Vivace Microneedling Downtime and Aftercare Guide
Most patients experience redness similar to a mild sunburn for one to three days after a Vivace microneedling treatment. Strict aftercare during this time is important to protect the skin as it heals. You will need to avoid makeup for about 24 hours, use gentle skincare products, and stay out of the sun.
- Redness and mild swelling are typical for one to three days.
- Skip makeup and heavy exercise for at least 24 hours.
- Pause active skincare ingredients like retinoids for several days.
- Strict sun protection is required while your skin heals.
What is Vivace microneedling?
Vivace is an FDA-cleared device that combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency energy. Tiny needles create microscopic punctures in the top layer of the skin. At the same time, the device delivers radiofrequency heat into the deeper layers.
This process triggers the body's natural healing response. Over three to six months, new collagen and elastin form. The goal is to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. At Éblouissant, a single session costs $600 and a package of three costs $1,500.
What happens immediately after the treatment?
A typical Vivace session takes about 60 minutes. Before the treatment begins, a numbing cream is applied for about 30 minutes. When you leave the clinic, your face will be red. Most people compare the look and feel to a mild sunburn.
Your skin might also feel warm or tight. You may see some mild swelling, especially around the eyes or other sensitive areas. Tiny pinpoint marks or very light bruising can occur, though this is less common. All of these reactions are normal parts of the healing process.
Your provider will apply a soothing serum or mask before you go home. Do not touch your face or apply any products for the rest of the day unless instructed to do so. Your skin has open micro-channels, and keeping the area clean reduces the risk of infection.
Day one and day two: managing the redness
On the day after your treatment, the redness usually begins to fade. For some people, it is gone by the second day. For others, it lingers into day three. Mild swelling may persist.
You can usually wash your face the morning after your treatment. Use lukewarm water and a very gentle, non-foaming cleanser. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Do not rub or scrub. Apply a basic, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated.
You must avoid the sun as much as possible. If you need to go outside, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. Your skin is very sensitive to UV damage right now.
When can you wear makeup again?
Wait at least 24 hours before applying any makeup. The microscopic punctures take time to close. Applying makeup too soon can trap bacteria or cosmetic ingredients in the skin. This can lead to irritation or an infection.
When you do start wearing makeup again, make sure your brushes and sponges are clean. A mineral makeup is often a good choice for the first few days. It sits lightly on the skin and is easy to remove. If your skin still feels very irritated on day two, wait another day before applying foundation.
Skincare ingredients to avoid
Your regular skincare routine probably needs to change for the first week. The goal is to let the skin heal without introducing harsh or irritating ingredients.
Pause the use of any active ingredients for at least three to five days, or as directed by your provider. This includes retinoids, retinol, and vitamin C serums. You should also avoid chemical exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acids. Physical scrubs and exfoliating brushes must also stay in the cabinet.
Stick to a simple routine of gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. Once the redness and peeling resolve, you can slowly reintroduce your normal products.
Activities to skip during downtime
Sweat contains bacteria, and excessive heat can increase swelling and inflammation. Because of this, you should avoid strenuous exercise for 24 to 48 hours after your Vivace treatment.
You also need to skip saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs for a few days. Hot showers are fine, but try to keep the water temperature warm rather than scalding. Avoid swimming in pools or the ocean until your skin has fully healed.
When to contact your physician
Most people recover from Vivace microneedling without any problems. Redness, tightness, and mild peeling are expected. However, you should watch for signs of a complication.
Contact your provider if the redness or swelling gets worse after day three. You should also call the office if you develop a fever, or if you see pus, yellow crusting, or increasing pain in the treated area. These can be signs of an infection and require medical attention.
Your consultation at Éblouissant
If you are considering Vivace microneedling, a consultation is the first step. Dr. Pandey will evaluate your skin and discuss your aesthetic goals. We will explain the procedure, the expected downtime, and how many sessions you might need. Generally, about three sessions provide the best results.
Éblouissant is located at 31 Washington Square West, Suite 3F in New York City. We are an official Vivace provider. You can book an appointment online through our patient portal or by calling (212) 964-0971.
Common questions
How long does Vivace redness last?
Redness typically lasts one to three days. It looks and feels similar to a mild sunburn. The redness usually fades significantly by the second day.
Can I wash my face the night of the treatment?
Usually, you should not wash your face or apply products on the evening of your treatment. Your provider will tell you when it is safe to start cleansing again, which is typically the next morning.
Is peeling normal after Vivace?
Yes, mild peeling or flaking can happen a few days after the procedure. This is part of the cell turnover process. Do not pick or pull at the peeling skin.
When will I see results from Vivace?
You might notice a glow after the initial redness fades. However, the real results take time. New collagen forms over three to six months, which gradually improves skin texture.
Vivace® RF Microneedling
See pricing, what to expect, and how to book on our Vivace® RF Microneedling page.
Related reading
This article is general information, not medical advice, and does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Individual results vary. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Medical disclaimer