Is It a Good Idea to Use Arnica After Microneedling?

Arnica is an old natural remedy that has been used for centuries to address various concerns like muscle aches, swelling, and bruises. Known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, arnica is often turned to for treating skin issues. Its antimicrobial qualities also make it useful for healing minor wounds and preventing infections.

If you’ve just had a microneedling session and have arnica cream at home, you might wonder if it’s safe to apply it to your skin. After all, microneedling creates tiny punctures in the skin, and bruising can sometimes occur—conditions arnica is known to help with. Everything seems to make perfect sense, but there’s conflicting advice from experts on this topic.

So, can you use arnica after microneedling? Let’s delve into what professionals say, examine the rationale behind their recommendations, and explore what the science tells us about using arnica post-microneedling.

Quick Answer

The opinions on using arnica after microneedling are quite mixed. Some experts say it’s great for reducing bruising and swelling due to its anti-inflammatory properties. However, others warn that arnica might interfere with the skin’s natural healing process, which is important after microneedling. The best advice is to talk to your skincare professional before using arnica to make sure it’s the right choice for you.

Professionals Recommending Arnica

Several professionals and clinics recommend using arnica after microneedling to help with bruising and swelling.

Virginia Facial Plastic Surgery
This clinic advises using arnica supplements to help with any bruising and swelling post-microneedling. They believe arnica can assist in reducing these common side effects and promote faster healing.

Midlands Derm
Midlands Derm recommends applying arnica up to 7 days after microneedling treatments. They suggest that arnica can help minimize inflammation and bruising, making the recovery process smoother.

iLuxeglo
iLuxeglo suggests starting arnica one day before your microneedling session if you tend to bruise easily. They recommend continuing to use arnica for up to 7 days after treatment to help with bruising and inflammation.

Professionals Against Arnica

While some professionals recommend using arnica after microneedling, others advise against it, citing potential drawbacks.

Skin Cancer Specialists
Skin Cancer Specialists warn against using arnica after microneedling. They state that arnica might interfere with the natural inflammatory process that is crucial for skin renewal and effective healing post-treatment.

SkinMD Chicago
SkinMD Chicago advises avoiding arnica and other anti-inflammatory supplements after microneedling. They believe that these substances can impede the natural inflammatory response necessary for proper skin healing and optimal results from the treatment.

What Does the Science Say?

When it comes to using arnica after microneedling, scientific studies provide some important insights.

Adverse Reactions from Arnica-Based Cream Post-Microneedling

An NIH study reported a case where a woman used an arnica-based cream after microneedling and experienced adverse reactions. Her skin developed a dermatitis-like reaction with redness and yellow papules. This suggests that not all arnica products are suitable for use post-microneedling, especially if they are not intended for deeper skin layers.

Comprehensive Postoperative Care Plan Including Arnica Gel

Another study highlighted in the OUP journal included arnica gel as part of a comprehensive postoperative care plan. In this case, patients were advised to use arnica gel after microneedling to help reduce bruising and swelling. This shows that arnica can be part of a successful post-treatment regimen when used correctly.

These studies indicate that while arnica can be beneficial, it’s crucial to use the right type of product and follow professional guidance to avoid adverse effects.

Wrapping It Up

Using arnica after microneedling has both supporters and critics. Some professionals swear by its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, while others caution against it, fearing it might interfere with your skin’s natural healing process. Scientific studies also show mixed results, with some highlighting potential adverse reactions and others supporting its benefits as part of a carefully planned recovery routine.

The bottom line? If you’re considering using arnica after your microneedling session, it’s best to consult with your skincare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific skin type and treatment plan, ensuring you get the best possible results without any unwanted side effects.

So, while arnica might be a helpful tool for some, it’s always a good idea to get professional guidance to make sure it’s the right choice for you.