Morpheus8: All The Post-Treatment Questions (Side Effects, Things to Avoid, and More!)
Now that you have received your Morpheus8 treatment, you may be wondering what to do next and what post-treatment side effects are normal or not! A bit of irritation and scabbing is 1000% normal but did you know that hyperpigmentation is also normal? (FYI: Keep in mind that healing and results vary by person 😊)
We love Morpheus8: it improves acne scarring, reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improves facial contours, targets and melts fat, improves skin texture and laxity…amazing!! But we totally get feeling a bit anxious if you’re doing research before your appointment or if you’ve already gotten your treatment and now have 28 tabs open about Morpheus8 side effects and maybe 2-3 of those tabs are telling you your face is ruined forever (we do the same thing).
Let’s just be very clear about 1 thing: the majority of bad results and/or bad side effects can be attributed to the provider’s skill: burns, uneven treatment, patchiness, etc. Doing due diligence and researching where to do your Morpheus8 is integral to desired results.
Remember cuties: a deal is great but it’s important to find a place that knows what they are doing!
How do I take care of my skin after Morpheus8?
Proper aftercare is a critical part of the Morpheus8 treatment process (no, really, you will want to take notes ✍️). These steps help promote healing and prevent complications, ensuring you achieve the best possible results:
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1. Hands Off!
Avoid touching the treated area to prevent infection and irritation.
2. Cleanse Gently.
Use a mild, non-foaming, fragrance-free cleanser twice daily. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel—no vigorous rubbing!
3. Skip the Sweat.
Refrain from strenuous exercise or any activity that increases blood flow (like Pilates, running, or hot yoga) for 24–48 hours. This can minimize swelling, irritation, and breakouts.
4. Sun Protection is Key.
Avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. If you’re outdoors, wear SPF 30+ mineral sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours. Add a wide-brim hat or scarf for extra protection (because who doesn’t love a chic accessory?).
5. Say No to Heat.
Steer clear of hot water, steam rooms, and saunas for at least one week. Heat can trigger inflammation and delay healing.
6. No Picking or Peeling.
Let your skin heal naturally—don’t pick at scabs or peeling skin, as this can cause scarring or hyperpigmentation.
7. Pause the Makeup.
Avoid wearing makeup for 48–72 hours to allow your skin to breathe and recover.
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1. Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A, Tretinoin)
Why? Retinoids are potent exfoliants that can irritate the skin, increase sensitivity, and disrupt the healing process.
Avoid For: At least 7–10 days post-treatment, or until your skin no longer feels sensitive or irritated. If your provider advises, you may resume once peeling or redness subsides.
2. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Common AHAs include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid.
Why? These acids exfoliate the skin and can worsen irritation, dryness, and inflammation after the controlled injuries caused by Morpheus8.
Avoid For: 1–2 weeks, depending on skin sensitivity. Wait until your skin has fully recovered.
3. Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)
The most common BHA is salicylic acid.
Why? BHAs penetrate deep into pores and can dry out your already sensitive skin, potentially causing irritation.
Avoid For: 1–2 weeks or until your skin feels balanced and hydrated.
4. Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)
Why? Although a staple in many skincare routines, vitamin C in its pure form can be too harsh on compromised skin. It can sting and exacerbate redness immediately after Morpheus8.
Avoid For: 5–7 days, or until your skin no longer feels tender or sensitive. Once healed, vitamin C is great for reducing inflammation and boosting collagen.
5. Physical and Chemical Exfoliants
Includes exfoliating scrubs (e.g., with beads or granules) and exfoliating enzymes (e.g., papaya or pumpkin enzymes).
Why? Exfoliants can aggravate your skin’s healing process, disrupt new cell growth, and cause redness or microtears.
Avoid For: 2 weeks, or longer if your skin is still peeling or scabbing.
6. Benzoyl Peroxide
Why? Benzoyl peroxide is drying and can irritate healing skin, causing further inflammation.
Avoid For: 7–10 days or until your skin barrier has fully recovered.
7. Alcohol-Based Products
Common in toners, astringents, and some serums.
Why? Alcohol strips the skin of moisture, exacerbating dryness and irritation.
Avoid For: 1–2 weeks, or longer if dryness persists.
8. Fragrances and Essential Oils
Why? Fragrances (synthetic or natural) and essential oils can trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities, especially on post-treatment skin.
Avoid For: At least 7 days, though fragrance-free products are generally better for long-term skincare.
9. Sunscreens with Chemical Filters
Ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, or octinoxate can irritate healing skin.
Why? Post-Morpheus8 skin is highly sensitive to UV damage, but physical (mineral) sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are gentler and better suited during recovery.
Avoid For: Always opt for physical sunscreen for at least 2 weeks post-treatment.
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First 24–48 Hours: Focus on gentle cleansing (with a non-foaming cleanser), hydration, and calming products like hyaluronic acid or ceramide-rich creams.
Days 3–7: Redness and sensitivity should start to subside. Avoid active ingredients and focus on soothing and repairing products.
Week 2 and Beyond: If your skin is no longer peeling or tender, you can gradually reintroduce active ingredients like retinoids, AHAs, or vitamin C. Always consult with your provider before resuming.
Co-owner Linh roughly 3 hours post-treatment: you will be red!
Other aftercare tips:
Avoid touching the treatment area as our hands can be quite dirty,
Sleep on clean pillowcases,
Aaaand for all the dog parents: don’t let them lick your face 🐶
What are the side effects? Is this normal?
Right after the session, your skin will be a bit red and slightly swollen, kind of like you've spent a little too long in the sun. This is totally normal and nothing to freak out about. The redness and warmth you feel immediately are due to the micro-injuries created by the microneedles, which stimulate your skin's natural healing process. This heat actually encourages collagen production, which is what helps tighten and rejuvenate your skin over time.
You might also feel a warm, tingly sensation for a few hours, which is just the radiofrequency energy working its way through your skin layers. It’s important to keep your skin clean and avoid using any harsh products for the rest of the day to protect the microchannels that have been created.
Fast forward a few hours, and you might notice some tiny marks from the microneedles, but that’s just the microchannels doing their thing. By the next day, the redness should have calmed down quite a bit, and any swelling will be significantly reduced. At this point, your skin might feel a little tight (it might feel a bit like a sunburn), which is a positive sign that the collagen-boosting process is underway.
The feeling of tightness is due to the remodeling of the deeper layers of the skin, where collagen and elastin fibers are getting a reboot. Keep up with a gentle skincare routine, focusing on hydration and protection, and steer clear of direct sun exposure. By the second day, you’ll start to notice your skin feeling smoother and looking more refreshed.
While Morpheus8 generally has minimal side effects, it's important to know what to expect:
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Swelling:
Swelling is common and can last for several days.
What to Do: Apply a cold compress or ice pack (wrapped in a clean cloth) for 10–15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
Redness:
The treated area may appear red or flushed for a few hours to a few days.
What to Do: Keep your skincare gentle and avoid heat or harsh products until the redness subsides.
Bruising:
Mild bruising may occur, especially in areas with thinner skin (like under the eyes or along the jawline).
What to Do: Bruising typically resolves within 3–5 days. You can use arnica gel or cream to speed up healing.
Discomfort:
You may feel sensations of warmth, prickling, or mild tenderness immediately post-treatment.
What to Do: This is temporary and should ease within 24–48 hours. Use a soothing, hydrating product like aloe vera or a ceramide-rich moisturizer.
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Skin Purging:
A temporary increase in acne, whiteheads, or blackheads as the skin undergoes rapid turnover.
What to Do: Use a gentle cleanser and a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep pores clear. Avoid active ingredients like retinoids and acids until your provider gives the green light.
Acne Flare-Ups:
Some patients may experience an increase in acne due to increased oil production or clogged pores from dead skin.
What to Do: Don’t pop or pick! Stick to a simple skincare routine with calming, non-irritating products.
Dryness, Flaking, or Peeling:
These symptoms are common as the skin renews itself post-treatment.
What to Do: Keep the skin hydrated with products that contain hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides.
Hyperpigmentation:
Dark spots or patches can develop, especially in patients with darker skin tones or those prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
What to Do: This is often temporary, but you should avoid direct sun exposure and use SPF 30+ daily. Contact your provider if it persists.
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Hypopigmentation:
Loss of pigmentation, resulting in light or white patches of skin. This is uncommon but may occur in some patients.
What to Do: Notify your provider immediately if you notice light patches that don’t fade over time.
Infection:
Signs of infection include worsening redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or fever.
What to Do: Keep the treated area clean and follow all aftercare instructions. Contact your provider immediately if you notice signs of infection.
Scarring:
Rare but possible, especially if the skin is not properly cared for during the healing process or if you pick at scabs/peeling skin.
What to Do: Follow post-care instructions carefully, and report any concerns to your provider.
Nerve Injury:
In extremely rare cases, radiofrequency energy may cause nerve damage, leading to tingling, numbness, or pain in the treated area.
What to Do: Contact your provider if you notice persistent numbness or discomfort beyond the typical recovery period.
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Bumpy Texture ("Grid Marks"):
Temporary small, grid-like indentations may appear where the device made contact with the skin. These typically fade within a week as the skin heals.
What to Do: Keep the area moisturized and avoid irritating the skin. Use a soothing balm like Aquaphor if needed.
Prolonged Redness or “Hot Spots”:
Some users report extended redness or areas that feel “hot” to the touch for several days.
What to Do: Cool compresses and avoiding heat sources (like showers or exercise) can help. Contact your provider if symptoms persist beyond a week.
“Shiny” Skin:
Some people report a shiny or taut appearance immediately after treatment due to post-treatment tightness. This typically resolves in a few days.
What to Do: Keep the skin hydrated and avoid over-cleansing.
We can see a bit of PIH around her mouth (roughly 3-5 days post-treatment)
Important Note: According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, radiofrequency treatments like Morpheus8 can increase sebum production, potentially leading to acne breakouts (source: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology).
Pro tips for managing side effects
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support skin healing and reduce inflammation.
Gentle Is Key: Avoid any scrubs, brushes, or harsh towels. Be kind to your skin!
Track Changes: Take daily photos to monitor your skin’s healing. This can help your provider assess any lingering side effects.
Let’s talk about: post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, or PIH, is a common skin condition where dark spots or patches develop after the skin experiences inflammation or injury. It happens when the skin produces extra melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color) in response to healing. This can occur after acne, cuts, burns, or even certain skin treatments.
How Does PIH Relate to Morpheus8?
Morpheus8 is a skin treatment that combines microneedling and radiofrequency energy to remodel the skin and stimulate collagen production. While it's designed to improve the skin, it involves tiny controlled injuries to kickstart the healing process. For some people—especially those prone to hyperpigmentation—this healing can trigger PIH.
Which Skin Types Are Prone to PIH?
Skin types IV to VI on the Fitzpatrick Scale (medium to darker skin tones) are more prone to PIH because they naturally have more melanin. These skin types react more intensely to inflammation, which can lead to the development of dark spots.
How to Take Care of PIH and Prevent It:
Before Morpheus8 Treatment:
Ta-da! All healed and glowy skin.
Prep Your Skin: Use a gentle skincare routine and avoid any retinoids or acids at least 7 days before your appointment.
Consult Your Provider: Let your aesthetic provider know if you’re prone to PIH. They may suggest pre-treatment with hydroquinone to help mitigate the PIH.
Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or higher). Sun exposure increases the risk of hyperpigmentation.
After Morpheus8 Treatment:
Apply Sunscreen Religiously: Avoid direct sun exposure and use sunscreen to protect the healing skin. This prevents new or worsening dark spots.
Use Gentle Products: Stick to soothing products and avoid harsh exfoliants or scrubs while the skin heals.
Moisturize: Keep your skin hydrated to support its natural healing process.
Treating PIH if It Occurs:
Topical Brighteners: Use creams with ingredients like hydroquinone, azelaic acid, or kojic acid to fade dark spots.
Retinoids: These can speed up cell turnover, helping the dark spots fade faster.
Professional Treatments: Additional Morpheus8 sessions (adjusted for lower intensity) or treatments like chemical peels or Lumecca IPL may help, but only after the skin is fully healed.
How to Prevent PIH Long-Term:
Stick to Sun Protection: Sunscreen is your best defense against worsening or new pigmentation.
Avoid Picking or Scratching: Any injury to the skin, including picking at acne, can lead to PIH.
Follow Your Provider’s Advice: Always adhere to pre- and post-treatment instructions tailored to your skin type.
Morpheus8 is safe and effective for most skin types, including darker skin tones, when proper precautions are taken to minimize the risk of PIH. By working closely with your provider and maintaining a good skincare routine, you can enjoy the benefits of the treatment without worrying about dark spots.
Tell your bestie you need a raincheck on the after work drinks after your Morpheus8 treatment.
Can I drink alcohol after Morpheus8?
It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after your Morpheus8 treatment. Alcohol can cause dehydration, slowing down the healing process and increasing the risk of complications. It can also thin the blood, leading to increased bruising and swelling. While there isn’t specific scientific research on alcohol consumption post-Morpheus8, it's best to err on the side of caution.
Pro Tip: Staying hydrated with water and avoiding alcohol will help your skin heal more effectively. Remember, healthy skin starts from within!
What other foods or drinks should I avoid?
While there are no strict dietary restrictions post-treatment, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients will promote optimal skin healing. However, certain foods and drinks can cause inflammation or dehydration, potentially hindering your recovery:
Caffeine: Can cause dehydration and increase inflammation. Try to limit your intake post-treatment.
Spicy Foods: May cause skin irritation and exacerbate redness or swelling.
Sugary Foods: Can increase inflammation, slowing down the healing process.
Processed Foods: Often high in sodium and additives that contribute to inflammation and dehydration.
Are there any medications I need to avoid?
Retinoids:
These can increase skin sensitivity and the risk of complications.
Avoid retinoids for at least two weeks before and after your treatment.
NSAIDs:
Medications like aspirin and ibuprofen can thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising.
Avoid these for at least 48 hours before and after your treatment.
Blood-Thinning Medications:
Such as warfarin or heparin.
Consult with your provider if you are taking these medications.
Herbal Supplements:
Supplements like St. John's wort, ginkgo biloba, and garlic can increase the risk of bleeding.
Avoid these for at least 48 hours before and after treatment.
Antibiotics:
While not strictly contraindicated, they may increase the risk of complications.
Follow your provider’s instructions if prescribed antibiotics post-treatment.
Pro Tip: Always discuss your medication and supplement use with your provider to ensure a safe treatment experience.
When can I wear makeup?
It’s recommended to wait at least 24-48 hours before applying makeup to the treated area. This allows your skin to heal and reduces the risk of irritation or infection. When you do resume makeup, use gentle, non-irritating products designed for sensitive or post-procedure skin.
Quick Tip: Avoid makeup or skincare products with harsh chemicals or fragrances post-treatment. Opt for products labeled “non-comedogenic” and “hypoallergenic” to keep your skin happy and healthy.
Before and after 3 sessions of Morpheus8: Reduced pore size, improved skin texture
Okay, so when am I really going to see results?
The timeframe for optimal results varies depending on individual factors such as age, skin type, and the severity of skin concerns. Generally, you can expect to see some improvement in skin texture and tone within a few days to a week as your skin begins to heal and regenerate.
Full results typically become visible after several weeks to a few months as collagen production increases and the skin continues to regenerate. The effects of Morpheus8 can continue to develop for up to six months post-treatment, offering ongoing improvement.
FYI: Patience is key! Your skin’s transformation will be worth the wait.
I love what I’m seeing! Do I need all 3 sessions? How many can I do a year?
The short answer is yes, most people do need all three sessions to get the full benefits of Morpheus8. Each session is designed to build on the last, helping to stimulate more collagen and elastin, which leads to firmer and smoother skin. If you have significant concerns like deep wrinkles or scarring, the full series will give you the best chance to address them effectively. But don’t worry, your provider will tailor the treatment plan to fit your skin’s needs.
As for how many sessions you can have in a year, three treatments spaced four to six weeks apart is the typical recommendation. However, maintenance sessions can be done every 6 to 12 months, depending on your skin goals and how your skin responds to the initial treatment. So, you have some flexibility here. Think of it like hitting the gym for your skin—regular maintenance keeps everything tight and glowing!
Your Path to GLOWING Skin with Morpheus8
Before and after 3 sessions of Morpheus8: reduced acne scarring, improved pore size, skin texture
Embarking on your Morpheus8 journey can feel like navigating a new skincare frontier, but with the right aftercare and guidance, you'll be well on your way to achieving your skin goals. Avoiding alcohol and certain foods, being mindful of medications, and following makeup guidelines are simple yet crucial steps to ensure your skin heals beautifully and effectively. The results may take some time, but the wait is certainly worth it as your skin rejuvenates, becoming smoother, firmer, and more radiant.
At Core Aesthetic, we are dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and guidance throughout your skincare journey. Our expert team, equipped with years of experience and a passion for aesthetic medicine, is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you're curious about Morpheus8 or exploring other advanced treatments, we offer personalized consultations to tailor a skincare plan that best suits your needs.
Experience the Core Aesthetic Difference
Ready to transform your skin with Morpheus8? Book a consultation with us today and discover how our cutting-edge treatments can help you achieve the radiant, youthful skin you desire. At Core Aesthetic, we combine state-of-the-art technology with personalized care to deliver exceptional results. Visit us in Falls Church, Virginia, next to the Mosaic District, and let our team of experts help you look and feel your best.
Core Aesthetic Information
Core Aesthetic is a woman-owned, minority-owned medspa and weight loss clinic located in Falls Church, Virginia, next to the Mosaic District. Services include Botox and other neurotoxins, dermal fillers, PRF, EvolveX body contouring, Morpheus8, microneedling, facials, Diolaze laser hair removal, Lumecca IPL, vaginal rejuvenation (FormaV, Vtone, Morpheus8V), a medical weight loss program (semaglutide, tirzepatide) with monitored weight loss and exercise plans overseen by a medical director, weight loss nurse, and pharmacist, and chemical peels such as the VI Peel. Visit us at Core Aesthetic to learn more about our services and schedule your consultation.
PS: If you are interested in booking your Morpheus8 appointment with us, mention this blog post and get $50 off your first Morpheus8 appointment 😉 Sources:
Marina, V., Godse, K., & Patil, S. (2021). Radiofrequency-based microneedling for skin rejuvenation: a review of literature. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 14, 931–936. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S280872
Alster, T. S., & Tanzi, E. L. (2019). Radiofrequency microneedling for improvement of facial skin laxity and wrinkles: A review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 18(1), 11–15. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12520
Barankin, B., & Andrews, K. (2011). Dermatologic non-surgical skin rejuvenation. Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 15(5), 239–251. doi: 10.2310/7750.2011.10090
Oberg, K. (2021). Minimally invasive radiofrequency-based treatments in dermatology – a review. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 23(1), 1–7. doi: 10.1080/14764172.2020.1827078
