Microneedling is a treatment in which small needles are used to make punctures in the skin. The use of microneedling for skin rejuvenation has been described in combination with topical agents or other modalities such as radiofrequency.
More recently, microneedling has been described alone and in combination with topical agents and growth factors for the treatment of forms of hair loss including androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata. However, further study of microneedling for these types of hair loss and others is still needed.
Local anesthetic is often administered prior to the procedure to help minimize pain during the procedure. The length of the procedure can vary depending on how big the treatment area is, but it usually lasts less than 20 minutes. Any topical medications or growth factors are then often applied.
Scalp microneedling with the right settings may help different forms of hair loss including androgenetic alopecia (patterned hair loss) and alopecia areata. However, further studies are still needed to further study this and determine the best schedule and parameters for treatments. Here are some ways that microneedling is thought to potentially help certain types of hair loss:
With micro-injury during microneedling, healing and regenerative pathways are activated that may help to strengthen hair.
This micro-injury and promotion of healing and regenerative pathways have also been shown in some cases to promote hair growth and thicken existing hair.
Microneedling can be used in combination with certain topical medications, such as minoxidil, or growth factors to improve the depth of penetration into the scalp and hair follicle.
Scalp microneedling is a relatively quick hair restoration treatment that can be combined with other treatment options. However, it usually requires multiple treatments to see results and often requires maintenance treatments. Here are some potential benefits of this treatment:
Microneedling can boost your skin's collagen levels. Additionally, through micro-injury, it can trigger healing and regeneration pathways that lead to thicker hair, healthier hair, and/or increased hair growth in some individuals.
Microneedling can encourage blood flow and increase the delivery of topical hair growth products to deeper layers of the skin and hair follicle so that they can potentially be more effective in promoting hair growth.
Combining growth factor injections with microneedling can be helpful in some patients. In this process, growth factors are obtained from sources such as an individual’s own blood, injected into the scalp, microneedling performed, and growth factors applied topically (see the video above for more on this combination treatment).
Like any other procedure, there are potential adverse effects and risks of scalp microneedling. Overall, the procedure is well-tolerated; however, it is important to note that often individuals experience redness and tenderness after this procedure. There are also other risks such as infection, scarring, bleeding, increased hair loss or shedding, and others. There are post-treatment recommendations such as sun protection that are important during the healing process. Make sure to discuss aftercare instructions with your performing provider. It is also important to see a doctor or provider to discuss if this procedure is right for you as well as the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives prior to having this treatment performed.
The cost of our scalp microneedling treatment depends on your case. Visit Root Hair Institute for a consultation to see if scalp microneedling may be appropriate for you and for pricing based on your case.
Hair loss and restoration is complex. It often requires adjusting an individual’s regimen to find what works for their type of hair loss and case. Thus, it is important to see someone experienced who can help you weigh all options and decide what treatment is right for you and then see you back and adjust the regimen if needed. Scalp microneedling is one of many treatment options offered at Root Hair Institute (RHI) and advantages of doing scalp microneedling at RHI include the following:
At RHI, our doctors and team use tools such as vibratory devices to distract nerves and localized numbing to minimize pain during scalp microneedling. We care for our patients with compassion. Our staff is dedicated to providing unmatched service focused on your unique needs, comfort, and privacy.
Our doctors first diagnose what type of hair loss you are experiencing. They then will discuss appropriate treatment options for your case including scalp microneedling (if recommended). They take the time to educate you on your options, so that together, you can decide what treatments best fit your goals, priorities, and lifestyle.
RHI offers both growth factor injections and microneedling. Thus, they are able to offer combination growth factor injections and microneedling when appropriate. See video above for more details on this combination therapy.
Our doctors and providers specialize in hair loss. They have extensive knowledge, expertise, training, and experience in numerous treatment modalities for hair loss and hair restoration including microneedling.
Medical Therapies
Hair Restoration Surgery
Beard Restoration Surgery
Eyebrow Restoration Surgery
Scalp Injections
Scalp Microneedling
Low-Level Light Therapy
Scalp Micro-pigmentation
