Guide to Microneedling for Hair loss: How to Make it Work

Hair loss, medically known as alopecia, is a condition where individuals experience a disruption in their hair growth cycle, resulting in gradual or sudden hair loss. While ageing is commonly associated with hair loss, it can also be caused by hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, or underlying medical conditions.

Baldness or thinning hair can greatly affect a person’s self-confidence and quality of life. What do you do when taking supplements, hair tonics, and switching shampoos do not suffice?

Thankfully, there are minimally invasive treatments to neutralise hair loss without surgery and virtually no downtime. One such treatment is microneedling for hair loss, a hair regrowth treatment that leverages on the body’s natural healing mechanisms for thicker and fuller hair. In this blog post, you’ll find out what microneedling is and how it helps tackle hair loss. But, first, let’s look at the symptoms of hair loss, so you can identify the warning signs.

Signs and symptoms of hair loss

• A thinner ponytail
• Bald spots or patches of hair on your head
• Loose hair 
• Gradually thinning hair that starts from the top of your head
• A painful or itchy scalp
• Excessive hair shedding
• Changes in hair texture

How microneedling works 

Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, is based on the science of wound healing and the body’s natural regenerative processes. By leveraging on the skin’s healing response, skin quality and appearance can be improved. 

This minimally invasive procedure involves the use of very thin, sterile microneedles attached to a derma pen or derma roller. The device is then gently rolled or stamped over the targeted areas at a consistent pressure and needle depth, creating strategically placed “pricks” or micro-injuries on the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis). 

• These micro-injuries trigger the body’s natural healing mechanisms, encouraging the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential for maintaining the skin’s strength and elasticity. 
• Blood circulation is increased, transporting blood rich in oxygen, nutrients and growth factors to the target area. This nourishes the hair follicles and promotes healing and rejuvenation.
• Topical skincare products, such as serums and moisturisers, are better absorbed through the micro-injuries (microchannels), increasing their efficacy. This is why, during some microneedling therapies, a serum is applied to complement the treatment and improve results. 

When microneedling is done on the scalp, the wound healing process can lead to hair regrowth by regenerating the hair follicles. Microneedling triggers the release of various growth factors and cytokines, which promote the growth of healthy hair, and optimal results are often experienced within 4-6 weeks. 

Benefits of microneedling for hair loss 

Microneedling is recommended for anyone experiencing hair loss, or for those who simply want to achieve thicker and fuller hair. Some benefits of microneedling include:

• Minimal to no downtime — This minimally invasive treatment is non-surgical and generally well-tolerated. You may resume your daily activities right after your 90-minute treatment, making it a convenient treatment. 
• Stronger, thicker hair — Microneedling triggers the release of various growth factors and cytokines, which promote tissue healing and revitalise dormant follicles in your scalp. Over time, this improves hair thickness and density. 
• Stimulates collagen and elastin production — As your body’s natural healing process is triggered, collagen and elastin are produced, which are essential proteins that play a crucial role in the structure and function of the skin and hair follicles. 
• Increases topical product absorption — Microneedling creates microchannels that allow for increased absorption of topical products like creams or serums. This allows topical hair growth treatments to penetrate deeper layers of the scalp and hair follicles, enhancing their effects. 
• Boosts scalp oxygenation — As blood flow to the treated area increases during microneedling, the flow of oxygen and nutrients is also increased. Oxygen and nutrients  are important for follicle health and create healthier conditions for your follicles to thrive. 
• Non-surgical and minimally invasive — Not everyone likes the idea of going under the knife. Microneedling is an incisionless option for those seeking hair restoration without undergoing surgery. 

The microneedling procedure

1. Preparation

Gather Your Supplies

• Microneedling Device: Choose a derma roller (0.5mm to 1.5mm needle length) or a derma pen specifically designed for scalp use.
• Sterilizing Solution: Use 70% isopropyl alcohol to sterilize the device before and after each use.
• Topical Anesthetic (Optional): A numbing cream can be applied to reduce discomfort.
• Hair Growth Serum: Use a serum like minoxidil, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), or a peptide-based solution to enhance results.
• Cleanser: A gentle, non-irritating shampoo to clean the scalp.
• Gloves: Wear disposable gloves to maintain hygiene.
• Clean the Scalp
• Wash your scalp thoroughly with a gentle shampoo to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup.
• Pat your scalp dry with a clean towel.

Sterilize the Device

• Soak the microneedling device (derma roller or derma pen) in 70% isopropyl alcohol for 5-10 minutes to sterilize it.
• Rinse with clean water and let it air dry on a clean paper towel.

2. The Microneedling Process

Apply Numbing Cream (Optional)

• If you have a low pain tolerance, apply a numbing cream to the scalp and leave it on for 20-30 minutes. Wipe it off before starting the procedure.

Start Microneedling

• Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into sections to ensure even coverage of the scalp.
• Roll or Stamp the Device:
• For a derma roller: Gently roll the device over the scalp in vertical, horizontal, and diagonal directions. Apply light pressure—you should feel a slight prickling sensation but no pain.
• For a derma pen: Use a stamping motion, moving the pen systematically across the scalp. Adjust the needle depth (0.5mm to 1.5mm) based on your comfort level and hair loss severity.
• Cover the Entire Scalp: Ensure all areas of thinning or baldness are treated evenly.

Duration

• The entire process should take 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.

3. Post-Treatment Care

Apply Hair Growth Serum

• After microneedling, apply a hair growth serum (e.g., minoxidil, PRP, or peptide-based solution) to the treated areas. The micro-channels created during the procedure will enhance absorption.

Clean the Device

• Rinse the microneedling device with water and soak it in 70% isopropyl alcohol for 5-10 minutes to sterilize it. Let it air dry before storing.

Avoid Irritants

• Avoid using harsh shampoos, styling products, or exposing the scalp to direct sunlight for 24-48 hours.
• Refrain from swimming, saunas, or intense workouts for at least 24 hours to prevent irritation or infection.

Moisturize and Protect

• Use a gentle, hydrating scalp moisturizer to soothe the skin and promote healing.
• If redness or swelling occurs, a cold compress can help alleviate discomfort.

4. Frequency and Results

Treatment Frequency

• Perform microneedling at home every 1-2 weeks, depending on your scalp’s tolerance and the needle length used.
• A full course of treatment usually consists of 6-8 sessions.

Visible Results

• Most users notice improvements after 3-6 sessions, with fuller, thicker hair becoming more apparent over time.
• Maintenance sessions may be recommended to sustain results.

Tips for Safe and Effective Microneedling at Home

• Start with Shorter Needles: If you’re new to microneedling, begin with a 0.5mm needle length and gradually increase as your scalp adapts.
• Avoid Overlapping: Do not go over the same area too many times to prevent irritation.
• Maintain Hygiene: Always sterilize your device before and after use to prevent infections.
• Listen to Your Scalp: If you experience excessive pain, bleeding, or irritation, stop the procedure and consult a dermatologist.

Potential Side Effects

• Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness on the scalp (usually resolves within 24-48 hours).
• Rarely, minor bleeding or bruising may occur.

Combination Therapies

For enhanced results, combine microneedling with:

• Minoxidil: Apply minoxidil after microneedling to boost hair growth.
• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): Use PRP serum for added regenerative benefits.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, reduce stress, and avoid smoking to support hair health.
• Conclusion
• Microneedling at home for hair loss is a safe and effective way to stimulate hair growth when done correctly. By following proper techniques and hygiene practices, you can achieve noticeable improvements in hair thickness and density. However, if you have severe hair loss or underlying medical conditions, consult a dermatologist before starting the procedure.