A Melbourne man’s anticipation for a first date turned into an unexpected cosmetic ordeal when a pre-date microneedling session left his face visibly red and flushed. Kyle Hunt, 25, sought a dermatologist for a shampoo but was persuaded to undergo the minimally invasive skin treatment, only to realize too late that the procedure’s common side effect would clash dramatically with his evening plans.
The Microneedling Miscalculation
Kyle Hunt visited his dermatologist just a few hours before a scheduled first date. During the appointment, his dermatologist suggested he try microneedling, a procedure designed to improve skin concerns such as acne scars, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. The treatment involves using a device equipped with tiny needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin’s top layer, stimulating collagen production and skin regeneration.
Kyle recalled the moment, stating, “I went to my dermatologist to get a shampoo, she upsold me microneedling. She said it makes your skin glowing.” Unbeknownst to his dermatologist, Kyle was heading out on a first date later that same day. He neglected to mention his upcoming social engagement, a detail that would soon prove significant.
The Immediate Aftermath
Upon leaving the clinic, Kyle’s face was noticeably red. Microneedling is known to cause temporary redness, often described as similar to a mild to moderate sunburn, which can persist for at least 24 hours. This immediate post-treatment effect left Kyle feeling self-conscious about his appearance.
“Bro, I can’t even go outside,” Kyle remarked, visibly embarrassed and attempting to shield himself with a black hoodie. He later expressed his dismay with a laugh, “Absolutely chopped me in half.” The irony of the situation was not lost on him, as he shared his experience, warning others: “Don’t try microneedling before a date.”
Online Reactions and Skincare Advice
Kyle’s account of his microneedling mishap quickly gained traction online, with his video being viewed over 100,000 times. Many viewers pointed out the common understanding within the skincare community that the “glow” from microneedling typically appears weeks after the skin has fully healed, not immediately after the procedure.
Comments reflected a mix of amusement and shared experience. One user humorously suggested, “Maybe she forgot to mention that it glows red first.” Another added, “I mean it will make your skin glow… but only after it heals.”
Experienced skincare professionals chimed in with practical advice, emphasizing the importance of timing for cosmetic procedures. A skin therapist explained, “As a skin therapist, you never do needling the day or night of an event, always two weeks before for that glow.” Another therapist expressed shock, stating, “As a skin therapist, I almost died when you said you had a date after.”
Some commenters speculated lightheartedly about the dermatologist’s intentions, with one joking that she might have “sabotaged” his date. Another suggested, “Food for thought, does the dermatologist have the hots for you?” Others offered a more optimistic outlook, encouraging Kyle to proceed with his date.
“Still go – if she has a great personality she will find it as funny as you do,” one commenter advised. Another suggested, “I don’t think this would sabotage your chances, it would most likely impress her that you care about your skincare.” Several individuals shared similar stories of undergoing microneedling before social events, highlighting that such experiences are not uncommon.
Kyle’s Decision and Previous Dating Encounters
Faced with his visibly red complexion, Kyle ultimately decided to cancel his first date. “Hell nah I’m gonna cancel,” he stated, opting to avoid the potentially awkward situation.
This incident follows another unusual dating experience Kyle shared earlier in the year. While on a Hinge date, a woman he had just met casually asked if he would buy her a $90,000 car. The woman presented a Ford Raptor, inquiring, “What if you bought it for me? No, like if you actually bought me this car?”
Kyle, an entrepreneur, explained that he gently reminded her they were only on their first date. The woman reportedly persisted, even suggesting she would do “whatever it takes” to get the vehicle. Kyle found the request unreasonable, especially as he was paying for the dinner, and ultimately decided against it.
Reflecting on that encounter, Kyle joked, “The strange thing is, the date went so well and she was a laugh… I thought we’d wait until after the divorce to screw each other over.” He expressed his disillusionment with the current dating landscape, lamenting, “I didn’t realise the dating scene is so bad now.” The experience led him to delete the Hinge app.
Understanding Microneedling
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a dermatological procedure that uses fine needles to create tiny punctures in the skin. This controlled injury triggers the body’s natural healing response, leading to increased collagen and elastin production.
The benefits of microneedling can include:
- Reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Improvement in acne scars and other types of scarring.
- Minimization of pore size.
- Enhanced skin texture and firmness.
- Increased absorption of topical skincare products.
While generally considered safe, common side effects include temporary redness, mild swelling, and sensitivity, similar to a sunburn. These effects usually subside within a few days. Skincare professionals typically advise patients to avoid sun exposure and strenuous activity immediately after treatment and to allow adequate healing time before major events to achieve optimal results.
The incident involving Kyle Hunt serves as a humorous, albeit inconvenient, reminder of the importance of consulting with skincare professionals about treatment timelines, especially when significant social events are on the horizon. Proper planning ensures that the desired skin improvements can be enjoyed without the unintended consequence of a temporarily flushed appearance.


