Microneedling for Hair Loss: Can It Help Regrow Thinning Hair?

If you’re struggling with hair loss or thinning hair, you’ve probably tried every shampoo, serum, and treatment under the sun to help regrow your locks. But have you ever considered microneedling? This increasingly popular treatment involves using tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the scalp, which is believed to stimulate hair growth. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at microneedling for hair loss and whether it’s a viable option for those looking to regrow their thinning hair.

What is microneedling for hair loss?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that involves using a device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. This prompts the body to produce collagen and elastin, which can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. Microneedling is also used to treat a range of skin concerns, including acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and stretch marks.

Microneedling for hair loss, also known as scalp microneedling or microneedling therapy, is a treatment that involves using the same concept but on the scalp. It’s believed that the tiny injuries created by the needles stimulate blood flow and the production of growth factors, which can help to regrow hair.

How does microneedling for hair loss work?

During a microneedling for hair loss treatment, a professional will use a handheld device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the scalp. These micro-injuries are thought to stimulate the body’s natural healing response, which can help to increase blood flow and the production of growth factors in the scalp.

The theory is that these growth factors, including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), promote the growth of new hair follicles and strengthen existing ones. The needles used during the treatment also create tiny channels in the scalp, which can help hair growth products to penetrate deeper into the scalp.

Is microneedling for hair loss effective?

While the theory behind microneedling for hair loss is promising, the research is still in its early stages. There have been some small studies and case reports that suggest microneedling can be effective in promoting hair growth, but larger, more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these findings.

In one small study published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, researchers found that microneedling combined with a topical hair growth solution led to significant improvement in hair growth in people with androgenetic alopecia, a common form of hair loss. However, it’s important to note that this was a small study and more research is needed to confirm these results.

How often should you get microneedling for hair loss?

The frequency of microneedling treatments for hair loss will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of your hair loss, your individual response to treatment, and the recommendations of your professional.

In general, it’s recommended that you receive a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart to see optimal results. This may mean getting treatments once a month, once every two weeks, or once a week, depending on your unique needs.

What are the potential side effects of microneedling for hair loss?

Like any cosmetic treatment, microneedling for hair loss does carry some potential risks and side effects. These may include:

• Mild pain or discomfort during the treatment
• Redness or swelling of the scalp
• Itching or flaking of the scalp
• Minor bleeding or bruising at the treatment site

Most of these side effects are temporary and will resolve on their own within a few days to a week. However, if you experience any persistent or concerning side effects, be sure to contact your professional.

Can anyone get microneedling for hair loss?

Microneedling for hair loss is generally safe for most people, but there are some exceptions. It’s not recommended for people who:

• Have active scalp infections or open wounds on the scalp
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a history of keloid scarring or other abnormal scarring

If you have any concerns about whether microneedling for hair loss is right for you, be sure to consult with your professional.

How much does microneedling for hair loss cost?

The cost of microneedling for hair loss can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including the location of the professional, the type of device used, and the number of treatments needed. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars for a series of treatments.

Is microneedling for hair loss painful?

Microneedling for hair loss is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience mild pain or discomfort during the treatment. Most professionals will apply a numbing cream or local anesthesia to the scalp before the treatment to minimize any discomfort.

How long does it take to see results from microneedling for hair loss?

The timeline for seeing results from microneedling for hair loss can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the severity of your hair loss, the frequency of your treatments, and your individual response to the treatment. In general, most people will start to see some improvement in their hair growth within a few months of starting treatment.

Are there any alternatives to microneedling for hair loss?

If you’re not interested in microneedling for hair loss, there are a variety of other treatments and products that may help to stimulate hair growth. Some options include:

• Topical minoxidil (Rogaine)
• Oral finasteride (Propecia)
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Low-level laser therapy (LLLT)

How can you maintain healthy hair?

While microneedling for hair loss may help to promote hair growth, there are a variety of other steps you can take to maintain healthy, strong hair. Some tips include:

• Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients
• Avoiding harsh chemicals and heat styling tools
• Using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
• Protecting your hair from the sun and environmental damage

Can microneedling be done at home?

While there are a variety of at-home microneedling devices available, it’s generally recommended that you leave microneedling for hair loss to the professionals. At-home devices

may not be as effective as professional treatments and can carry a higher risk of injury or infection if not used properly.

Conclusion

Microneedling for hair loss is a minimally invasive treatment that may help to stimulate hair growth and improve the appearance of thinning hair. While it’s generally considered safe and effective, it’s important to work with a professional to ensure that you receive the proper treatment and achieve the best possible results.

If you’re interested in microneedling for hair loss, be sure to consult with a professional to discuss your options and develop a treatment plan that’s tailored to your unique needs.

FAQs

References:

1. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Microneedling. https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/scars-stretch-marks/microneedling
2. Healthline. Microneedling: Benefits, Side Effects, and What to Expect. https://www.healthline.com/health/microneedling
3. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology. Microneedling: A Comprehensive Review. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4976400/
4. Dermatology Times. Microneedling: Benefits beyond aesthetics. https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/microneedling-benefits-beyond-aesthetics
5. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. Microneedling therapy in androgenic alopecia: A pilot study. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3746236/