What To Use, What to Avoid, and How to Get Real Results
Microneedling is having a major moment. Microneedling creates microchannels that boost ingredient absorption, but is more than just that - it’s also a form of collagen induction therapy that helps renew and strengthen the skin from within.
As this treatment grows in popularity, both in professional settings and at home, understanding which products are safe and effective to use alongside it is essential to prevent irritation and achieve visible results.
During microneedling, tiny microchannels are created in the skin, enhancing product absorption and stimulating new collagen production. This makes it the ideal time to apply targeted serums and actives that support repair, hydration, and firmness — unlocking the full potential of your skincare routine and amplifying results far beyond what topical application alone can deliver.
As microneedling becomes more accessible through at-home tools, experts urge caution and education. While the treatment can deliver transformative results, it’s still a minimally invasive procedure that requires proper guidance and safe product choices.
Microneedling creates tiny, controlled micro-injuries that act like temporary pathways for ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin. During this short window, the skin is especially receptive — allowing beneficial actives to absorb more effectively and lock in as it heals. Once those microchannels close, product absorption naturally becomes less efficient.
Choosing the Right Serums for Microneedling
When choosing a serum to use with microneedling, it’s important to avoid strong actives or exfoliating ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid. While these are great for everyday surface renewal, they can cause irritation and inflammation when pushed deeper into the skin through microneedling.
Instead, focus on soothing, restorative ingredients that support healing and hydration. The most effective choices are hyaluronic acid, growth factors, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and exosomes, which enhance cellular communication and promote regeneration from within.
Product ingredients used for Microneedling procedure
The depth of microneedling determines how different skincare ingredients perform. Hydrophilic actives, such as hyaluronic acid, are best suited for superficial treatments, as they absorb easily and deliver hydration without the need for deep penetration. In contrast, growth factors and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are most effective when introduced deeper into the skin, where they can stimulate repair and regeneration and are used in medical practices.
Oil-based ingredients, like those found in face oils, are not to be used for microneedling. These molecules do not integrate well with the skin’s microchannels and can interfere with healing.
After treatment, it’s normal to experience temporary redness, mild swelling, or light flaking as the skin renews itself. However, if you notice severe swelling, rash, pustules, or persistent burning, consult a professional.
Though microneedling is minimally invasive, it activates the skin’s natural repair and remodeling process. As the skin heals, it retains beneficial ingredients applied during the procedure—leading to increased collagen and elastin production, the foundation of firm, smooth, and resilient skin.
Extend and enhance microneedling results
By creating precise microchannels, microneedling increases the delivery of beneficial ingredients while triggering the skin’s innate healing response — accelerating repair, collagen synthesis, and deep hydration.
Once the skin has recovered, maintaining that renewed glow depends on using the right post-care essentials. Your at-home recovery ritual should focus on hydration, barrier repair, and gentle rejuvenation:
THE HYDRATING TONER – replenishes moisture and restores balance, preparing the skin for optimal absorption.
THE HERBAL GEL MASK - replenishes hydration and soothes irritation, cools the skin, and reduces redness after treatment, leaving the complexion calm and refreshed.
THE PLANT STEM CELL SERUM – delivers peptides and antioxidants to reinforce collagen synthesis and strengthen the skin’s structure.
THE ONERTA® CREAM BARRIER – seals in hydration, supports Aquaporins, and rebuilds barrier lipids for lasting comfort and resilience.
THE DAILY MOISTURIZER – softens, nourishes, and maintains lipid balance, keeping the complexion supple and hydrated throughout the day.
THE LIP TREATMENT – restores moisture and elasticity to delicate lip tissue, often prone to dryness after treatments.
After the skin healing is complete, you might want to introduce these products for pigment combating:
THE META C SERUM – provides a gentle, non-irritating form of Vitamin C to brighten and protect from oxidative stress once the barrier has healed.
THE MANDELIC META SERUM – helps refine texture and address post-inflammatory pigmentation, supporting a more even and radiant complexion without irritation.
Used consistently after recovery, these formulas extend and enhance microneedling results, keeping your skin firm, luminous, and balanced — long after the procedure.
Products to Avoid Immediately After Treatment
- Retinoids (Vitamin A)
- Direct Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
- AHAs/BHAs (glycolic, lactic, salicylic acids)
- Exfoliating scrubs or essential oils
