The use of microneedling to treat hair loss has increased, especially among people looking for less invasive, non-surgical options. A potential treatment for those with thinning or pattern hair loss, microneedling was first used for skin rejuvenation. It can stimulate hair follicles and encourage hair regeneration. This article provides an in-depth review of microneedling for hair loss, including its possible benefits how it works, and and what to consider before starting treatment.

Microneedling for Hair Loss

Microneedling is a cosmetic surgery that uses small, thin needles to produce micro-injuries on the scalp. Collagen and growth factors are produced by the body’s natural healing reaction to these controlled injuries, and they may be advantageous for the health of the skin and the development of hair.

Professionals can modify the depth and pace of the needles for the best results when microneedling for hair loss using a portable roller or a tool called a dermapen.

How Does Microneedling for Hair Loss Work?

The micro-injuries from microneedling stimulate growth by:

1. Activating Stem Cells in Hair Follicles: The micro-wounds stimulate the release of stem cells and growth factors in the scalp, which can help revive dormant hair follicles and promote hair growth.
2. Improving Blood Circulation: By enhancing blood flow to the scalp, microneedling can increase the follicles’ supply of nutrients and oxygen.
3. Increasing Absorption of Topical Treatments: When applied to the scalp, microneedling improves the absorption of therapies such as minoxidil and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), increasing the efficacy of these medications.
4. Collagen Production: Similar to skin treatments, microneedling promotes the scalp’s creation of collagen, which gives hair follicles stability and structure and may lessen hair loss.

Benefits of Microneedling for Hair Loss

1. Non-Surgical Solution: Microneedling is a non-invasive procedure that doesn’t involve a lengthy recovery period, in contrast to hair transplant surgery.
2. Possibility of Regrowth: Microneedling can promote hair growth and enhance the look of fullness in those with early to moderate hair thinning.
3. Safe for Most People: Men and women of all ages and hair types may find microneedling to be a good alternative. However, those who have bleeding problems, current infections, or serious skin issues should speak with a healthcare professional first.
4. Minimally Painful: Since numbing cream is often used throughout the surgery, there is very little discomfort. The majority of people characterize the feeling as a little pressure or tingling sensation on the scalp.
5. Promotes the Effectiveness of Topical Treatments: Microneedling may increase the effectiveness of topical medications like minoxidil when used in combination with other treatments, offering greater advantages for hair growth.

What to Expect During a Microneedling Session

1. Consultation: Based on your unique needs, a practitioner will examine your scalp at the initial consultation and choose the best course of action.
2. Preparation: To reduce discomfort, a topical anesthetic may be administered after the scalp has been cleansed.
3. Procedure: The practitioner makes regulated micro-injuries throughout the scalp with a roller instrument or dermapen. Depending on the size of the treatment area, each session lasts around 20 to 30 minutes.
4. Aftercare: Following the operation, you can have moderate sunburn-like redness and some scalp soreness. It is usually advised to refrain from sweating, shampooing, and sun exposure for 24 to 48 hours.
5. Follow-up Treatments: Microneedling treatments should be repeated every three to four weeks for best outcomes, with noticeable changes usually appearing three to six months later.

How to Perform Microneedling for Hair Loss

While professional microneedling is accessible at dermatology clinics, at-home microneedling equipment, like as dermarollers, can be successful when used properly. This is a detailed guide on safe microneedling at home:

1. Choose the Right Tool: Make use of a dermaroller with needles that range in length from 0.25 to 1.5 mm. It is recommended that novices begin with a shorter length (0.25–0.5 mm).
2. Cleanse Your Dermaroller and Scalp: Make sure your scalp is clear of product buildup and oils. To avoid infections, sanitize the dermaroller with rubbing alcohol prior to each usage.
3. Gently Roll Over the Scalp: Partition your scalp into pieces, then use a little pressure to roll the device back and forth in each region. To avoid irritation, don’t roll over the same spot repeatedly.
4. Apply a Topical Treatment (Optional): Minoxidil is one topical hair growth treatment that can be applied following microneedling. Make sure any product used is safe for open skin because the microchannels made by microneedling aid in absorption.
5. Follow with a Healing Serum: After microneedling, some users apply a gentle, fragrance-free healing serum to help calm their scalps. Because the scalp will be sensitive, stay away from products that include harsh chemicals or alcohol.
6. Clean and Store the Dermaroller: Use alcohol to give your dermaroller a thorough cleaning after each use, then keep it somewhere dry and clean.

Potential Side Effects of Microneedling

Although microneedling is usually safe, certain users could encounter:

• Redness and Swelling: Since the scalp may be sensitive after treatment, mild redness and swelling are typical. Usually, this goes away in a day or two.
• Temporary Shedding: Following microneedling, some patients experience a little increase in hair loss, which may be a normal aspect of the hair regeneration cycle.
• Risk of Infection: The dermaroller may spread bacteria to the scalp if it is not well cleaned. Before and after every usage, make sure the gadget is clean.

Before you try microneedling, see a dermatologist if you have any open sores or scalp disorders like psoriasis or dermatitis, as it may make them worse.

Minoxidil and Microneedling

According to research, minoxidil and microneedling greatly promote hair growth. By making microscopic holes in the epidermis, microneedling improves minoxidil absorption by enabling the substance to penetrate deeper layers of the scalp and more efficiently stimulate follicles.

Apply minoxidil after microneedling when combining the two procedures, but make sure there is no irritation since this can occasionally result in greater sensitivity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Microneedling for Hair Loss

1. Does microneedling work for all types of hair loss?

Microneedling is most effective for early stages of androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) but may also help with thinning from other causes. However, it’s less effective for scarring alopecia or advanced baldness.

2. Can I combine microneedling with other treatments?

Yes, microneedling can be combined with treatments like minoxidil, PRP, and hair growth serums. Consult with your provider to determine the best combination for your situation.

3. Are there side effects of microneedling on the scalp?

Mild redness, tingling, or tenderness may occur but typically resolves within a day or two. Infection risks are low with professional treatment but may increase with at-home microneedling.

4. How soon will I see the results?

Visible results vary but often appear after 3-6 months of consistent treatment. Microneedling’s effectiveness can depend on hair loss type, frequency of treatments, and combined therapies.

Final Thoughts

For people with thinning hair, microneedling is a viable, minimally intrusive option. It can help fight hair loss by promoting healthy hair growth and stimulating the scalp, particularly when combined with other therapies. See a dermatologist or hair loss expert if you’re interested in attempting microneedling to find out if it’s right for you and what course of therapy will work best.