Who Should Not Get Microneedling
Microneedling is a popular skin treatment that uses tiny needles to create small punctures in the skin. This process helps boost collagen and improve issues like scars, wrinkles, and uneven texture. It works well for many people, but it is not safe for everyone. Certain health conditions or skin problems make it risky, and doctors call these contraindications. Always talk to a trained professional before trying it.
People with active skin infections should skip microneedling. This includes open sores, cuts, or any infected areas on the skin where treatment would happen. Active herpes outbreaks, like cold sores or shingles, are a big no because the needles can spread the virus or make it worse. The same goes for any other herpes simplex infections in the treatment spot.
If you have active acne, especially with red, inflamed pimples, cysts, or pustules, wait until it clears up. Microneedling can irritate these spots and lead to more breakouts or infection. Uncontrolled acne flares also make it unsafe.
Skin cancer that is active in the treatment area is another reason to avoid it. The procedure could harm the area or spread cells. Active eczema, psoriasis, or other autoimmune skin conditions might not heal well, so they often rule it out too.
Certain allergies block microneedling as well. If you are allergic to stainless steel, which many needles contain, or to topical numbing creams used during the treatment, it is not an option. People with weakened immune systems, like those on immunosuppressant drugs or with uncontrolled diabetes, face higher risks of infection or poor healing.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not get microneedling. Hormones and other changes during these times can affect how skin responds, and there is not enough safety data. Bleeding disorders or clotting problems increase the chance of bruising or heavy bleeding from the tiny punctures.
Recent use of strong acne drugs like Accutane (isotretinoin) within the last six months is a problem. Your skin needs time to recover from these medications before microneedling. A history of keloid scarring, where scars grow big and raised, also makes it risky because the treatment could trigger more keloids.
Darker skin tones need extra care, though microneedling is safe for most types. Deeper needle depths can sometimes cause pigmentation changes, so providers adjust settings carefully. If you have impaired wound healing from any reason, like poor circulation or certain diseases, the skin might not recover properly.
Even if you do not have these issues, recent FDA warnings note extra risks with radiofrequency microneedling devices. These combine needles with heat and have caused burns, scarring, or nerve damage in some cases. Stick to standard microneedling by experts if possible.
A consultation with a pro helps sort this out. They check your skin and health history to see if it fits you.
Sources
https://fadeaesthetics.com/grove-city/genius-microneedling/
https://nayawell.com/microneedling/
https://denversportsandholisticmedicine.com/microneedling
https://www.dermatology-nyc.com/microneedling/
https://intelligentagingstudio.com/service-menu/microneedling-nano-needling/
