What are the medical contraindications to microneedling and dermal fillers?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: May 9, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

Microneedling and dermal fillers are contraindicated in patients with active skin infections, open wounds, active acne, psoriasis, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions, as well as those with a history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring, on anticoagulant therapy, or with blood clotting disorders. When considering microneedling, it is essential to avoid areas with tattoos or permanent makeup 1. Additionally, patients should be advised to avoid sunlight and heavily scented facial creams/products for 24 hours post-op 1. For dermal fillers, contraindications include active infections at the injection site, known allergies to filler components, autoimmune disorders, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and a history of severe allergies or anaphylaxis. Some key points to consider when evaluating contraindications for these procedures include:

  • Active skin conditions that may be exacerbated by the procedure
  • History of abnormal scarring or bleeding disorders
  • Current use of anticoagulant therapy or blood thinners
  • Presence of tattoos or permanent makeup in the treatment area
  • Recent use of isotretinoin (Accutane) within the past 6-12 months
  • Autoimmune disorders or severe allergies It is crucial to conduct a thorough medical history and consultation with a healthcare provider before undergoing either microneedling or dermal fillers to ensure safe and effective treatment 1.

From the Research

Medical Contraindications to Micro Needling and Derma Fillers

  • Keloid formation: Patients with a history of keloid formation may be at risk of developing keloids after micro needling or derma fillers, as these procedures involve dermal injury or inflammation 2, 3.
  • Autoimmune diseases: Patients with autoimmune diseases such as lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, dermatomyositis, and scleroderma may be at risk of developing skin manifestations or exacerbating their condition with micro needling or derma fillers 4, 5, 6.
  • Skin conditions: Patients with certain skin conditions such as cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) may require special consideration before undergoing micro needling or derma fillers, as these procedures may trigger or worsen their condition 6.
  • Immune system disorders: Patients with immune system disorders or those taking immunosuppressive medications may be at risk of developing infections or other complications after micro needling or derma fillers 5.

Specific Considerations

  • Keloid disease: Patients with keloid disease may be at higher risk of developing keloids after micro needling or derma fillers, and may require combination therapy to manage their condition 3.
  • Lupus erythematosus: Patients with lupus erythematosus may require special consideration before undergoing micro needling or derma fillers, as these procedures may trigger or worsen their condition, and may require topical or systemic treatments to manage their skin manifestations 6.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Keloids: pathophysiology and management.

Dermatology online journal, 2007

Research

Recognising skin manifestations of rheumatological disease.

Australian journal of general practice, 2021

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.