Does Microneedling Really Work For Hair Loss? The Evidence So Far

Reviewed by Sanaz Vosough, RPh.

Written by the UPGUYS Editorial Team

Published on November 23, 2023

Microneedling, a procedure once confined to the offices of dermatologists, has found its way into the home-care routines of those battling hair loss. This technique, also known as collagen induction therapy, involves a device tipped with fine needles that create tiny punctures in the scalp.

The principle behind this is simple yet profound: these micro-injuries are intended to kickstart the body's natural healing process, promoting increased blood flow, and collagen production, and encouraging the rejuvenation of hair follicles.

Its rising popularity as an at-home treatment speaks to the allure of microneedling's promise for stimulating hair growth, offering a beacon of hope for individuals seeking to counteract the effects of hair thinning and loss.

Topics covered in this article:

Microneedling Mechanism Explained

Microneedling operates on a simple yet ingenious premise:

1. Micro-injuries: Tiny needles puncture the skin, creating micro-injuries that initiate the healing process.
2. Healing Cascade: These punctures trigger the release of growth factors and stimulate collagen production, both vital for skin renewal and hair growth.
3. Enhanced Circulation: The process improves blood flow to the hair follicles, providing them with more nutrients and oxygen.
4. Topical Absorption: The micro-channels can increase the absorption rate of topical options like minoxidil, potentially boosting their effectiveness.

Read more: What Does DHT Have To Do With Hair Loss?

Research on Microneedling and Regrowth

The evidence linking microneedling to hair regrowth is cautiously optimistic, based on a blend of anecdotal success and early scientific studies. Small-scale research suggests that when microneedling is paired with traditional treatments, patients often see improved hair growth compared to using the traditional treatments alone.

These findings indicate that microneedling might enhance the effectiveness of other treatments, acting synergistically to awaken dormant hair follicles. However, it's important to note that the body of research is still in its infancy, with a need for more extensive, long-term studies to solidify these observations and to understand the full potential of microneedling in hair regrowth.

In short:

1. Standalone Treatment: The evidence for microneedling as a lone therapy is not robust, with only a handful of small studies yielding mixed results on its effectiveness for hair regrowth.
2. With minoxidil: More promising are the studies indicating that microneedling, when used in conjunction with minoxidil, may enhance the drug's absorption, leading to better outcomes. Yet, this research, too, suffers from a lack of depth and a small number of participants.
3. Alopecia Specifics: While there has been some focus on common types like androgenic alopecia and alopecia areata, the evidence for microneedling's effectiveness across various other forms of hair loss remains sparse.

Setting Realistic Expectations

When considering Microneedling for hair loss, it's essential to manage expectations:

1. The level of hair regrowth can significantly vary from person to person, influenced by the extent and duration of hair loss experienced.
2. Results are not typically immediate and may require repeated microneedling sessions to maintain and enhance hair growth benefits over time.

Microneedling: Safety First

Adhering to safety protocols is crucial in Microneedling to mitigate risks:

1. Risk of Complications: Incorrect techniques can lead to infections or scarring.
2. Needle Length: Utilizing shorter needles is generally advised, especially for at-home treatments.
3. Sanitization and Aftercare: Proper sterilization of equipment and following aftercare instructions are essential to prevent adverse effects.

Read more: Low Iron And Hair Loss: Top Foods That Can Help

Consult Experts Before Microneedling

Before embarking on Microneedling, it's critical to consult with a dermatologist:

1. They can assess the nature and cause of hair loss to determine if microneedling is an appropriate treatment.
2. A professional evaluation helps ascertain whether an individual is a suitable candidate for the procedure.
3. The consultation is also key to identifying any contraindications that could rule out microneedling as a safe option.

Read more: Hair Loss Diagnosis

Beware of Overstated Claims

Caution is warranted when navigating the world of Microneedling, particularly regarding marketing claims:

1. The market is rife with aggressive advertising that often isn't supported by substantial scientific evidence.
2. Promises of "dramatic regrowth" should be approached with skepticism, as they may exceed what current research can conclusively support.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while microneedling for hair loss shows promise, the body of research remains thin, signaling a need for further study. Combining Microneedling with established treatments might offer the best shot at regrowth.

For those considering this therapy, a discussion with a hair loss specialist is imperative to navigate the options and tailor an approach that suits individual needs and circumstances.