Hair microneedling to combat hair loss

Hair microneedling is a technique that assists in the treatment of hair loss caused by some types of alopecia, such as androgenetic also known as baldness. The procedure must be performed by a trichologist or hair therapist, who will evaluate each scalp and indicate the appropriate protocol. In this matter, the doctor Thalita Rodrigues explains what the treatment is and how it works. Check out!

What is hair microneedling

According to trichologist Thalita Rodrigues, “capillary microneedling is a technique in which micropunctures (microperforations) are performed on the scalp, causing a controlled local inflammatory process, allowing the release of growth factors and the stimulation of collagen and elastin synthesis. In addition, another important function of microneedling is to enhance the absorption of actives in the microneedle area”.

The treatment is widely used in cases of hair loss, especially for androgenetic alopecia. Among its main benefits are the reestablishment of the hair growth cycle, improvement of the density and increase of the thickness of the wires, preventing hair loss, helping in the development of new roots and reducing scalp flaws.

When capillary microneedling is indicated

Thalita Rodrigues explains that capillary microneedling is indicated as a supporting treatment in some cases. “Androgenetic alopecia is the main indication, but, of course, always evaluating in advance all the current conditions of the patient”.

Still in the words of the doctor, “in other cases of alopecia, such as in localized areata, we also apply the technique, making repellency possible. In cases of scarring alopecia (such as Lichen Planus Pilaris, Discoid Lupus Erythematosus, among others), whose main characteristic is the presence of an intense inflammatory process, we do not recommend the protocol, precisely because of the exacerbation of inflammation”.

How hair microneedling works

According to trichologist Thalita, microneedling is a technique that stimulates the production of collagen, elastin and, above all, the increase in the production of fibroblasts, the cell responsible for the growth of wires. “When performing the procedure, a controlled local inflammatory process begins, complying with the safety and effectiveness standards of the technique.

As the specialist explains, “the loss of skin integrity triggers the release of cytokines, vasodilation and migration of keratinocytes in order to restore the epidermal damage. There is also the release of growth factors and fibroblast proliferation, increased synthesis of collagen and local elastin.” In other words, the small wound caused on the scalp causes the release of cells and substances that stimulate hair growth in order to regenerate the wound.

To perform the procedure, “we use a roller (manual device) that has numerous fine needles or automatic devices. It is important to point out that there are different sizes of needles, they vary according to the depth of the skin that I want to reach in microneedling”, concludes the specialist.

Care before treatment

• Scalp assessment performed by a professional;
• Anamnesis in order to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment;
• Scalp hygiene.

Care after treatment

• Do not expose yourself to the sun, in a period of 2 to 3 days after the procedure
• Avoid exposing the treated area to heat sources (dryer, sauna, etc.) for 24 to 48 hours afterwards;
• Avoid applying local topical products to the treated area for 24 to 48 hours afterwards;
• Do not wash the area within 12 hours after;
• Do not handle the treated area (scratching, scabbing, etc.).

Anyway, these are the main care before and after the procedure, which should be performed by a trichologist specialized in the treatment.

Hair microneedling results

To obtain good results with microneedling, a series of care is needed during the treatment and also a certain number of sessions. “The number of sessions will depend on the pathology in question and the other associated treatments. Usually, we do 3 to 6 sessions with an average interval of 30 days between them. The amounts also vary depending on the assets we use. The average is between R$400 and R$750 per session”, explains Thalita.

In addition, Thalita warns that the result of the procedure is linked to several factors related to the patient’s health, “the result depends on numerous endogenous (patient health and control of the cause of alopecia) and exogenous (lifestyle and other procedures) factors. working in synergy”.

Finally, it is “important to point out that Microneedling is a supporting treatment that helps the growth and thickening of the wires (which have undergone thinning). It works by complementing and enhancing other therapies that must be performed in parallel. However, the cause of the alopecia in question must be under control, so that hair loss does not occur and even so that there is no thinning of the wires again”, points out the doctor.

Contraindications of hair microneedling

Like any procedure, capillary microneedling has a number of contraindications. Therefore, it is essential to look for a professional and make a complete evaluation of the scalp, as well as other conditions. Check, then, which are the cases in which the procedure is not indicated.

• Patients with clotting disorders: as it is a procedure that causes bleeding in the scalp, patients with clotting disorders cannot undergo treatment.
• Scalp injuries: according to Thalita, “those with scalp injuries are not able to undergo the procedure. This is because microneedling can aggravate the injury.”
• Local infections: “if the patient has an infection in the area where the procedure will be applied, the technique should not be performed at the risk of aggravating the infection, which can spread to other parts of the body”, explains the professional.
• Tendency to poor healing: “The biggest risk for those who have poor healing is that the procedure increases the chances of keloid scarring”, warns Thalita.
• Patients who use oral isotretinoin (Roaccutam): this type of medication has the effect of increasing the sensitivity of the skin, increasing the risk of scarring and blemishes.

Finally, hair microneedling is a procedure that helps fight hair loss, especially those caused by androgenetic alopecia or baldness. However, it is not indicated in all cases of hair loss. If you noticed that your hair started to fall out after you contracted Covid-19, read the article on post-covid hair loss.