Does Microneedling Work for Hair Loss? Experts Explain

In the ever-evolving world of hair care and restoration, you may or may not have heard about microneedling for hair loss. Promising to stimulate hair growth and combat thinning hair, the technique has received a lot of attention. But is it truly a solution for those seeking to restore their crowning glory? Dermatologists and hair experts share their thoughts on microneedling for hair loss—from what it is and if it works to alternatives you can try for hair regrowth.

What Is Microneedling? 

Microneedling, scientifically known as percutaneous collagen induction therapy, involves using a handheld device with tiny needles to create micro-punctures in the skin. The process is meant to induce controlled micro-injuries, triggering the skin's natural healing response.

According to dermatologist Jodi LoGerfo, MD, “microneedling is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating acne scarring, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and stretch marks, and has also been explored for its potential role in aiding hair growth.”

The effectiveness of microneedling on the scalp to help with hair loss and promote hair regrowth depends on a few factors and is not widely researched. “To me, the outcomes related to microneedling as a treatment for hair loss seem limited,” LoGerfo says.

“The effectiveness of microneedling for hair loss likely depends on the underlying cause of the hair loss and individual factors such as the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health," adds trichologist Isfahan Chambers-Harris, Ph.D.

Microneedling With Minoxidil

There are only two drugs approved by the FDA for treating hair loss—topical minoxidil and oral finasteride, though the latter is not approved for use in people assigned female at birth. However, used in conjunction with topical minoxidil, microneedling shows promise.

By creating microchannels in the scalp, microneedling helps enhance the absorption of topical minoxidil, potentially increasing its efficacy. Additionally, the micro-injuries induced by the needles may trigger a wound-healing response, leading to increased blood flow and collagen production around hair follicles, promoting thicker and faster hair regrowth.

Research has shown that a scalp treated with the combined therapy of microneedling and minoxidil showed greater results than one treated with minoxidil alone. “But this is mostly hypothesized—there are no great studies,” cautions LoGerfo.

Microneedling Procedure

For microneedling alone, a topical anesthetic is first applied for 30 to 60 minutes to numb the area. The anesthetic is then removed, and microneedling is performed using a pen or roller with needles on it. Multiple passes may be completed as required.

When combining microneedling with topical minoxidil, the same process is followed, but after the initial application of topical medication, additional passes of microneedling are performed to enhance absorption through the microchannels.

Treatment Length and Frequency

A microneedling session is relatively quick. You can expect to be in the provider's office for about an hour—the longest part is waiting for the anesthetic to kick in. Slight irritation is normal and should ease within a few hours.

The amount of microneedling treatments you receive depends on the root cause of your hair loss and its severity. Some people undergo monthly treatments, while others have weekly sessions. Generally, most folks are given at least three treatments and up to 12 within a few months.

Alternatives to Microneedling

Microneedling is not the only solution for hair loss. Other treatments, procedures, and hair products can aid hair growth.

PRP Treatment

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was originally a treatment that promoted healing in injured joints. Since then, it has emerged as a treatment to help regrow hair and improve the quality of existing hair. “There are virtually no side effects from PRP, except for a mild feeling of pressure at the injection site,” LoGerfo says.

During a PRP treatment, your blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and plasma. Then, the plasma is injected into the scalp where hair loss has occurred to repair blood vessels, promote cell growth and wound healing, and stimulate collagen production.

“We began using PRP in dermatology after researchers found that high concentrations of platelets in plasma cells help promote hair growth by prolonging the growing phase of the hair cycle,” explains LoGerfo. 

Chambers-Harris confirms that PRP has shown potential in promoting hair growth and increasing hair density in treated areas. “Injected monthly into the scalp, PRP therapy targets hair loss by activating the wound healing response, prolonging the hair growth phase, and ultimately leading to visible improvements in hair density after three to six months,” says Chambers-Harris. 

Hair Serums

According to Chambers-Harris, hair growth serums can also help promote the healthy growth of new hair. “But always consult with your dermatologist or hair loss specialist to understand the root cause of your hair loss before attempting to treat it,” Chambers-Harris advises.