Last Updated on March 13, 2025 by Giorgia Guazzarotti

So, can you do microneedling after Botox? 

So you got Botox (or maybe you’re still thinking about it). Your forehead’s smooth. Your brows are lifted. And yet… your skin’s still not quite where you want it to be. Maybe it’s looking a little dull. Or those acne scars are still visible on your now wrinkle-free skin. Or the texture just isn’t as smooth as you expected.

Should you try micro needling? Everyone’s raving about how it boosts collagen, tightens skin, and gives you that fresh, lit-from-within glow. But you also hear the warnings and you’re wondering, will it mess up my Botox? Will it wear off faster? Did you just waste your money?

I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll break down the risks, the science, and exactly when to book that next appointment so you get the best of both the Botox and micro-needling worlds:

What Is Botox and How Does It Work?

Botox is basically a muscle relaxer in a syringe. It’s made from botulinum toxin (sounds scary, but don’t worry, it’s been studied and proved safe for decades) and works by blocking the signals between your nerves and muscles. In plan English, the facial muscles responsible for creating dynamic wrinkles when you frown, squint, or raise your eyebrows stop moving as much. Less movement = fewer wrinkles.

According to a study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Carruthers & Carruthers, 2003), Botox can reduce wrinkle depth by up to 75% in the treatment area. Results kick in after a few days and last about three to four months before the muscles slowly regain movement.

Fun fact: Botox also helps reduce excessive sweating.

Fighting Wrinkles with Botox Only

Botox is a pro at handling expression lines (those deep creases on your forehead, crow’s feet, and the frown lines between your brows). It prevents new wrinkles from forming and softening the ones already there. But here’s the thing: Botox injections don’t do anything for skin texture, elasticity, or overall quality. It won’t fix sun damage, acne scars, or that dull, tired look. That’s where microneedling comes in.

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What Is Microneedling and What Does It Do?

Think of microneedling (also called collagen induction therapy)  as a controlled injury party for your skin. A device with tiny, fine needles creates micro-punctures on the surface, triggering your body’s natural healing response. In the process, your skin increases collagen and elastin production (these proteins keep your skin firm and elastic).

A 2016 study found that microneedling can increase collagen production by up to 400% in treated areas. Translation? Smoother texture, tighter skin, and a natural glow over time. Another study, published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, found that microneedling is highly effective for skin rejuvenation. BUT, scientists say it works best when used together with other cosmetic treatments and dermal fillers. 

Fighting Wrinkles with Microneedling Only

Microneedling and Botox works in very different ways. Microneedling doesn’t stop muscle movement. Instead, it boosts collagen production and strengthens your skin from the inside out. Derms recommend it to treat acne scars, stretch marks, and signs of aging, like fine lines, uneven skin tone, and even loss of firmness. The catch? It doesn’t prevent the appearance of wrinkles from facial expressions. If you’re battling both expression lines and aging skin, pairing Botox and microneedling may be the best option for you.

Now you’ve got all the deets on Botox and microneedling, let’s get into whether having a microneedling procedure after a Botox facial is a good idea.

Can You Use Microneedling and Botox Together?

Botox works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to the muscles. In plain English, it prevents muscles from contracting so wrinkles can’t form. Botox takes about 3–7 days to fully settle into place. Plan your week accordingly (just saying).

Microneedling, on the other hand, creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin (I know, it sounds awful!) to boost the production of collagen and help active ingredients better penetrate skin (the problem is that even preservative and all those fillers get absorbed deeper into your skin too – be careful what you use in your skincare routine after micro needling!).

So does using them together gives you optimal results or is it better to pick one over the other? Here’s the short answer: If you get microneedling too soon after Botox, there’s a chance the tiny needles could disrupt the Botox before it has had time to settle. If this happens, either Botox will be less effective or it may even cause unintended muscle weakness in surrounding areas!

How Long Should You Wait To Have Microneedling After Botox?

This is a tricky one. As I mentioned above, studies show that microneedling works better when combined with other treatments AND that Botox needs at least 7 days to settle, so you know it won’t budge when you have something else done to your skin.

I couldn’t find any studies that specifically answer this question. And, knowing what we currently know about both cosmetic procedures, derms agree that it’s best to wait at least 7–14 days before microneedling after Botox to avoid compromising results. 

Side Effects of Microneedling After Botox

If you don’t wait long enough between treatments, you may experience some not-so-nice side effects, like:

  • Botox Migration: When a microneedling treatment is done too soon, the pressure and movement of the skin can cause Botox to spread to unintended areas. Sounds innocuous, but it can lead to muscle wrinkles and weird, frozen facial expressions. Trust me, you don’t want that to happen to you. 
  • Bruising and swelling: Microneedling increases circulation to the treated area. Using Botox Botox too soon may increase the risk of skin irritation, bruising, and even make the swelling last longer.
  • Reduced Botox Effectiveness: Microneedling might prevent Botox from settling properly, so it doesn’t work as well or for long enough.

Best Treatment Timeline for Different Skin Types

Your skin type plays a part in how well you tolerate these treatments and how much downtime you may need between them.

  • Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Microneedling can help reduce acne scars and oil production. If you have active breakouts, wait until your skin has calmed down before doing Botox or microneedling.
  • Sensitive Skin: If your skin is easily irritated, give it extra time between treatments. Waiting at least 14 days before microneedling after Botox will help minimize the risk of redness or sensitivity.
  • Mature Skin: Older skin may take longer to recover from microneedling, so spacing treatments at least two weeks apart is a good idea to avoid unnecessary inflammation (this is the main cause of wrinkles, acne, and sensitivity).

What’s the Best Treatment Timeline?

If you want to have both Botox and microneedling down, here’s a science-backed schedule to follow so you can do it right:

  • Option 1: Microneedling First, Then Botox. This is usually the best approach. Get microneedling first, let your skin heal for 5–7 days, then go in for Botox.
  • Option 2: Botox First, Then Microneedling (With a Gap). If you already had Botox, wait at least 7–14 days before microneedling for Botox to fully settle.

Can You Speed Up Healing After Microneedling?

If you’re planning on getting microneedling after Botox, there are ways to help your skin recover faster:

  • Use a gentle, hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid) to soothe the skin. You can find my recommend hyaluronic acid serums here.
  • Avoid harsh exfoliants and active ingredients for a few days. This includes retinol (and all other forms of Vitamin A), Glycolic Acid, 15% L-Ascorbic Acid, and scrubs. I’d also steer clear of any exfoliants. As a rule, if anything irritates your skin after microneedling, leave it for a few days. 
  • Wear sunscreen. I know you’re doing this every day anyway (right?). UV cause inflammation. That’s the last thing your skin needs after microneedling.
  • Use a cooling mask to reduce inflammation and calm redness. My fave contains colloidal oatmeal, centella asiatica, and bisabolol (the key ingredient in chamomile).

Is Using Microneedling And Botox Together Right For You?

So, is this the ultimate anti-aging duo for you? That depends on your skin goals, concerns, and whether your skin can handle both treatments.

THIS IS FOR YOU IF:

  • You have expression lines AND skin texture issues
  • You want long-term skin improvement, not just a quick fix
  • You don’t have active acne or very sensitive skin

THIS IS NOT FOR YOU IF:

  • You’re looking for instant results
  • You have sensitive skin, rosacea, or a history of keloid scarring
  • You’re not willing to commit to post-treatment care

If you check all the boxes for a good candidate, this combo could be a game-changer for your skin. I you’re unsure, talk to your dermatologist to figure out the best treatment plan for YOUR specific needs. This combo may be the best combo for you, or your derm may recommend chemical peels, laser treatments, or other alternatives.

The Bottom Line

Can you do microneedling after Botox? Yes, but timing is everything. If you want the best results, wait at least a week or two after Botox before getting microneedling to avoid compromising its effectiveness.