MNRF Treatment Pre & Post Care

Microneedling Radiofrequency at Opal Radiant under the care of Dermatologist Dr. Punit

MNRF (Microneedling Radiofrequency) is an advanced, minimally invasive procedure that uses ultra-fine needles + controlled radiofrequency energy to remodel collagen, tighten skin, and improve scars and texture from within. It is commonly used for acne scars, open pores, fine lines, mild to moderate skin laxity, stretch marks and textural irregularities.

To ensure safe, predictable results and minimal downtime, please follow the pre- and post-care instructions below.

Before Your MNRF Session (Pre-Treatment Care)

1. Consultation & Medical Disclosure

  • Share full medical history with Dr. Punit and the Opal team:

    • History of keloids / hypertrophic scars

    • Tendency for pigmentation after acne or injury

    • Autoimmune conditions, bleeding disorders, or delayed wound healing

    • Active acne, infections, cold sores (herpes), or eczema/psoriasis in treatment area

  • Inform the doctor if:

    • You are on blood thinners, isotretinoin, or any strong acne medication

    • You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy

  • If you are prone to cold sores, a preventive antiviral may be prescribed before treatment.

2. Skin Preparation (7–10 Days Before)

  • Avoid active/topical irritants on the treatment area for at least 5–7 days:

    • No retinoids/retinol, tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene

    • No strong AHA/BHA peels (glycolic, salicylic, lactic acid), at-home peels or scrubs

    • Avoid any skin-bleaching/steroid creams unless prescribed by Dr. Punit

  • Stop other in-clinic procedures on the same area for:

    • 2 weeks: chemical peels, lasers, dermabrasion, PRP, facials with strong actives

  • Keep skin well moisturised and barrier healthy (gentle cleanser + bland moisturiser).

3. Sun Protection (2 Weeks Before)

  • Avoid tanning and sunburn for at least 2 weeks prior:

    • Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily

    • Wear a hat/scarf and avoid peak UV hours where possible

  • Do not come for MNRF with fresh sunburn, recent tanning or active tanning-bed use.

4. 24–48 Hours Before

  • No waxing, threading, epilation or depilatory creams on treatment area.

  • Avoid shaving the area on the same day (may shave gently 24–48 hours before if needed, especially for beard areas).

  • Stop alcohol 24 hours prior (reduces bruising and swelling).

  • Avoid high-intensity gym/sauna sessions the night before to prevent extra skin sensitivity.

  • If advised any pre-procedure medication (antiviral, antibiotic, pain relief), follow timing exactly as instructed.

5. On the Day of Treatment

  • Arrive with clean, product-free skin:

    • No makeup, sunscreen, oils, or heavy creams on the treatment area.

  • Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treated region (face, neck, abdomen, etc.).

  • Eat a light meal beforehand; do not come fasting or dehydrated.

  • You will sign an informed consent and photos may be taken for medical documentation and progress tracking.

After Your MNRF Session (Post-Treatment Care)

Immediately after MNRF, the skin typically looks red, warm and slightly swollen, similar to a moderate sunburn. There may be pinpoint bleeding at the time of the procedure which stops quickly. Redness usually settles over 24–72 hours, and mild bronzing or micro-crusting can appear and flake off over 3–7 days, depending on intensity and area treated.

Follow these care instructions to ensure smooth healing and reduce risk of pigmentation and scarring.

1. First 24–48 Hours

What you may feel/see:

  • Redness, warmth, mild to moderate swelling

  • Tight or “sunburnt” sensation

  • Tiny dots or grid-like marks; occasional mild oozing is possible

Do’s:

  • Cold compress: You may gently apply a cool (not ice-cold) pack wrapped in a clean cloth for a few minutes at a time if there is discomfort.

  • Use only clinic-approved products:

    • A soothing, barrier-repair cream or gel (as prescribed by Dr. Punit)

    • If given, use topical antibiotic as directed to reduce infection risk.

  • Keep skin clean:

    • If permitted, cleanse with only plain water or a very gentle, non-foaming cleanser (as advised by the clinic) the same day or from the next morning.

  • Sleep with head elevated (extra pillow) to reduce swelling in face/under-eye areas.

  • Avoid touching/picking: Do not rub or scratch even if it feels itchy or tight.

Don’ts:

  • No makeup or cosmetic products on treated area for 24–48 hours.

  • No gym, running, yoga, or activities that cause heavy sweating for 24–48 hours.

  • No sauna, steam, hot showers, hot tubs for at least 48 hours.

  • Do not apply home creams/serums (vitamin C, retinoids, acids, actives) unless cleared by Dr. Punit.

  • Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they delay healing.

2. Days 3–7

What you may feel/see:

  • Redness changing to pink tone

  • Mild bronzing, roughness or “sandpaper” texture

  • Fine micro-crusts or tiny scabs that gradually flake off

Do’s:

  • Continue gentle cleansing and bland moisturiser 2–3 times daily.

  • Start/continue high-SPF (30+ or 50) broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning.

  • Re-apply sunscreen every 2–3 hours if outdoors.

  • If prescribed, you may start light brightening / pigment-suppressing products after a few days, as instructed by Dr. Punit, to reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

Don’ts:

  • Do NOT pick or peel any flaking skin or micro-crusts – let them shed naturally.

  • Avoid scrubs, exfoliating brushes, face polisher, or aggressive towels.

  • No facials, peels, lasers, waxing, threading, dermaplaning on the area for at least 2 weeks, unless approved by your dermatologist.

  • Minimise prolonged direct sun exposure and avoid tanning completely.

3. Skin Care After 7 Days and Beyond

By this time, most redness has resolved and surface texture begins improving, but collagen remodelling continues for weeks to months.

Ongoing Do’s:

  • Maintain a simple, barrier-supportive skincare routine:

    • Gentle cleanser

    • Hydrating moisturiser (ceramides, hyaluronic acid, etc.)

    • Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ (non-negotiable)

  • After ~7–10 days, and only if your skin is comfortable and Dr. Punit has approved:

    • Gradually reintroduce actives (retinoids, vitamin C, acids) slowly.

  • Continue to avoid harsh DIY treatments and unverified products.

  • Stay hydrated, eat balanced meals and avoid smoking to support collagen rebuilding.

Watch out for:

  • If you notice increasing redness after day 3, pus, yellow crusts, severe pain, spreading rash, or new pigmentation patches, contact Opal Radiant immediately. These may be signs of infection or abnormal healing and need prompt medical review.

Sun Protection – Critical After MNRF

Post-MNRF skin is highly vulnerable to UV damage and pigmentation.

  • Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (preferably 50) every morning from Day 2 onwards.

  • Re-apply every 2–3 hours if outdoors, even on cloudy days.

  • Combine with physical protection: hat, umbrella, sunglasses, avoiding peak sun hours.

  • Continue strict sun protection for at least 4–6 weeks, ideally as a permanent habit.

Results, Sessions & Follow-Up

  • MNRF works by stimulating new collagen and elastin, so results are progressive, not instant.

  • Most patients require 3–4 sessions (sometimes more), spaced 4–6 weeks apart, for:

    • Acne scars (boxcar, rolling)

    • Textural irregularities and large pores

    • Fine lines, early skin laxity

    • Stretch marks and certain scars

  • Some improvement in skin texture, tightness and pore size may be seen within a few weeks, with continued improvement over 3–6 months as collagen remodels.

  • Maintenance sessions may be advised once or twice a year depending on indication and skin type.

At Opal Radiant, every MNRF treatment is planned and supervised by Dermatologist Dr. Punit, ensuring:

  • Correct energy levels and depth based on your concern (acne scars vs tightening vs pores)

  • Proper pre-conditioning for pigment-prone skin

  • Safe technique to reduce risk of PIH, scarring or infection

  • A personalised plan for home care and follow-up for long-term skin health

When to Contact the Clinic Urgently

Please contact Opal Radiant or Dr. Punit without delay if you experience:

  • Fever, chills, or feeling unwell after treatment

  • Intense pain, rapidly increasing redness, or hot, tender skin

  • Pus, significant yellow crusting, or blistering

  • Sudden dark patches or unusual pigmentation not improving over time