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.
Topical Minoxidil should only be used on the scalp 24 hours after the micro-needling session, in order to avoid adverse side effects, such as scalp irritation [15][10][16].
Men may use the 5% minoxidil foam twice a day while women should only apply once a day. Applying minoxidil at least two hours before bedtime allows the scalp to dry fully, which can help prevent minoxidil from being spread to another part of your body as you sleep.
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. Allow the minoxidil to completely dry for 2 to 4 hours after applying it, including before going to bed.
There was no significant adverse effect in both Microneedling and Minoxidil group. Initiation of new hair growth was noticeable by around 6 weeks in Microneedling group and by 10 weeks in Minoxidil group. Rapid growth in the existing hair was seen at week 1 in the Microneedling group than Minoxidil group [Figure 8].
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.
Dhurat et al. [3] observed more than 50% improvement in 41 (82%) patients of microneedling group versus only 2 (4.5%) in the minoxidil group on patient self-assessment of hair growth at week 12, whereas only 4 (12.9%) of our patients in the combination treatment group reported 50% improvement.
"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.
Within 2-4 months, hair shedding starts to decrease as the medication begins working to grow new hair. Some people may also experience minor scalp irritation like flaking, redness or itching when beginning Minoxidil treatment. Using the foam version instead of the liquid solution can help.
Leaving overnight is not a problem. What happens if minoxidil touches the face? It can cause hair growth in these areas. Therefore, women should not touch their face after applying topical minoxidil.
Minoxidil has other effects that could be bothersome for some patients. These include increased hair growth, weight gain, fast heartbeat, and chest pain. Before you take this medicine, be sure that you have discussed the use of it with your doctor.
Starting with the first section, either roll your dermaroller vertically over your scalp, continuing to apply mild pressure, or glide your dermapen over the section of skin. Roll or glide horizontally, then diagonally in both directions as well, creating a criss-cross pattern.
In a 2020 study, participants applied 5% minoxidil twice daily and microneedled once every two weeks with either a 0.6mm or 1.2mm needle length roller for 12 weeks. They found that microneedling with either length was more effective than 5% minoxidil twice daily by itself.
Minoxidil 5% is currently thought to be the most effective FDA-approved minoxidil product for hair loss. However, higher concentration products like minoxidil 10% are sometimes tested with the idea that they may be more effective hair loss treatments.
Does Minoxidil make you gain weight? Minoxidil has some side effects like other medications. It may cause weight gain due to water retention in the body. Doctors prescribe other medicines along with oral Minoxidil (for hypertension) to prevent water retention.
Ketoconazole has antifungal and anti-androgen properties and can also reverse baldness. Some treatments for male pattern baldness include a combination of minoxidil and ketoconazole. Ketoconazole shampoo is among the best shampoos to use with minoxidil.
Avoid exposure to fire or flames, and do not smoke during and immediately after applying topical minoxidil. HEART PROBLEMS: Topical minoxidil is less likely to affect the heart than oral minoxidil. You should still check with your doctor before using topical minoxidil if you have a history of heart disease.
Take it alongside Finasteride
A Chinese study concluded that combining Finasteride and Minoxidil is the best course of treatment for hair loss, particularly when compared to using the medications in isolation.
Problems may arise if you over-use on your minoxidil, particularly if you do not wash your hair very often. This can cause a build-up of residue on the scalp which may lead to irritation and dryness.
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.
Most dermatologists recommend a series of four to six microneedling sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart, for optimal results. However, the number of sessions you'll need will ultimately depend on your individual goals and skin condition.
The randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled study showcased minoxidil's ability to enhance facial hair count in a cohort of 48 men aged 20–60. Application of 0.5 mL of 3% minoxidil liquid solution twice daily led to a statistically significant increase in hair count within the 16-week trial.