MDhair
If you struggle with hair loss, desire thicker hair, or are looking to grow a beard, you have probably heard of dermarolling, also known as microneedling.
What is dermarolling?
Dermarolling is a treatment that can be done at home or in-office that uses a dermaroller, a small device covered with tiny needles called microneedles, to stimulate blood flow to the treated areas.
What are the effects of a dermaroller on hair regrowth?
The microneedles of a dermaroller cause micro-wounds to the skin. These wounds trigger a healing process that increases blood flow to boost collagen production and release growth factors to stimulate hair follicle stem cells. Microneedling complements topical hair regrowth treatments by allowing for better absorption of active compounds into the dermis, where hair follicles reside.
Who should use a dermaroller?
If performed correctly, dermarolling is an excellent addition to hair regrowth treatments. It is especially beneficial for those with genetic and age-related hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia. As with any hair growth treatment, it is more effective in the early stages of hair loss than in severe hair loss or total baldness.
Who should not use a dermaroller?
Dermarollers are not recommended for use by people with seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, or other inflammatory scalp conditions, as the penetration from the microneedles can make these conditions worse.
Which kind of dermaroller should I use?
Dermarollers differ in the size of their microneedles. Needle lengths of 0.25mm to 1.5mm are generally safe for hair loss treatment. Exceeding this range can cause bleeding, infection, and even damage to hair follicle roots. Dermarollers with 0.25mm needles are usually used to treat the beard area, as it is more sensitive than the scalp. Dermarollers with longer needles between 0.5mm to 1.5mm are the best for scalp treatments and penetrate deeper into the dermis.
How do I use a dermaroller for hair regrowth?
The best time to use a dermaroller is immediately after a shower. Start with a wet scalp or skin and roll the device front to back, then side to side on the affected areas. Be careful not to apply too much pressure. You can repeat this process in the same areas 4 - 5 times.
What is the best topical treatment to apply after using the dermaroller?
Once you complete the process, apply an active hair treatment solution to the area. The scalp solution should be customized to your gender and the root cause of hair loss. Women with genetic or hormonal-related hair loss can benefit from the FDA-approved Minoxidil 2% hair regrowth solution, or this restore plant-based scalp treatment serum. Optimal results for male hair regrowth can be achieved by dermarolling followed by Minoxidil 5% or the plant-based regrowth scalp serum.
How often should I use my dermaroller for hair regrowth?
This depends on the length of the needles. If you use a shorter 0.5mm needle, twice a week is optimal. As the puncture is deeper, if you use the longer 1mm or 1.5mm microneedles, you can use it 2 - 3 times a month.
What are the side effects of dermarolling?
When it comes to dermarolling, it's important not to overdo it. Excessive dermarolling can cause increased hair shedding due to damage and inflammation. If the micro-wounds do not heal properly, it can cause infection or even permanent scarring.
Which brand of dermaroller should I use?
For growing your beard, look for a dermaroller with a 0.25mm needle. For your scalp, start with a device with a 0.5mm needle like this one. After 6 - 8 weeks, you can increase the length to 1.5mm.
Can I use my microneedling device more than once?
After using the dermaroller, be sure to clean it with rubbing alcohol and let it dry before returning it to its case.
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Minoxidil 5%
Minoxidil 2%
Dermaroller
References:
- Repeated microneedle stimulation induces the enhanced expression of hair-growth-related genes.
- A randomized evaluator blinded study of the effect of micro-needling in androgenetic alopecia: a pilot study.
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