What do you put on your scalp before microneedling?

Author: Prof. Ladarius Bernhard MD  |  Last update: Tuesday, June 3, 2025

The Microneedling on the Scalp Process In this treatment, you can also apply either hyaluronic acid or hair restoration serum to enhance the effectiveness of the microneedling treatment. To start the microneedling process, you can move the microneedling device across your scalp in a grid-like pattern for the procedure.

How to prep scalp for microneedling?

Wash your scalp and hair with a mild shampoo to remove oils and dirt. Pat your hair and scalp dry with a clean towel. If you have hair longer than a few inches, use a comb to divide your scalp into sections for easier microneedling.

What product to use before microneedling?

The three most commonly used basic serums for microneedling are vitamin C serum, Hyaluronic acid, and platelet-rich plasma or PRP. PRP is a portion your own blood and is best used for hair restoration. Vitamin C serums can be helpful for color correction or evening skin pigment.

How do you numb your scalp for microneedling?

Apply numbing cream all over the area that will be treated. Leave on for 15-30 minutes, depending on the numbing agent used. Make sure to get the numbing on the scalp and not in the hair. Part the hair and use Q-tips for easier application.

Do you put anything on your skin before microneedling?

Keep your skin clean before needling, avoid using lotion or make-up, and clean your face in-office if feasible. Inform your doctor of any adjustments you've made that may have an impact on microneedling. 45 minutes before the surgery, your doctor will apply topical anesthetics to your face.

10 Do's And Don'ts Of Using The Dermaroller For Hair Loss And Growth

What serum should I use before microneedling?

Use serums such as ​​Hyaluronic Acid serum, peptides, ceramides, or EGF for microneedling. For example, Femvy Hyaluronic Acid serum is loved by many Dr. Pen's users, due to the formula and its high molecular weight. Do not use a serum with active ingredients for microneedling, such as vitamin c serum.

How to make microneedling more effective?

We'll tell you how you can get the best results from this collagen-boosting therapy.
  1. Be Honest With Your Medical Provider. ...
  2. Go To Your Treatment With Bare Skin. ...
  3. Avoid Other Treatment Procedures or Topical Products Before Microneedling. ...
  4. Do Not Take Anti-Inflammatory and Blood Thinning Medications Before The Procedure.

What is the best numbing cream for microneedling hair?

Lidocaine, Prilocaine & Epinephrine Numbing Cream

This combination is widely regarded as the best numbing cream for microneedling, laser treatments, and other cosmetic procedures like injectables. Numbing lasts up to 3-4 hours after removal.

How painful is scalp microneedling?

Is the procedure painful? There may be some minor discomfort from scalp microneedling due to the depth of the needles used. A topical anaesthetic is used prior to treatment which significantly helps to minimise any pain. It may also be useful to take a paracetamol an hour or two prior to your treatment.

How to prep skin for microneedling at home?

How to microneedle at home. Always prep your skin by double cleansing, “You want immaculately clean skin,” says Fiona. “With no SPF, dirt or makeup lingering behind.” You also need to make sure that your skin is dry and that you haven't used any retinoids or exfoliants at least 24 hours before microneedling.

Do you use numbing cream before microneedling?

Step 1: Numbing cream

Some clients may opt for numbing cream, and some may not. It helps to lessen the stinging sensation to nothing more than just a vibration on the skin. If you'd like numbing cream, we help you into a headband to restrain any wayward hair and then apply it your face.

What is the average price of a microneedling session?

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.

Can I microneedle without serum?

If you were to drag the pen along your skin without a serum in place, your skin would be far more prone to irritation and damage from the pen pushing too hard into your skin unevenly. But with serum, the pen can glide easily.

Should I put anything 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.

Does rosemary oil promote hair growth?

The overall result of the study provided evidence that rosemary oil may be effective for certain hair growth. A study from 2022 also found evidence that rosemary oil can aid in hair growth. The study stated that rosemary oil had the same effect as Minoxidil, a hair growth medication, after 6 weeks of use.

Should you microneedle your hair wet or dry?

For optimal results and safety, it is generally recommended to use a derma roller on dry hair. Applying the derma roller to dry hair ensures better absorption and penetration of the needles into the scalp, allowing for more efficient stimulation of the hair follicles and increased blood flow to the area.

How many minutes should I microneedle my scalp?

The Microneedling on the Scalp Process

A session should last 10-20 minutes, depending on the scalp area you're treating. In this treatment, you can also apply either hyaluronic acid or hair restoration serum to enhance the effectiveness of the microneedling treatment.

What are the dangers of microneedling scalp?

If not done properly, microneedling can destroy your scalp and hair. It can lead to anything from skin damage to uneven hair growth. For a safe, effective treatment, it is important to find licensed, trained professionals who adhere to proper safety protocols for your microneedling treatment.

How deep should microneedling be for head?

Suitable depth varies depending on the site.
  • Forehead: 0.25 to 1.0 mm.
  • Around the eyes: 0.25 to 1.0 mm.
  • Cheek: 0.25 to 1.5 mm, up to 2.5 mm possible.
  • Nose: 0.25-0.5 mm, up to 2.5 mm possible.
  • Jaw: 0.25 to 1.0 mm, up to 2.5 mm possible.
  • Body: 0.25 to 3.0 mm.

What is the strongest over the counter numbing cream?

Fast Acting & Long Lasting: 5% Lidocaine is the strongest over the counter formulation topical numbing cream on the market that starts working in 2-3 minutes after application and lasts for an hour from its peak.

How bad does microneedling hurt without numbing cream?

Although each person experiences pain differently, most compare microneedling to the feeling of an electric toothbrush being passed over your skin. Others feel pressure or as if you're scratching an itch.

What serum to use with a microneedling pen?

Hyaluronic acid serums are the best and most commonly used type for microneedling because of their hydrating properties. Other great alternatives include peptides, ceramides, and EGF. Just make sure to avoid retinoids, Vitamin C, and other serums that contain acids (AHA, BHA, and lactic acid).

How to clean scalp before microneedling?

To ensure a clean scalp and roller, jump in the shower and give yourself a good lather, rinse and repeat. You might also find that using an exfoliating shampoo brush or treating your head to a little in-shower scalp massage can help lift away excess dirt and debris, including dead skin cells on the scalp's surface.

What is the best numbing cream for microneedling?

Zensa Numbing Cream - Extra Strength 5% Lidocaine for Painless Tattoo, Microneedling, Piercing, Microblading, Laser & Waxing Procedures - Best Medical Grade Topical Anesthetic for Maximum Pain Relief.

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