Should I apply minoxidil right after microneedling?

Author: Ruthe Waelchi  |  Last update: Monday, June 30, 2025

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]. Here are the main steps that should be followed when combining Minoxidil and derma roller: Clean your scalp well and dry it completely.

How long after microneedling can I apply minoxidil?

If you typically use a topical hair loss product on your scalp, you should wait 24-48 hours after microneedling before applying this product again. And don't worry — the synergistic effect between microneedling and your topical hair loss product will still be achievable.

Should you use minoxidil or microneedling first?

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.

Is it okay to apply minoxidil right after dermarolling?

Women who use derma rollers are often concious about what they apply to their hair post the process. However, applying topical solutions like oil or minoxidil is completely okay after derma rolling. Oiling after using a derma roller ensures your skin absorbs around 80% of the nutrients in the oil.

What should I put on my scalp after microneedling?

Moisturizers to Use: Use lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers or serums designed for sensitive or healing scalps. Your hair clinic may provide or recommend products specifically formulated for post-microneedling care.

How Long to Wait Before Applying Minoxidil After Dermarolling?

How do I get the best results after microneedling?

Keep your skin clean and hydrated

After microneedling, your skin will be more sensitive than usual, so it's important to keep it clean and moisturized to avoid any irritation or infection. Use a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water to wash your face twice a day, avoiding any harsh scrubs or exfoliants.

How do you use microneedling and minoxidil together?

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.

When to apply minoxidil?

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.

How to increase minoxidil effectiveness?

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.

Does microneedling increase minoxidil absorption?

Improved absorption of topical treatments: Microneedling creates tiny channels in the scalp that can enhance the absorption of topical treatments, such as either form of minoxidil or other hair growth-promoting products, which can improve the effectiveness of these treatments.

Does minoxidil affect facial hair?

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.

What is the depth of microneedling with minoxidil?

At depths of 0.6mm to 2.5mm, microneedling is suspected to increase both topical absorption (with minoxidil) and hair follicle proliferation (as a standalone treatment).

How long to wait after microneedling?

It is vital that you let your skin breathe for 24 hours after the treatment. The skin channels are open, and applying makeup can penetrate the pores causing further irritation. You should wait 24 to 48 hours before using makeup, leaving enough time for the skin to recover.

Should you apply minoxidil right after a shower?

You may apply 5% Minoxidil immediately after showering in the morning on a dry scalp, but allow it to absorb for at least two to three hours before showering again, swimming or participating in heavy physical activity that would cause you to sweat profusely.

When not to use minoxidil?

Minoxidil should not be used in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to the drug or its constituents, including propylene glycol. The utilization of minoxidil is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

When to apply minoxidil after dermaroller?

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.

What are the downsides of 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.

Can I use minoxidil and tretinoin at the same time?

Combining tretinoin with minoxidil improves minoxidil's absorption into the skin, increasing its effectiveness.

Which minoxidil is best for hair regrowth?

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%.

How long does minoxidil and microneedling take to work?

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.

How to increase the effectiveness of microneedling?

Following a consistent skincare regimen can help to maintain the results of microneedling. A skincare regimen that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing regularly can help to improve the texture and tone of the skin, as well as reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

How to speed up healing after microneedling?

Here are five essential tips to help speed up your microneedling healing process and get you back to your glowing self in no time.
  1. Keep Your Skin Hydrated. ...
  2. Protect Your Skin From the Sun. ...
  3. Follow a Gentle Skincare Routine. ...
  4. Avoid Strenuous Activities. ...
  5. Nourish Your Body From Within.

What is the best thing to put on your face after microneedling?

What to Put On Your Skin After Microneedling
  • Avoid harsh scrubs or products.
  • Only clean your skin with a professionally formulated cleanser.
  • Apply targeted skincare serums that will penetrate deeply into your skin.
  • Keep your skin well-hydrated with a gentle moisturizer.
  • Apply medical-grade sun protection.

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