Medical Aesthetics Treatment: Microneedling for hair loss benefits:
This treatment is best before you try extreme procedures with little to no down time, this treatment is easy and affordable, with amazing results.
Aside from collagen production in the skin, microneedling can also help induce stem cellsTrusted Source in the hair follicles that may lead to hair growth. Making dormant hair back to life.
Microneedling Treatments may also promote the absorption of products used to treat your hair loss, such as:
- minoxidil (Rogaine)
- topical steroid
- platelet rich plasma
The potential benefits of microneedling when used with a topical corticosteroid to treat alopecia areata or hair loss in general.
How it works:
During microneedling, your healthcare provider uses a device with an attachment of macro needles. The size of the needles can range from less than 1 millimeter to a few millimeters in length. They’re all contained in a handheld device.
This procedure time can vary based on the size of the treatment area, but it generally takes less than 45 minutes. No pain is involved, The treatment feels “scratchy” or you feel nothing at all.
Side effects of microneedling:
- bruising
- oozing from the wounds
- redness
- swelling
- pain
The area may be red and inflamed for a few days following the procedure. Most side effects diminish within 5 days after your treatment.
Speak with your healthcare provider & Fresh Envy Aesthetics before considering this treatment if you:
- have a history of acne or eczema
- have a condition that slows healing, such as diabetes
- are on blood thinners or other medications
- keloid scar
- have an underlying immunosuppressive issues
- women who are pregnant.
Using minoxidil (men’s minoxidil is cheaper and the same formula as women’s) immediately after microneedling can increase the absorption of hair loss creams & serums. You can apply these treatments after 3 days of the treatment.
Your scalp may be more sensitive to the sun after treatment. Wearing mineral sunscreen every day is recommended.
Another risk of microneedling on your head is the possibility of infection. While the needles are small, they’re still inflicting wounds. You’ll need to follow your aftercare instructions carefully to prevent infection. Your aftercare often involves keeping the area clean for a few days, as well as using a prescribed topical or oral antibiotic to ward off bacteria.
Why Aftercare is Crucial for Microneedling Success:
Microneedling stimulates blood flow and activates the body’s natural repair mechanisms.
However, while the treatment initiates this regenerative process, the care you take afterward is crucial to ensuring these results materialize fully. Following the right aftercare steps will not only prevent infections but also reduce inflammation and enhance hair growth. Neglecting aftercare could interfere with the recovery process and reduce the effectiveness of the microneedling treatment.
Microneedling Aftercare:
1. Delay Washing Your Hair
Washing your hair immediately after microneedling can disrupt the healing process. The tiny punctures created by microneedling need time to close and heal.
Washing too soon may not only wash away the beneficial serums applied by the hair clinic during the treatment but could also irritate the sensitive scalp and hinder hair growth.
It’s recommended to wait at least 24-48 hours after the microneedling treatment before washing your hair. If necessary you can wash it in slightly warm water within 6 hours. It’s best to wait to allow the serum used to stay on as long as possible.
When you do wash, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Avoid using harsh shampoos or products with strong fragrances, as these can further irritate the scalp.
2. Protect Your Scalp from Sun Exposure
Your scalp will be particularly sensitive following a microneedling session. The skin is vulnerable to damage from UV rays, and direct sun exposure can cause redness, irritation, and even hinder the healing process. Even after the initial healing period, it’s wise to protect your scalp from prolonged sun exposure to maintain the health of your scalp and newly regenerated hair.
How to Protect Your Scalp: If you’re going outdoors, wear a hat or use a scarf to cover your scalp, especially in the first few days after treatment. This helps minimize irritation caused by the sun.
Use MINERAL Sunscreen if Necessary.
3. Avoid Heat and Hot Showers
Hair clinic professionals warn against exposing your scalp to excessive heat after microneedling. Heat can increase inflammation, cause irritation, and delay healing. Hot showers, hairdryers, and even saunas can aggravate the scalp, leading to unnecessary discomfort.
What to Avoid: Avoid using hairdryers on high heat, taking hot showers, or going to saunas for at least 48-72 hours after the procedure.
How to Adjust: If you must wash your hair, opt for lukewarm water, and if using a hairdryer, set it to the lowest temperature setting or allow your hair to air-dry. This precaution helps reduce the risk of swelling and allows the scalp to recover without added stress.
4. Keep Your Scalp Clean Without Harsh Products
Maintaining a clean scalp is vital for the success of your microneedling treatment. However, not all cleaning methods are suitable immediately after your procedure. Many commercial shampoos contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the scalp and disrupt the healing process.
What Products to Avoid: Stay away from products containing sulfates, alcohol, or fragrances. These can dry out the scalp and may lead to irritation. Additionally, avoid using styling products such as gels, hair sprays, or waxes for at least a week. These can clog pores and slow down the healing process, preventing the scalp from fully recovering.
What to Use: Instead, use mild, fragrance-free, sulfate-free shampoos. Many hair clinics recommend specially formulated post-treatment shampoos designed for sensitive scalps.
5. Keep Your Scalp Moisturized
Microneedling can sometimes leave the scalp feeling dry and flaky as it heals. Keeping your scalp hydrated is essential to ensure a smooth recovery and to nourish the newly stimulated hair follicles. However, the type of moisturizer you use is just as important as the act of moisturizing itself.
Moisturizers to Use: Use lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers or serums designed for sensitive or healing scalps.
What to Avoid: Avoid using heavy creams or oils that may clog the tiny punctures made during microneedling.
Limit Physical Activity and Exercise
Sweating can irritate your scalp post-microneedling, so it’s essential to avoid strenuous physical activities that can cause excessive sweating. Sweat can cause bacteria to build up on the scalp, increasing the risk of infection and inflammation.
When to Avoid Exercise: Refrain from high-intensity workouts, gym sessions, or outdoor sports for at least 48-72 hours after treatment. Allowing your scalp to remain dry and clean in the early days after microneedling ensures that it can heal quickly and without complications.
Alternatives: If you want to stay active, consider low-impact exercises like walking, stretching, or yoga that won’t cause you to sweat excessively.
Stay Away from Swimming Pools
Swimming pools, hot tubs, and natural bodies of water such as lakes and oceans should be avoided after microneedling. The chemicals in pools, such as chlorine, can irritate the scalp and interfere with the healing process.
Why Avoid Swimming: Chlorinated water can dry out the scalp, aggravating the puncture wounds created during microneedling. Natural bodies of water may also contain bacteria that could lead to infection.
How Long to Avoid:
Stay away from swimming for at least one week post-treatment, or longer if advised by your hair clinic. This precaution will help your scalp recover in a safe, clean environment and prevent potential setbacks.
Avoid Hair Treatments with Chemicals
Chemical treatments such as hair coloring, perming, or chemical straightening should be avoided for a few weeks after microneedling. The scalp is more sensitive during the healing process, and applying harsh chemicals can slow recovery and damage the newly forming hair.
Postpone any salon treatments that involve chemicals, including hair dye, perms, or chemical relaxers.
What to Do:
typically recommend waiting 4-6 weeks after microneedling before resuming any chemical treatments. This gives your scalp enough time to heal and for the hair follicles to regenerate fully.
Support Your Recovery with a Healthy Diet
Nutrition plays a significant role in the recovery process following microneedling. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet supports your body’s ability to heal and promotes hair growth from within. Hair clinic experts often emphasize the importance of consuming the right vitamins and minerals.
Key Nutrients: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, D, and E, biotin, and protein are particularly beneficial for hair growth. A well-rounded diet not only speeds up recovery but also strengthens your hair, helping you achieve the best results from your microneedling treatment.
Recommended Foods: Include fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, eggs, and berries in your diet to provide the essential nutrients needed for hair restoration.
What to Expect After Microneedling
After a microneedling session, it’s common to experience some mild side effects. These are typical responses to the procedure and a sign that the body’s natural healing process is underway. Here are some common post-treatment effects and what to expect during the recovery period:
Redness and Swelling: Directly after the treatment, you may notice that your scalp is red and slightly swollen. This is due to the tiny punctures created during microneedling, which temporarily inflame the skin.
This redness should subside within 24 to 48 hours, though it might last a bit longer if you have sensitive skin.
Tenderness or Soreness: The scalp may feel tender or sore to the touch. This sensitivity usually diminishes after a day or two as the scalp begins to heal. Avoiding touching or scratching your scalp during this period to prevent irritation.
Tingling or Itching: Some patients report a tingling or itching sensation as the skin begins to heal. This is a normal response and is a sign that the scalp is regenerating new skin cells and healing. Avoid the temptation to scratch, as this could disrupt the healing process and cause further irritation.
Slight Dryness or Flakiness: As the skin repairs itself, it’s not unusual for the scalp to become slightly dry or flaky. This is the skin’s natural exfoliation process as dead cells are replaced with new, healthier ones. Using a gentle moisturizer or following your treatment with aftercare recommendations can help alleviate this.
