Who Should Wait or Skip Microneedling
The FDA lists several groups who may not be suitable for microneedling. They include people with bleeding or clotting disorders, those taking blood thinners such as warfarin or low-dose aspirin, and people who are immune suppressed or have uncontrolled diabetes. Active skin infections, eczema, psoriasis, an active facial rash, a current cold sore outbreak, and keloids or moles in the treatment area are also on the list. So are pregnancy, breastfeeding, and recent use of isotretinoin.
The American Academy of Dermatology adds timing advice. It suggests waiting if you have a recent tan or sunburn, a skin infection or painful pimples, or have taken isotretinoin within the past month. It also advises against treatment for people who heal slowly or poorly. The FDA notes a risk of skin darkening or lightening in darker skin types, while the AAD describes microneedling as safe for all skin tones, so discuss your skin type at consultation.
Hygiene is a fair question to ask. The FDA suggests asking how the device is cleaned between patients and whether a new needle cartridge is used for each patient and session. It states that re-using a needle cartridge is unsafe, even if it has been cleaned.
