How to Use Retinol Safely & Prepare Your Skin for Microneedling

Ellia Borgese
Oct 7
3 min read

By Ellia Aesthetics | Advanced Skin & SPMU Clinic

If you’re serious about achieving smoother, glowing, and more youthful-looking skin, retinol and microneedling are two of the most effective treatments available. When used correctly — and with the right pre and post-care — they can completely transform your skin’s texture, tone, and firmness.

However, both retinol and microneedling are active, results-driven treatments — so they need to be approached carefully to avoid irritation and to get the best results.

Let’s break down exactly how to use retinol safely and how to prepare (and recover) from your microneedling treatment at Ellia Aesthetics.

💛 What Is Retinol and Why Is It So Effective?

Retinol (a form of Vitamin A) speeds up cell turnover, helps to fade pigmentation, reduces breakouts, and boosts collagen.Regular use can:

Smooth fine lines and wrinkles
Brighten dull or uneven skin
Refine pores and texture
Improve overall skin health

But because it’s powerful, your skin needs time to adjust — especially if you’re combining it with other active treatments like microneedling.

🧴 How to Use Retinol Safely

If you’re new to retinol, follow this rule: go low and slow.

Start with:

A low-strength product (0.25–0.5%)
Use twice a week at night for 2–3 weeks, then increase as tolerated
Always apply on dry skin after cleansing
Follow with a hydrating, non-active moisturiser

Never mix retinol with:

AHA/BHA exfoliants
Vitamin C (use this in the morning instead)
Microneedling (more on that below)

✨ Microneedling Pre-Care Guide

To get the best results from your microneedling treatment, your skin needs to be calm, hydrated, and free from irritation.

One week before treatment:

Stop using retinol or any exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA)
Avoid sun exposure or fake tan on the face
Do not have any waxing, threading, or laser treatments on the area
Keep your skin well moisturised and hydrated

24 hours before:

Avoid alcohol and anti-inflammatory medications (they can increase bruising)
Arrive with clean skin — no makeup or SPF

🌿 Microneedling Aftercare Guide

Your skin will be slightly red and sensitive for the first 24–48 hours — similar to mild sunburn. Proper aftercare is key to healing beautifully and achieving those glowing results.

For the first 48 hours:

Do not apply makeup or SPF
Avoid touching your face unnecessarily
Use only a gentle, hydrating serum or balm (your practitioner will recommend one)
Avoid sweating, saunas, swimming, and the gym

For the next 5–7 days:

Continue gentle hydration — hyaluronic acid and barrier creams are ideal
Avoid active ingredients: no retinol, acids, or vitamin C
Use SPF 30+ once the skin has fully settled
Avoid exfoliation until any flaking or dryness has gone

💧 When Can You Reintroduce Retinol After Microneedling?

Wait at least 5–7 days after your treatment, or until your skin feels completely normal (no tightness or dryness).Then start with your retinol once or twice a week again, gradually building up.

Combining microneedling with a consistent retinol routine helps to:

Maximise collagen production
Fade pigmentation and scarring
Keep the skin firm, smooth, and radiant long-term

🌸 In Summary

Retinol and microneedling are a powerhouse duo when used correctly — but timing and care are everything.By preparing your skin properly and following a simple aftercare routine, you’ll achieve faster healing, longer-lasting results, and that signature Ellia Aesthetics glow ✨