Microneedling creates tiny openings in your skin. What you put through those openings matters—including any bacteria on a dirty device. Proper cleaning isn’t optional; it’s essential for safety and results.
Why Cleaning Matters
When you microneedle, you’re creating channels directly into your skin’s deeper layers. Those channels bypass your protective barrier. Any bacteria, dirt, or contamination on your needles goes directly into those open channels.
The risks of poor hygiene include infection, breakouts and irritation, scarring from infected wounds, and compromised results.
Taking 2 minutes to properly clean your device prevents all of this.
Before Each Treatment
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water for 20+ seconds. Dry with a clean towel.
Step 2: Clean Your Device
For the needle cartridge:
Spray or pour 70% isopropyl alcohol over the needles. Let it sit for 60-90 seconds. Don’t wipe—let air dry completely. Alternatively, soak the cartridge in alcohol for 1-2 minutes, then air dry.
For the device body:
Wipe down with alcohol-dampened cloth. Pay attention to areas you’ll grip during treatment.
Step 3: Clean Your Skin
Your face needs to be completely clean before treatment. Double cleanse if wearing makeup or SPF. No products on skin before microneedling (except your treatment serum).
| Component | How to Clean | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Needle cartridge | Soak/spray with 70% alcohol; air dry | Before AND after each use |
| Device body | Wipe with alcohol | Before and after use |
| Your hands | Soap and water 20+ seconds | Before handling device |
| Your face | Double cleanse; completely clean | Immediately before treatment |
After Each Treatment
Step 1: Immediate Rinse
Rinse the needle cartridge under warm running water to remove serum and any skin debris. Don’t scrub—just rinse.
Step 2: Sanitize
Spray or soak in 70% isopropyl alcohol for 1-2 minutes. This kills any bacteria picked up during treatment.
Step 3: Air Dry Completely
Set the cartridge on a clean surface or in the device case with adequate airflow. Don’t put it away wet—moisture promotes bacterial growth.
Step 4: Store Properly
Once completely dry, store in the case or a clean, dry container. Keep away from bathroom humidity. Don’t leave exposed to open air and dust.
When to Replace Needle Cartridges
Ideal: Single-Use
The safest approach is using a new cartridge for each session. This eliminates concerns about dulling needles and accumulated bacteria.
If Reusing: Replace After 3-5 Uses Maximum
If budget requires reusing cartridges, replace after no more than 3-5 sessions. Here’s why:
Needles dull: Dull needles cause more trauma, more pain, and less precise channels
Bacteria accumulates: Even with good cleaning, microscopic buildup occurs
Effectiveness drops: Sharp needles penetrate cleanly; dull needles tear
Signs You Need a New Cartridge
Treatment feels more painful than it used to. You’re pressing harder to get the same sensation. Needles look bent, damaged, or dull. It’s been more than 5 sessions with the same cartridge. Any visible rust or discoloration.
Deep Cleaning (Monthly)
In addition to session-by-session cleaning, do a monthly deep clean:
Cartridge: Extended soak in isopropyl alcohol (5 minutes). Thoroughly air dry. Inspect closely for any damage or dulling.
Device body: Wipe all surfaces with alcohol. Clean any crevices where debris might accumulate. Check battery contacts if applicable.
Storage case: Wipe interior with alcohol. Ensure it’s completely dry before storing device.
What NOT to Do
Don’t share devices: Ever. Even with cleaning, sharing creates cross-contamination risks.
Don’t use harsh cleaners: Bleach, ammonia-based cleaners, and similar products can damage needles and leave residue.
Don’t store wet: Moisture encourages bacterial growth. Always air dry completely.
Don’t skip sanitizing: “It looks clean” isn’t the same as clean. Sanitize every time.
Don’t reuse indefinitely: Even well-maintained cartridges need replacement.
Cleaning Supplies Checklist
Essential:
70% isopropyl alcohol (not 91%). Spray bottle for easy application. Clean, lint-free cloths. Proper storage case.
Helpful:
Small container for soaking cartridges. Paper towels for drying surface. Good lighting to inspect needles.
Quick Pre-Treatment Checklist
Before each microneedling session:
☐ Hands washed thoroughly
☐ Needle cartridge sanitized with alcohol
☐ Cartridge air-dried completely
☐ Device body wiped down
☐ Face double-cleansed
☐ No products on skin except treatment serum
☐ Clean towel available
The Bottom Line
Two minutes of proper cleaning protects you from infection and ensures your microneedling treatment is both safe and effective. Make it automatic: clean before, clean after, replace cartridges regularly.
Your skin deserves sterile equipment. Don’t compromise on hygiene.
