Microneedling for hair loss – Does it work?

Microneedling for hair loss - Does it work?

Hair loss or alopecia is a distressing health condition that may affect people of any age and gender. It may lead to baldness or a receding hairline and as we know, healthy and beautiful hair has always been one of the most important components of physical beauty. This makes hair loss a cause for anxiety and lack of self-confidence. There are plenty of hair loss prevention tips available on the internet – from vitamin pills to oils, shampoos, and conditioners. However, they seldom give a satisfactory result. If youā€™ve been experiencing hair fall, Finpecia 1 mg tablets may help prevent further hair loss and stimulate hair regrowth (Use it only after consulting your doctor). But if you have already tried and tested almost everything for hair loss and nothing seems to help, maybe itā€™s time to consider microneedling.Ā 

What is Microneedling?

It is a cosmetic treatment or procedure that was originally meant to help produce more collagen and elastin in the skin as they make one look younger. But it has shown promising results in increasing hair growth in people suffering from androgenic alopecia as well.

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Process of Microneedling

The procedure of microneedling for hair loss involves the use of a skin roller (aka derma roller) which is a device with microneedles. The size of these needles can be anywhere between 0.15 mm to 1.5 mm. One researcher found the 0.25 mm and 0.50 mm needle sizes to give optimum results.

First, a topical anesthetic is applied to the affected area of the scalp, about 45 minutes before the treatment begins. It is done to minimize the pain you might experience. Then the derma roller is rolled on the affected area to induce micro-injuries on the scalp. This might take 10 to 20 minutes or more. Depending on how much area is being treated. Lastly, another topical cream or injection may be applied based on the goal of this procedure.

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Benefits of Microneedling

Microneedling induces the hair follicles to regrow hair, either by activating the hair growth factors or by the healing of the small injuries. It also forms transdermal microchannels in the skin, increasing its permeability to drug particles and proteins. This latter application is particularly useful if someone wants to take minoxidil solution through microneedling. There is some evidence that microneedling with minoxidil solution gives superior results than when the two methods are used separately.

Side effects of Microneedling

Microneedling involves the use of needles to cause wounds on the scalp and so it may cause some bruises and pain. Swelling and redness are also two possible side effects because of the abrasive nature of this therapy. It is extremely important to use properly sterilized needles. Otherwise, the wounds may get infected. And lastly, the wounds might leave scars on your scalp.

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At-home v/s in-clinic microneedling

Although at-home sessions can save you a lot of money, they usually give poor results because of the following reasons-

  • Use of wrong-sized needles.
  • Inability to properly see the area that requires treatment (if done by oneself).
  • Lack of professional precision and efficiency in using the derma roller.
  • Not knowing how much or how little rolling is needed.
  • Not knowing how much pressure to exert.
  • Lack of other helpful treatments like platelet-rich plasma, etc.

These drawbacks may keep you from achieving the full benefit of microneedling. Hence, seeking the help of a professional is better. It will also ensure that you experience minimum side effects. And in the future, if you do face any issue, they will be there to help you. So, take care in selecting an experienced dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon because although the risks are very few, you would still ideally want to have zero complications in the future.

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Things to keep in mind

If youā€™ve had any of the following problems in the past or if you are suffering from them in the present, let your doctor know:

  • Acne or eczema
  • You take blood-thinning medicines
  • Diabetes or any other condition that causes the wounds to heal slowly
  • If you are pregnant

Additionally, keep in mind that microneedling may make your scalp susceptible to sunlight. So, wear sun protection to avoid sunburn and rashes. 

Use of topical minoxidil right after the treatment may cause irritation or itching because of the excess absorption rate. So, talk to your doctor prior to using it. You may take oral tablets like Fincar 5 mg instead, which also aid in hair regrowth.

Conclusion

Microneedling may be the solution to hair loss conditions, especially for male pattern baldness. It is not a panacea but can definitely aid your other treatment methods like medicines or hair care solutions. Although it can be done at home, but clinic treatment should be preferred. Because a professional approach can give you much better results. So, talk to your doctor about all the available options for hair regrowth today.

Hope you like the info. So, tell us about you experience through email or in the comment section below.

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