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The question, “Can I get Botox after microneedling?” shows that you care about your skin and want the best results. Good for you! Being impatient, spending all that money, and ending up with terrible results isn’t in anyone’s best interest, especially yours.
I haven’t had Botox, but I’m considering a round of microneedling. I know people who started with microneedling and then added Botox to the treatment plan.
I’ve been researching both options and have found interesting facts about each process and how they work together. For example, I’ve discovered that you can (in some cases) get Botox within 24 – 48 hours after microneedling, but you have to wait about two weeks to get microneedling after Botox.
I’ll explain the reasoning behind that in this post, while answering the question, “Can I get Botox after microneedling?”
This post explains how these treatments work together, why the order matters, and what experts have to say.
Disclaimer
This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with a licensed medical provider or dermatologist before starting or combining any cosmetic treatments like Botox or microneedling. Individual results and recommendations may vary.
Do You Need Botox AND Microneedling?
You don’t “need” Botox or microneedling at all!
This is a personal choice you can make. I watched my mother and my sisters (they’re 18 years older than I am) age gracefully without the help of any fillers or injections. They looked perfectly fine to me!
That said, there’s nothing wrong with getting a beauty boost from two very popular forms of cosmetic treatment.
So, let’s say you’ve decided to have both treatments. You’ve booked an appointment, had your consultation, prepped your skin according to the clinic’s instructions, and gone for your microneedling appointment.
Now what?
Okay, let’s say you’ve had your microneedling procedure. Your skin might be a little red. It might even feel like a mild sunburn for the next couple of days.
Do you want to top that off with Botox injections so soon after?
If you get Botox injections too soon after microneedling, it could irritate the skin even more. This can lead to potential side effects like swelling, redness, or even skin infections.
Can I Get Botox After Microneedling? What the Experts Say
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends spacing out skin treatments for optimal results. That way, you avoid irritating the skin and risking infection.
It’s better to wait
The recommended time to wait to schedule Botox after microneedling depends on the clinic and the individual. Some clinics will do both procedures on the same day. That said, many professionals recommend waiting three to five days. If you can wait a full two weeks, that’s even better.
Why It’s Safer to Get Botox AFTER Microneedling
Timing matters when you combine these treatments. It’s safer to get Botox after a microneedling treatment, not the other way around.
If you get Botox first, and then get microneedling shortly after, there’s a risk that the Botox could migrate beyond the intended treatment area.
The side-effects of this can include:
- facial asymmetry (one side of your face could move differently from the other)
- drooping eyelid or brow (ptosis)
- difficulty speaking or smiling
How long does the unwanted Botox migration last?
The effects of unintended Botox migration should start to improve within four to six weeks as your body starts breaking down the toxin.
Can I Get Botox After Microneedling? The Answer is Different for Everyone
The reason there seem to be a few different answers to the question, “Can I get Botox after microneedling?” is because of the numerous factors that come into play.
For example, just because someone says it’s safe to get Botox right after microneedling doesn’t mean it’s true for everyone.
The following are good reasons why you may need to wait a little longer to get Botox after microneedling:
Skin Sensitivity and Healing Response
Some people have naturally sensitive skin that requires a longer healing time. Your age also plays a role in how fast your skin bounces back after microneedling.
Collagen production drops naturally as we age. Someone in their mid-to-late 20s may only need a couple of days to heal, while someone in their 50s might need a full week or more. The more you lack natural elastin production, the longer it can take for your skin to heal.
Depth of Microneedling
There’s a big difference in the depth of the microneedles used in a clinical setting versus using a microneedling pen at home. For example, the needle depth used in a clinical setting ranges from 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm.
On the other hand, at-home microneedling devices only penetrate the epidermis, which is the top layer of skin. The needles are less than 0.5 mm in length
Since you’re only working with the surface level of your skin, you may not need to wait as long to get Botox after microneedling.
Deeper treatments (for acne scars or deeper wrinkles) cause more trauma to the skin’s surface and take longer to heal. If you’ve had deep microneedling, wait closer to 10 to 14 days before Botox.
Presence of Skin Irritation
If microneedling leaves your skin red, inflamed, and irritated, you should wait until it calms down before receiving Botox treatment.
Combination with Other Products
If your microneedling treatment included the use of hyaluronic acid, platelet-rich plasma, or other serums, they can impact healing time.
Some ingredients might make the skin more reactive and may extend healing time.
Discover More About the Benefits of Botox and Microneedling With These Great Posts!
Can You Drink Alcohol Before Botox? 5 Risks You Should Know
Top 5 Best Numbing Creams for Microneedling OTC
5 Pros and Cons of Microneedling vs a Chemical Peel
5 Advanced Benefits of Aquagold vs Microneedling
Get the Best of Both Worlds With a Botox Facial
If you’re not happy with the answer to “Can I get Botox after microneedling?” you’re in luck.
Botox facials are a type of skin treatment that combines Botox with other ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and sometimes platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
Instead of targeting specific muscles like traditional Botox treatments, the facial uses very small doses of Botox just beneath the skin’s surface. This procedure can be combined with microneedling because it isn’t injected deep within the facial muscles.
Instead, a Botox facial uses microneedling or stamping devices with tiny needles to deliver a diluted mix of Botox (with other serums) into the surface of your skin.
With this procedure, you don’t have to ask the question, “Can I get Botox after microneedling?” In this case, both treatments are combined to give you the best results with fewer risks of skin damage.
No “frozen” look!
A Botox facial is great for people who don’t want their facial expressions to change. The treatment results in smoother skin and a more youthful glow without temporary muscle paralysis.
Doesn’t Treat Deep Wrinkles
A Botox facial is a minimally invasive procedure that usually lasts between four to six weeks. Unfortunately, it’s not designed to treat deep wrinkles. The reason is that it doesn’t penetrate the skin as deeply as traditional Botox or microneedling.
What you will get, however, is improved skin texture. It can help reduce oiliness, shrink large pores, and smooth out fine lines. The bonus is being able to keep your natural facial movements.
Summary: Can I Get Botox After Microneedling?
The short answer to the question, “Can I get Botox after microneedling?” is yes, as long as the timing is right.
Before combining Botox and microneedling, talk to a licensed medical provider who understands how to safely use both options. You should expect them to suggest spacing your treatments to give your skin time to recover.
Your injector will be able to tell you how long to wait before getting Botox after microneedling. Most providers recommend waiting at least 3 to 5 days, but for deeper treatments or more sensitive skin, 10 to 14 days is safer.
At the end of the day, it’s always best to heed your provider’s instructions. Avoid strenuous exercise and sun exposure after your treatment, and be patient while your skin heals. Ultimately, the best way to reap the benefits of Botox and microneedling is to follow the instructions of your medical providers.