Microneedling (also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT) or collagen induction treatment (CIT)) utilizes a needle roller to produce controlled puncture wounds in the skin. This idea is that by producing controlled wounds in the skin, the body will respond by producing new collagen.

Lately, microneedling is quite popular, especially because microneedling reportedly stimulates hair growth. However, is this claim true? And, is microneedling safe?

‍

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a procedure that uses a special needle roller to prick tiny holes in the skin. The procedure is also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT) and collagen induction treatment (CIT). The puncture wounds produced by microneedling are typically very small (less than 3 mm), although they can be larger.

Dermatologists or estheticians usually perform Microneedling. It's also possible to do it at home with a dermaroller.

The idea behind microneedling is that by producing controlled wounds in the skin, the body will respond by producing new collagen. This new collagen will supposedly help to reduce fine lines, acne scars, and stretch marks.

Microneedling is also said to stimulate hair growth. This is because it supposedly triggers the body to produce more hair follicles.

‍

Is Microneedling Safe?

Microneedling appears to be relatively safe. There are some reports of minor side effects such as redness, swelling, and pain. However, those side effects are often short-lived. It's possible to develop scarring as a result of microneedling, but it's rare.

There are several risks. These include:

• To reduce the risk of infection, sterilize your dermaroller between uses.
• In addition, make sure to wash your hands before using the dermaroller.
  

Additionally, if you have a bleeding disorder, you'll need to see a doctor before attempting microneedling. If you have a bleeding disorder, and you use a dermaroller, you could experience uncontrolled bleeding.

Microneedling doesn't appear to pose any long-term risks. However, there aren't any studies that have looked at the long-term effects of microneedling.

Microneedling also doesn't appear to pose any risks that are specific to the treatment of hair loss.

‍

Can Microneedling Help With Hair Loss?

Testing is currently underway to determine if microneedling is effective at treating hair loss. Previously, it was thought that microneedling was an effective hair loss treatment because of anecdotal reports of positive results. However, there was no evidence to support this.

Microneedling is said to stimulate hair growth. This is because it supposedly triggers the body to produce more hair follicles. In theory, this is possible. Microneedling does trigger the body to produce more collagen. And, it's possible that more new hair follicles can be produced as a result of this.

However, the idea that microneedling stimulates hair growth has not been proven in studies. In fact, there are few studies that have looked at the use of microneedling for hair loss.

One study used microneedling in combination with minoxidil and finasteride. Although the sample size was too small to make a conclusive statement, those who received the combination treatment experienced an “increase in hair count and hair density”. In addition, those who received the combination treatment also experienced “significant improvement in hair density”.

Microneedling also didn't appear to have any negative side effects. In particular, those who received the combination treatment didn't experience any adverse effects associated with the use of minoxidil.

‍

What Can Help with Hair Loss?

Hair loss can be disheartening, frustrating, and depressing. The good news is that there are many things that can help with hair loss, even if it's genetic.

Many men feel nervous going to see their doctor about their hair loss, but a good doctor should be able to address your concerns and help you figure out a good treatment plan.

Minoxidil — Minoxidil is a medication that can help with hair loss. It works by widening blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the hair follicles. While it's used to treat other conditions, such as high blood pressure, it's also been shown to help with hair loss. Minoxidil is available over the counter, but it's more effective when taken with Finasteride.

Finasteride — Finasteride is offered by Phoenix Health. It is a prescription medication for male pattern baldness and works best when taken in combination with Minoxidil. Studies show that men who take Finasteride for two years not only stop losing their hair, but 66% of those men grow their hair back.

Hair transplant — Hair transplantation is one of the most effective treatments for hair loss. Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure that moves hair from the back of the head to the top of the head. It works best on men who are losing hair in an area of their head that has already begun to thin.

‍

Conclusion

Hair loss is a frustrating problem that can be difficult to treat. However, there are many different treatments that can help with hair loss, including Finasteride, which is available through Phoenix.

Phoenix is a text-based platform, meaning you don't have to use a camera to talk with a doctor. Instead, you can simply text your doctor questions and receive answers in return. It's a convenient, reliable, and safe way to get the treatment you need.

‍