Minoxidil and dermarolling are two popular hair loss treatments that can be used on their own or in combination. Minoxidil is a topical medication that works by stimulating hair growth, while dermarolling is a microneedling treatment that creates tiny channels in the scalp to improve blood circulation and boost collagen production.
How does minoxidil work?
Minoxidil is a vasodilator, which means that it widens blood vessels. This increased blood flow to the scalp helps to nourish hair follicles and promote hair growth. Minoxidil also works by prolonging the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle, which is the phase when hair is actively growing.
How does dermarolling work?
Dermarolling, also known as microneedling, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a handheld device with tiny needles to create micro-channels in the scalp. This process stimulates the natural healing response of the body, which leads to increased blood flow, collagen production, and cell turnover.
Benefits of using minoxidil and dermarolling together
There is growing evidence that using minoxidil and dermarolling together can be more effective for hair regrowth than using either treatment alone.
One study found that men who used minoxidil and dermarolling together for 6 months had significantly greater hair regrowth than those who used minoxidil alone. Another study found that women with androgenetic alopecia (female pattern hair loss) who used minoxidil and dermarolling together for 12 months had significantly greater hair regrowth and scalp density than those who used minoxidil alone.
How to use minoxidil and dermarolling together
If you are considering using minoxidil and dermarolling together, here is a step-by-step guide:
- Dermaroll your scalp. Use a dermaroller with a needle length of 0.5mm to 1.0mm. Roll the dermaroller over your scalp in a vertical, horizontal, and diagonal direction for 2-3 minutes.
- Wait 24 hours before applying minoxidil. This will give your scalp time to heal from the dermarolling procedure.
- Apply minoxidil to your scalp as directed. Be sure to apply minoxidil to the entire scalp, not just the areas where you are experiencing hair loss.
- Repeat steps 1-3 every 7-10 days.
Side effects of using minoxidil and dermarolling together
The most common side effects of using minoxidil and dermarolling together are scalp irritation, dryness, and redness. These side effects are usually mild and temporary.
Other things to keep in mind
- It is important to talk to your doctor before using minoxidil and dermarolling together, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
- Be sure to use a sterile dermaroller to avoid infection.
- Do not use minoxidil on irritated or broken skin.
- Be patient. It can take several months to see results from using minoxidil and dermarolling together.
Conclusion
Using minoxidil and dermarolling together can be a more effective hair loss treatment than using either treatment alone. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before using these treatments together, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Additional tips for using minoxidil and dermarolling together
- Use a good quality dermaroller with a needle length of 0.5mm to 1.0mm.
- Dermaroll your scalp every 7-10 days.
- Wait 24 hours before applying minoxidil to your scalp after dermarolling.
- Apply minoxidil to your entire scalp, not just the areas where you are experiencing hair loss.
- Be patient. It can take several months to see results from using minoxidil and dermarolling together.
Lifestyle changes for hair regrowth
In addition to using minoxidil and dermarolling, there are a number of lifestyle changes that you can make to promote hair regrowth, including:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Reducing stress
- Getting enough sleep
- Exercising regularly
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success with minoxidil and dermarolling for hair regrowth.