Microneedling For Hair Loss – Everything You Need to Know

What is microneedling for hair loss?

Microneedling is a treatment that involves creating tiny punctures in the top layer of the skin called the epidermis with very small needles. This is a minimally invasive and relatively new treatment. By creating tiny punctures in the skin it stimulates the natural healing properties of the skin to encourage regrowth. 

It can be used to encourage the production of collagen to heal the skin as well as promote hair growth. As the hair follicles are located just underneath the scalp, microneedling can promote the growth factors in the skin and the follicles to encourage hair to grow in places where it had previously stopped. 

The treatment can be performed in a clinic with a trained professional or at home using a dermaroller or dermapen. Check out the FAQs for microneedling below and see how it stacks up with treatments like PEMF therapy and LLLT. 

Highlights

• Microneedling can help to promote hair growth from dormant follicles
• The treatment can be performed in a clinic or at home depending on the hair loss
• It is a minimally invasive treatment which can be combined with other solutions

Core Evaluation Criteria

Microneedling for hair loss effectiveness

As microneedling is a relatively new treatment in the dermatology field, research is still being conducted into the effectiveness of its ability to help hair growth. From the studies that have been conducted, microneedling appears to be effective for a range of conditions from alopecia to wrinkles, aging skin, and scars. 

A 2015 study that looked at androgenic alopecia patients who were unsuccessful in other treatments found that by adding microneedling to their treatment they were able to significantly increase the growth of hair in all patients. The satisfaction rating of the patients saw a 75 per cent increase as well. More research is needed to confirm its efficacy but initial reports appear promising. 

Microneedling seems to be a good option for the treatment of hair loss along with a range of skin issues. In a different 2018 case study, a patient with alopecia areata saw a near-complete regrowth of hair when microneedling was paired with a steroid established for hair loss treatment in autoimmune disease-related hair loss known as triamcinolone. The results were visible after 6 months which gives a good indication as to the time needed to see results.

Microneedling for hair loss cost

If seeking microneedling in a clinic, costs can range anywhere from $50 – $225 per session. The initial treatment period will likely involve 1-2 treatments per week over 3-4 months which can add up. Your microneedling treatment may be combined with another in-clinic treatment such as PRP injections so this is another factor to consider when looking at cost. 

If opting for an at-home treatment there are several types of devices to choose from that range in cost. Dermarollers are usually between $40 and $300 and are widely available. Be cautious of cheaper devices in the $10 to $20 range as they may be of poor quality and are not safe to use. 

While this can be a good long-term investment compared to clinical visits, dermarollers are less precise than clinical-grade machines that your dermatologist would use which offer better results. Dermapens are similar to dermarollers but the price range is lower, between $60 and $175. This offers a more precise application if you’re looking to target small bald patches while a dermaroller is probably more effective if you want to cover a wider area of hair thinning.

Microneedling for hair loss treatment duration

Research is still being done on the ideal treatment times and the total treatment period. As a relatively new development in the field of hair restoration treatments, the total treatment time and period will also depend on whether microneedling is combined with another treatment or not. 

Monotherapy for microneedling has not been proven to be effective as of yet but could still yield some results. A microneedling hair loss treatment is a generally quick procedure whether in a clinic or at home. The device such as a dermaroller or dermapen is disinfected before application. 

Your face should be clean before application also. The device is then applied to the area of hair loss for a brief period. Your treatment may be combined with another solution such as minoxidil so this can be a factor in time commitment. Studies have indicated that results can be seen after around 6 months but you may see early signs of growth after 3 months. Semi-regular top-up treatments may be needed in the long term to maintain results.

Microneedling for hair loss safety

Microneedling comes with some minor side effects. These include redness, mild swelling, and flaking. While commonly reported, these side effects usually subside within a few hours. Some rarer but more severe side effects include an allergic reaction, infection due to unclean equipment or skin, pigmentation changes, and the spread of active acne. 

Because of this microneedling is not recommended for people with acne or herpes. The treatment can cause organisms to spread leading to infection in other areas. The stimulation of growth factors along with melanin through the application of microneedling can lead to hyperpigmentation. This risk is higher in those with darker skin tones. 

Most reports of side effects are mild and well-tolerated but it’s worth discussing with your doctor before beginning treatment, either in a clinic or at home. Microneedling is considered to be safe although it has not been approved by medical boards such as the FDA as of yet. 

If using a microneedling device at home it’s important to clean your device by submerging your dermaroller in an alcohol solution to disinfect it. You should also keep your skin clean before treatment to prevent any spread of bacteria.

Microneedling for hair loss ease of use

Microneedling is a fairly simple procedure whether performed at home or in a clinic. Visits with a dermatologist for the treatment may be time-consuming in terms of frequency but the procedure is generally quite quick. The range of devices available for at-home use is ever-expanding so it’s important to do some research before making a purchase. 

While dermarollers in the upper price range may be more effective for at-home use, they will not be able to match the professional-grade devices that your dermatologist will have access to. Consumers should manage their expectations when it comes to the effectiveness of products that promise medical-grade accuracy. 

Results for at-home microneedling indicate moderate improvements for treating alopecia. If opting for at-home treatment the device you go for will likely be influenced by the type of hair loss you have. If you’re looking to target a large area of thinning a dermaroller will be more suitable while a dermapen may yield better results if you’re targeting your hairline.

Microneedling for hair loss accessibility

As a growing trend in the beauty industry, microneedling devices are becoming more widely available. It is not advised to opt for a cheap device in case of infection. Name-brand dermarollers or dermapens are of medical grade, produced in a sterile environment, and inspected for quality. 

Cheaper versions may not have these qualities so do your research before purchasing an at-home device. Innovations in microneedling are leading to new products that combine the treatment with other beneficial elements. 

For example, microneedling devices with radiofrequencies (RF) allow for tiny radio waves to heat the structures beneath the skin to encourage the formation of new collagen and elastin. This technology is still being studied for its application in hair growth but the device has shown positive results in skin treatment. 

These devices are on the higher end of the cost scale at around $1,300 to $1,700. Clinical treatments will allow your dermatologist to monitor your progress over time and provide recommendations regarding combining microneedling with any other treatments and the length of time required for the desired results.

Microneedling for hair loss sustainability of results

As microneedling for hair loss is still a treatment that is being studied it is uncertain as to its efficacy. Results from clinical trials appear to be promising in the treatment of various types of hair loss. Consensus has not been reached as to microneedling best practices and there are no standardised protocols. 

Studies have produced tangible results in improving the hair quality, thickness, and density of patients. How effective the treatment will be over time may also be connected to whether microneedling is done in combination with any other forms of hair loss treatment. 

Research is still being conducted into its effectiveness as a monotherapy, whether it should be combined with established treatments or used as a delivery system for solutions like minoxidil. Similar to building muscle, the healing powers of the human body being used to improve skin and hair is a growing area of research. 

Trials have pointed to the treatment being effective, safe, having minimal side effects, is low invasive, and can be paired with other treatments. This means it can work well in the short term and long-term negative effects seem unlikely although more research is required to confirm this.

Microneedling for hair loss compatibility with other treatments

Microneedling is most often combined with minoxidil and results show the pairing is extremely effective. Since minoxidil acts as a vasodilator meaning it widens the blood vessels and allows for more blood to reach the target areas, it works well in combination with microneedling as it primes the treatment area beforehand for improved results. 

Studies have shown a significant difference in results when treatments of minoxidil only and the minoxidil-microneedling combination were compared. The minoxidil-only group in a 2013 study of 100 men saw an improvement of 22.2 follicles per cm2 while the combination minoxidil and microneedling group saw an improvement of 91.4 follicles per cm2. 

This showed the combination was four times more effective compared to using minoxidil on its own. Other studies did not report substantial differences but were still impressive. The follow-up experiment to the 2013 study saw men taking finasteride and 5 per cent minoxidil who were not enjoying results to try incorporating microneedling into their routine. 

This increased results according to the patients by between 50 and 75 per cent after 6 months.

Microneedling for hair loss emotional appeal

According to a report by diaminy.com, users in their microneedling forum reported an increase in hair density within weeks of beginning microneedling treatments. Their hair appeared to grow faster and the health of the scalp was improved with issues like dryness and irritation being reduced. 

Some of the drawbacks observed were the potentially temporary nature of results highlighting the need for consistency to maintain the benefits. Other drawbacks were the discomfort of some people new to microneedling experience and the need for professional guidance in some cases as improper technique can have a negative impact. 

The differences in treatment came down to personal hair loss and routine. This includes the depth of the needle in your device, the frequency of sessions (usually between every 4 and 6 weeks to begin with), and whether it should be paired with a topical treatment. 

Users also shared advice on the pre-treatment preparations which can help with results like disinfecting the equipment and cleaning the treatment site before use as well as aftercare post-microneedling by avoiding strenuous activity for a while and allowing any topical product applied time to absorb.

Microneedling for hair loss health benefits beyond hair loss

Microneedling is also used in skin treatments so it can have additional benefits for your scalp. The tiny wounds created through the use of a dermaroller stimulate the production of collagen and allow the skin to heal with a younger appearance. Microneedling scalp benefits can be enjoyed since this is the treatment site for hair loss. 

If you have scalp issues such as dryness and irritation they can be reduced through the use of a dermaroller. Microneedling has a range of applications from cosmetically improving the appearance of skin to treating a range of skin conditions. This includes helping to heal surgical and acne scars along with melasma or freckle patches. 

Microneedling may also be referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT) particularly if you are seeking treatment for a skin condition or cosmetic reasons. CIT is popular for helping to rejuvenate skin not just because of collagen stimulation but also because the production of elastin improves the appearance of skin. 

Microneedling for hair loss environmental impact

The environmental impact of purchasing an at-home device would leave a relatively small carbon footprint in terms of the production of the device and the shipping environmental impact. 

Since the device is designed to be reused it does not create a lot of medical waste and the biological material created through microneedling is usually fairly minimal since bleeding from the treatment area is not a common side effect. In comparison at clinics, the environmental impact may be higher. Since different patients are being treated with the same devices, the needles used may be swapped out before each patient which creates medical waste. 

If improperly disposed of, medical waste can cause biological contamination which harms the environment. The carbon footprint of travelling to and from the clinic, particularly if you live far away from a treatment centre that offers microneedling, should also be factored into the environmental impact of microneedling.

Microneedling for hair loss treatment method

Microneedling for hair loss is a minimally invasive, topical treatment. The process is very similar whether it is administered in a clinic or at home.

• Ensure the hands and workspace on which the device is resting are clean and disinfected. The device should sit in alcohol for 20 minutes and then air dry.
• The scalp should be prepared by washing it with a mild shampoo to remove dirt and oils.
• The microneedling device is then applied with gentle pressure over the treatment area.
• After each use, the dermaroller or dermapen should be cleaned and disinfected.

Following microneedling you may apply a topical solution like minoxidil to boost results or if you’re in a clinic you may receive a treatment like PRP injections following the application of the dermaroller.

FAQs

Is microneedling suitable for everyone?

Most people are good candidates for microneedling. However, if you have a blood disorder, active acne, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have diabetes you should consult with your doctor or a qualified dermatologist before considering this treatment. Even if you want to invest in an at-home device it is best to discuss it with a medical professional beforehand in case you are sensitive to the treatment.

What is the DermaFrac device?

The latest in microneedling technology which is available at some clinics or spas is the DermaFrac. This device costs between $5000 and $11,000, but treatment sessions in a clinic or spa cost around $225 each. The device combines microneedling, microdermabrasion, serum infusion, and LED light therapy for an individualized approach. 

This is because the serum used can be adjusted depending on hair or skin type. This device does not have the same level of medical backing as dermarollers or dermapens but research is being conducted as to their efficacy.

What kind of aftercare is involved with microneedling for hair loss treatment?

In order to achieve the best results your scalp needs some time to heal properly and there are some things you should avoid. As your scalp will be slightly vulnerable you should avoid direct contact with UV rays from the sun, and wear a hat if going outside. You can resume your normal routine with hair care products after a day or two with products that are friendly to your scalp.

How many microneedling sessions do I need to see results?

Results vary depending on the person but improvements can be observed after three to six months usually. This means committing to a session once a week for at least 8-12 weeks. After this, you may notice an improvement in hair thickness and growth. 

Can microneedling work for complete baldness?

As microneedling results have been observed in those who had thinning hair or were in the beginning stages of hair loss, its effectiveness at regrowing hair if you are completely bald is not as likely. 

Is microneedling for hair loss painful?

Your scalp may be sensitive to the tiny needles used in a dermaroller. If your skin is particularly sensitive a numbing cream can be used to minimise the discomfort. While you may see some redness after the treatment, it’s rare to experience swelling or bleeding.

How big are the needles used for microneedling?

The needles used in microneedling are very small. The exact size will be determined by a number of factors in a clinical setting depending on the extent of hair loss and other genetic conditions. Since the goal is to create micro-injuries, the needles need to be small enough to just disrupt the top layer of skin. 

Are there risks associated with microneedling at home?

Typically at home, microneedling devices are designed not to cause too much damage if improperly used. The length of the needles is usually a lot shorter compared to clinical-grade devices. Improper use of a professional dermaroller could cause damage to your skin or lead to an infection. Only a licensed and trained clinician should use a professional microneedling device.

Are there types of hair loss that microneedling won’t help with?

If you’re experiencing hair loss it’s important to diagnose what the cause of the hair loss is. Although more research is required into the efficacy of microneedling in treating different forms of hair loss, it has shown promising results in treating androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata. If your hair loss is due to a nutrient deficiency, for example, microneedling will likely not help with regrowing your lost hair.

Can microneedling for hair loss replace other treatments?

While research is still being conducted as to the effectiveness of microneedling as a monotherapy, the treatment is best employed when used in conjunction with other treatment methods instead of replacing them. These include topical solutions like minoxidil and clinical treatments like PRP injections. 

How long do microneedling for hair loss results last?

The results from microneedling sessions are not permanent and may require maintenance sessions to continue enjoying the benefits. That being said, the results from this treatment can last anywhere from several months to a year but this can depend on a variety of factors like your skin type and the extent of your hair loss.

Can I wash my hair after a microneedling for hair loss treatment?

You should avoid washing your hair for at least 4 hours after a microneedling treatment to avoid causing scalp irritation or introducing bacteria to the treatment area. If used at night, it is recommended to sleep on a clean pillowcase to also prevent any possible infections.

Are there other types of microneedling devices? 

Besides the previously highlighted devices, you may come across automated microneedling devices in a clinical context. These use motorized needles to change the depth of penetration to allow for more control and consistent results. You may also see HydraRollers which combine microneedling with a serum infusion to improve hydration and skin rejuvenation.

Who are the ideal candidates for microneedling for hair loss?

People who are best suited to microneedling for hair loss are those who are in the early to moderate stages of hair loss, are looking for a minimally invasive treatment, and want to boost the results of treatments they already take such as minoxidil. 

How can I maximize my microneedling for hair loss results?

Some tips to maximize your success include choosing a qualified professional if seeking clinical treatment, adhering to the aftercare instructions like avoiding the sun and avoiding washing your hair straight after, being patient as results can take months to appear, and considering combining microneedling with other treatments like PRP or minoxidil to boost results.

Should I choose microneedling or a hair transplant to treat my hair loss?

The two treatments are very different in terms of approach and results. Microneedling is less invasive compared to hair transplantation and can work well for those who are in the early stages of hair loss. Hair transplants are more effective treatments for those with significant balding or thinning who want a more permanent and noticeable solution.