Microneedling

What does the research say?

Research shows that microneedling can significantly improve hair growth, especially in cases of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Studies have demonstrated increased hair counts, hair diameter, and hair density when microneedling is used alone or in combination with other therapies. For example, one study found that microneedling combined with PRP resulted in a 92.30% hair coverage improvement in animal models, compared to 32.84% in untreated models [13] . While more research is needed to establish standardized protocols, current evidence suggests that microneedling is a promising treatment for hair loss [8] [10] [11] .

Erythema (redness)

Erythema, or redness, is a common and expected side effect that usually resolves within a few hours to days [14] .

Pain

Pain during or after the procedure is mild and can be managed with topical anesthetics [14] .

Edema (swelling)

Edema, or swelling, is temporary and typically subsides within a day or two [14] .

Temporary skin irritation

Temporary skin irritation, such as dryness or sensitivity, is common but resolves quickly [14] .

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a potential side effect, especially in individuals with darker skin tones, but it is usually temporary [14] .

Tram-track scarring

Tram-track scarring is rare and occurs when the needles are pressed too deeply into the skin [14] .

Milia

Milia, or small white bumps, can form as a result of blocked pores but are treatable [14] .

Pruritus (itching)

Pruritus, or itching, is a mild side effect that usually resolves on its own [14] .

Pustules

Pustules, or small pus-filled bumps, may occur but are rare and treatable [14] .

Crusting

Crusting or scabbing can occur as the skin heals but is temporary [14] .

Infection (rare)

Infection is extremely rare but can occur if proper sterilization protocols are not followed [14] .

[1] Radiofrequency Microneedling: A Comprehensive and Critical Review

This review evaluates the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) in dermatologic conditions, though its comparison with other treatments remains unclear.

[2] Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Current Applications in Dermatology

PRP is an autologous serum with high platelet and growth factor concentrations, used in dermatology for hair restoration, skin rejuvenation, and more. Combining PRP with microneedling enhances results.

[3] Female pattern hair loss: A comprehensive review

This review discusses female pattern hair loss, its systemic associations, and treatments like microneedling, low-level laser therapy, and autologous fat transfer.

[4] Microneedling for Hair Loss

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure used for various dermatological conditions, including androgenetic alopecia (AGA).

[5] Microneedling and Its Use in Hair Loss Disorders: A Systematic Review

This review highlights the benefits of combining PRP with microneedling for hair loss, showing improved hair counts and diameters.

[6] Microneedling: A Comprehensive Review

Microneedling stimulates growth factors and collagen production, making it a widely used treatment in dermatology.

[7] Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: Current Guidance and Unmet Needs

This review discusses PRP's role in increasing hair growth, density, and thickness, with mild side effects like scalp sensitivity.

[8] Microneedling for the treatment of hair loss?

Microneedling promotes hair growth by enhancing the penetration of hair growth treatments like minoxidil and PRP.

[9] Management of androgenic alopecia: a systematic review of the literature

This systematic review highlights the efficacy of various treatments for androgenic alopecia, including microneedling and PRP.

[10] Microneedling in androgenetic alopecia; comparing two different depths of microneedles

This study explores the therapeutic effects of microneedling in AGA, though the optimal protocol remains unclear.

[11] Micro needling: A novel therapeutic approach for androgenetic alopecia, A Review of Literature

This review summarizes the use of microneedling for AGA, showing promise in increasing hair density and thickness.

[12] Microneedling: Where do we stand now? A systematic review of the literature

This review discusses microneedling as a non-ablative treatment for aesthetic concerns, including hair loss.

[13] Curcumin-zinc framework encapsulated microneedle patch for promoting hair growth

This study demonstrates that microneedling with ZnMOF-MN patches promotes hair growth by reversing hostile microenvironments under hair loss conditions.

[14] A Systematic Review Examining the Potential Adverse Effects of Microneedling

This review examines the side effects of microneedling, including erythema, pain, and rare complications like infection.