MICRONEEDLING · HAIR REGENERATION

Clinical evidence supports microneedling as an effective treatment for androgenetic hair loss, particularly in combination with topical minoxidil or PRP. A 2024 meta-analysis found the combination significantly increased hair density and diameter compared to monotherapy. It reactivates follicles that are weakened or dormant; it cannot regrow hair where follicles are no longer present.

Topical anaesthetic is applied to the scalp before treatment. Most patients describe a mild pressure or scratching sensation during the procedure, but not significant pain. Post-treatment sensitivity and mild redness typically resolve within 24–48 hours. The experience is generally well-tolerated.

Minoxidil needs to be converted by an enzyme called sulfotransferase to become active in the scalp. Microneedling increases sulfotransferase activity by approximately 37.5% over 21 days following treatment. Separately, the microchannels created allow far more of the applied minoxidil to penetrate to follicle depth, rather than remaining on the surface. The same dose of medication produces a stronger effect.

The Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway is the primary biological switch that controls whether a hair follicle is in an active growth phase (anagen) or a resting phase (telogen). DHT suppresses this pathway, which is why follicles miniaturise and eventually stop producing hair under androgenetic hair loss. Microneedling mechanically upregulates Wnt protein expression, directly stimulating the pathway that DHT has been suppressing.

Home dermarollers are significantly different from clinical microneedling, both in needle depth and delivery consistency. The clinical evidence for microneedling's effectiveness is based on professional-grade devices at depths of 0.5–1.5mm. Home dermarollers typically reach 0.2–0.5mm, which is insufficient to stimulate the dermal layer where follicle activity occurs. If home use is appropriate as an adjunct, Dr Jai can advise on the right device and technique.

An initial course of weekly sessions over 8–12 weeks is typical, with the exact duration depending on your hair loss stage and the combination protocol in use. After the initial course, monthly maintenance sessions sustain the benefit. Results are gradual and cumulative, the improvement compounds over successive treatments.

Yes, and this is one of the most effective combinations in non-surgical hair restoration. PRP applied immediately after microneedling reaches follicle depth via the microchannels rather than requiring a separate injection. The growth factors in PRP act on the same biological pathways that microneedling has just stimulated, producing a compounded regenerative effect.

Minimal. Most patients experience mild scalp redness and sensitivity for 24–48 hours comparable to mild sunburn. Normal activities can be resumed the same day. Avoid vigorous exercise, swimming, or direct sun on the scalp for 24 hours. Detailed post-treatment care instructions are provided at each session.

Yes. The biological mechanisms microneedling activates- Wnt signalling, growth factor release, and improved topical absorption- are not gender-specific. For women with diffuse thinning, combining microneedling with topical minoxidil is among the most clinically supported non-surgical approaches available.

Wait until the transplanted area has fully healed, typically at least three months post-procedure, and only after Dr Jai has reviewed the healing at your follow-up appointment. Microneedling on the transplanted area before full graft establishment risks disturbing the result. On non-transplanted areas of the scalp, it can often be introduced sooner as part of post-surgical maintenance.