’re unsure about any product in your routine, text a photo of it to your Iconic Upgrades esthetician and we’ll help you confirm if it’s safe to resume.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Schedule a series of 3 SkinPen® sessions, spaced four weeks apart.
- Use medical-grade skincare (like GlyMed+ and Hydrinity) between visits.
- Apply SPF daily to protect your new collagen.
- Avoid tanning, saunas, and exfoliation for at least one week post-treatment.
- Add LED Light Therapy to help redness fade faster and promote healing.
Product Pickup & Support
All recommended products are available through Iconic Upgrades. Message us for a direct link or book a consultation for a customized experience.
We offer:
- In-studio pickup at our Birmingham, Vestavia Hills, and Troy locations.
- Reserve-ahead product pickup before or after your appointment.
- Same-day product holds for post-treatment care essentials.
Simply text or DM us to reserve your products — we’ll have them ready for you!
Ready to Book?
Experience the collagen-boosting, skin-smoothing benefits of SkinPen® microneedling at Iconic Upgrades. Our licensed estheticians customize every treatment and provide the highest quality aftercare to help your skin heal beautifully.
📍 Locations: Birmingham • Vestavia Hills • Troy, Alabama