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].
After 12 weeks of treatment, the patients treated with minoxidil and microneedling showed significantly more hair growth. Another 2018 study looked at the effects of microneedling and minoxidil as treatments for hair loss in 68 men.
Key Takeaways:
Most users begin to see the first signs of improvement around 8 weeks with consistent minoxidil use. Maximum results typically appear between 4-6 months of regular treatment.
All subjects of the “microneedling plus topical minoxidil” group showed an increase in target area hair count over 12 weeks, whereas 7 (24.1%) patients in the “minoxidil alone” group did not show any increase in hair count.
In the days and weeks after microneedling, you might notice that your skin burns or feels tight. Some people also have dry, flaking skin that improves with moisturizer. Most people need multiple microneedling treatments, usually about 3 weeks to 8 weeks apart. It can take 3 months to 6 months to see results.
Skin that is pink and a bit sandy-looking is common for some clients in days 2 – 4 after the treatment. Just like any time you're kick-starting cell turnover with a treatment or skin exfoliation, your skin will be sensitive to UV rays.
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.
Pair minoxidil with retinol
And this is done by coming into contact with an enzyme called sulfotransferase on the scalp — but if levels of the enzyme are low, then minoxidil will not be effective. Applying tretinoin can enhance this conversion and improve minoxidil absorption.
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.
Early stages of treatment
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.
Topical Minoxidil starts to work after one application, but it takes longer than this to see a visible impact on your hair. You won't see initial results until approximately two months after you start using it [1]. You're likely to see the best results after four to six months of treatment.
Do celebs use Minoxidil after their hair transplant? Yes, celebs are also recommended Minoxidil after the hair transplant surgery. Trichologists always advise applying Minoxidil after a hair transplant. Minoxidil puts a stop to future hair loss, augments good hair growth and preserves the existing hair.
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].
Use the same concentration of minoxidil, but use more of it... or use it more often. For some patients, using more minoxidil allows more to get into the scalp. This is especially true for males using minoxidil and may be true for some women as well.
The FDA has approved minoxidil (Rogaine), available over the counter, as a hair loss treatment for both men and women. It helps thicken hair follicles and promotes hair lengthening. It comes in a liquid or foam that's applied to the scalp. "If you have a lot of hair, it may be easier to apply the liquid form.
Avoid transferring the medicine while wet to other parts of the body. This can occur if the medicine gets on your pillowcase or bed linens or if your hands are not washed after applying minoxidil.
Research shows that while 5mg of finasteride is more effective than 5mg of oral minoxidil, the latter can be more effective than an oral dose of 1mg finasteride [6]. Most finasteride patients are prescribed 1mg a day.
Be consistent with your application. As is the case with any type of medication, you need to be consistent and routine with your application of Minoxidil. You are required to apply 1ml of Minoxidil solution to the areas of your scalp affected by male pattern hair loss, and you need to do this twice a day.
The most common side effects of topical minoxidil application are redness and irritation of the skin. Rarely, patients have reported headaches, palpitations, and dizziness. Oral minoxidil side effects include palpitations, dizziness, low blood pressure, chest pain, headaches, and swelling of the legs.
Some medical therapies, like minoxidil, should not be applied immediately after microneedling due to the alcohol concentration in the product, which can cause a burning sensation. It is often advisable to wait until the following day to apply minoxidil.
The cost of microneedling is an investment of both time and money. Treatments are usually every four weeks and, on average, 5 treatments are required. After the series is complete, maintenance is suggested to maintain and continue to promote hair growth and scalp health.
Why Do I Look Older After Microneedling? You might look older after microneedling because your skin is temporarily inflamed and shedding older layers.
The average cost of microneedling in the US is about $640 per session, according to over 300 patient experiences on RealSelf. This can vary between $300 to $700, however, depending on: Your location: Prices may be higher in major cities or upscale clinics.