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