Quick question about microneedling

[Salazar]

Hi.

A while back I tried microneedling (using a 0.5 mm dermaroller.) I did it once a week for about a year but, seeing no improvement, I eventually stopped. However, having recently read somewhere that, in order to be effective, one needs to draw pinpricks of blood (something I never did as I worried about causing permanent damage) I'm wondering if it isn't worth another go. Does anyone know anything about this? Does microneedling only work if one draws blood? Thanks.

 

[Salazar]

Sorry for being persistent, but I'd really appreciate hearing from someone who can answer my question. Thanks.

 

[Hemingway]

There are studies showing it works but most research is in combination therapy with minoxidil etc and the research quality is not nearly as rock solid as finasteride etc at this stage.

If you look at this systematic review, the mean length of needles used is close to 1.5cm (for the male pattern hair loss part of study, not the other types e.g. areata) with hair density increases; but considerably more when it's combined with minoxidil use. Lots of anecdotal microneedling success stories on reddit etc also.

Can't link the review directly - search

Microneedling and Its Use in Hair Loss Disorders: A Systematic Review - English et al 2022​

 

[Salazar]

Thank you, Hemingway. I appreciate your reply -- most informative. I'll check out the study. All the best.