Try using a shorter needle length of derma roller (0.2 mm-0.5 mm) 2-3 times a week with minoxidil to enhance its absorption. And use a longer length of derma roller (0.5 mm-1 mm) once a fortnight to promote better regeneration of the hair follicles.
Fortunately, science reveals that the answer is yes and that using Minoxidil and a derma roller together is indeed more effective than monotherapy with either one.
Which derma roller size should you use? The derma roller size that is best for hair growth is usually between 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. A needle length of 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm is usually recommended for at-home use, and longer needles may require professional guidance to avoid injury.
A 0.5 mm derma roller has shorter needles, making it more gentle and suitable for beginners or those with sensitive scalps, while a 1.0 mm derma roller has longer needles that can create deeper micro-injuries, potentially leading to more significant hair growth stimulation but also carrying a higher risk of discomfort ...
Dr. Mohta advises you to use your derma roller once a week in the beginning and gradually increase the frequency to two or three times per week. Limit the rolling time to a maximum of 2 minutes during each session. If you are using a derma roller over 0.5mm in length, don't use it more than once every week.
However, it's crucial to follow the correct timing and procedures to avoid irritation or unwanted side effects. Most experts recommend waiting for at least 12-24 hours after dermarolling before applying minoxidil to allow your skin time to heal and reduce the risk of irritation.
"Dermarolling/microneedling the scalp before applying minoxidil creates microtrauma that activates the body's natural healing pathways, increases blood flow, and creates microchannels in the skin that may enhance the absorption of minoxidil or other topically applied products," says Dr. Bauman.
The most effective way to use minoxidil with a dermaroller is to first roll the dermaroller on the scalp, and then apply minoxidil to the area. The use of minoxidil plus dermaroller causes your skin to lose moisture and has a drying effect on your scalp due to its alcohol content.
Roll gently
Avoid pressing too hard, as this can cause discomfort or damage. You should feel a mild tingling sensation but not significant pain.
However, as a general rule, he says that when using a derma roller for your beard,choose a needle length ranging from 0.25mm to 0.5mm. These shorter needle lengths are suitable for facial use and can help stimulate hair growth and improve beard health without causing excessive discomfort or skin damage.
Patients can apply a 5% aerosol formulation of topical minoxidil directly onto their scalp at a one-half capful dose. The medication should be used twice daily by male patients and once daily by female patients. Women should apply 1 mL of the 2% topical minoxidil solution to their scalp twice daily.
In the case of Minoxidil, you're advised to use 1ml of solution (or ½ a cap-full of foam) twice a day. Therefore, using Minoxidil three times a week instead will not get you the results that you require. This is because reducing the frequency of Minoxidil application results in delivering a reduced dosage of the drug.
For hair loss treatment, clinical research largely supports using derma rollers between 0.5-1mm. Smaller 0.25-0.3mm needles do not puncture deeply enough to generate follicle-stimulating wound healing. Larger 1.5-2.0mm rollers risk excessive skin injury and should be avoided for at-home use.
Topical minoxidil 2% and 5% are both approved for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Higher concentration products like minoxidil 10% are not approved for the treatment of hair loss. Minoxidil 5% is thought to yield superior results compared to both minoxidil 2% and minoxidil 10%.
Do not shampoo your hair for 4 hours after applying minoxidil. Immediately after using this medicine, wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them. Do not use a hairdryer to dry the scalp after you apply minoxidil solution. Blowing with a hairdryer on the scalp may make the treatment less effective.
Professional microneedling for hair growth
The procedure typically involves cleansing the scalp, applying a numbing agent, and then using the micro-needling device to treat the scalp. Minoxidil can afterwards be applied to the target area. The skin micro-punctures enhance minoxidil absorption and effectiveness.
However, other sources may suggest applying the topical Minoxidil after 20-30 minutes after dermarolling. So, try to wait at least 30 minutes after dermarolling to apply your topical hair loss treatment, but waiting to apply until 24 hours after seems to still be beneficial as well.
The 1mm derma roller should be used 1 time per month for anti-aging, acne scars, sagging skin and pigmentation. If using it to stimulate hair growth or beard growth, you can use it every 2 weeks, but you will need to take a 1-month break every 3 sessions.
Aloe vera gel is a natural soothing agent that can help to calm and repair the scalp after Dermarolling. It's rich in vitamins and minerals that can help to promote healthy hair growth and reduce inflammation.
Medium Size Derma Rollers (0.5mm to 1.0mm)
Medium size derma rollers, with needle lengths from 0.5mm to 1.0mm, are particularly effective for stimulating hair growth.
Types of derma rollers
Needle Length: 0.25mm - 0.5mm: Often used for enhancing product absorption and mild collagen induction. 0.5mm - 1.0mm: Commonly used for general skin rejuvenation and hair growth stimulation. 1.0mm - 1.5mm: Used for treating deeper skin issues and more aggressive hair growth stimulation.
1 mm can be used every 4 weeks on the same skin area. 1.5mm can be used every 5 weeks on the same skin area.