If someone who’s struggling with hair loss or thinning, you’ve probably heard of microneedling as a potential solution. This innovative treatment involves puncturing the skin with tiny needles to stimulate collagen production and cell regeneration.
While it’s primarily used as a cosmetic procedure to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, some experts believe that microneedling could also have benefits for hair growth. But does it really work? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the science behind microneedling and hair follicles to help you understand whether this treatment is worth trying if you’re looking to restore your hair.
How microneedling works on the skin
Before diving deep into how micro needling affects hair follicles, let’s first understand how it works on the skin. Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, involves the use of a device that contains tiny needles.
These needles puncture the skin and create micro-injuries that trigger the body’s natural healing process, stimulating collagen and elastin production. This leads to a reduction in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars, and an improvement in overall skin texture.
Microneedling can be performed on various parts of the body, including the scalp, to potentially improve hair growth. The idea is that by creating micro-injuries on the scalp, it could stimulate the hair follicles and promote hair growth. However, the effectiveness of micro needling for hair growth is still up for debate.
Understanding hair follicles
To understand how micro needling could potentially affect hair follicles, it’s important to understand what they are and how they function. Hair follicles are small, dynamic organs located within the skin that are responsible for hair growth. Each hair follicle contains a papilla, which supplies nutrients and oxygen to the hair, and stem cells, which are responsible for generating new hair growth.
The growth cycle of hair follicles consists of three phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. During the anagen phase, the hair follicle is actively growing and developing. During the catagen phase, the hair follicle begins to shrink and detach from the papilla.
During the telogen phase, the hair follicle is at rest and no longer growing. After the telogen phase, the hair falls out, and the cycle starts again.
Studies on microneedling and hair growth
Several studies have been conducted on the use of microneedling for hair growth, with varying results. One study published in the International Journal of Trichology found that micro needling, combined with topical minoxidil, was more effective in promoting hair growth than minoxidil alone in people with androgenetic alopecia.
Another study published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery found that micro needling was effective in reducing hair loss and promoting hair growth in people with androgenetic alopecia.
However, not all studies have found microneedling to be effective for hair growth. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that micro needling with or without minoxidil was not effective in promoting hair growth in people with androgenetic alopecia.
Benefits of microneedling for hair follicles
While the evidence on the effectiveness of microneedling for hair growth is mixed, there are several potential benefits of micro needling for hair follicles. One of the main benefits is that it could potentially stimulate the production of growth factors and cytokines, which are essential for hair growth. Adding, microneedling could improve blood circulation to the scalp, which could also promote hair growth.
Another benefit of micro needling for hair follicles is that it could potentially improve the absorption of topical hair growth treatments, such as minoxidil. By creating micro channels in the scalp, it could allow for better penetration of these treatments, potentially increasing their effectiveness.
Microneedling for hair loss
Microneedling could potentially be beneficial for people experiencing hair loss, particularly those with androgenetic alopecia. Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, is a common form of hair loss that affects both men and women. It’s caused by a combination of genetics, hormones, and age, and typically results in hair thinning and receding hairline.
While there’s no cure for androgenetic alopecia, there are several treatments available to slow down hair loss and potentially promote hair growth. These include topical minoxidil, oral finasteride, and hair transplant surgery. Microneedling could potentially be used in combination with these treatments to enhance their effectiveness.
Microneedling for hair growth
Microneedling could also potentially be used as a standalone treatment for people looking to promote hair growth. However, it’s important to note that the evidence on the effectiveness of micro needling for hair growth is still limited. More research is needed to determine the optimal technique, depth, and frequency of micro needling for hair growth.
Additionally, micro needling for hair growth is not a quick fix. It typically takes several sessions over a period of months to see results. Results may also vary depending on the individual’s age, gender, and hair type.
Risks and considerations when using microneedling for hair
While microneedling is generally considered safe, there are some risks and considerations to keep in mind when using it for hair growth. One of the main risks is infection. If the device used for microneedling is not properly sterilized, it could lead to an infection in the scalp. Additionally, if the microneedling is performed too aggressively, it could cause scarring and further hair loss.
It’s also important to consider the cost and time commitment of microneedling for hair growth. It typically requires several sessions over a period of months, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Microneedling vs. other hair growth treatments
There are several other hair growth treatments available besides micro needling. These include topical minoxidil, oral finasteride, hair transplant surgery, and low-level laser therapy. Each treatment has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the optimal treatment will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, micro needling could potentially be a beneficial treatment for people experiencing hair loss or thinning, particularly those with androgenetic alopecia. While the evidence on its effectiveness for hair growth is mixed, there are several potential benefits of microneedling hair follicles, including the stimulation of growth factors and improved absorption of topical hair growth treatments.
However, it’s important to consider the risks and time commitment involved with microneedling, as well as other hair growth treatments available. It’s always best to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any hair growth treatment to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.