Minoxidil & Dermaroller: What They Won't Tell You?

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry M.B.B.S.
Written by Our Editorial Team
Last updated

If you're considering using minoxidil with dermaroller to stimulate hair growth, you're probably also wondering if it's worth the investment.

In this post, we'll take a closer look at how minoxidil and dermaroller work and share some of the pros and cons of using one.

You will better understand whether you should use a dermaroller with minoxidil, and what other options are there?

Can you use minoxidil with a dermaroller?

dermaroller

Minoxidil is a popular treatment for hair loss, but can you use it with a dermaroller? The answer is yes!

Minoxidil is a topical solution applied directly to the scalp, so there is no risk of it being absorbed into the skin.

Additionally, the dermaroller creates microscopic channels in the top layer of skin, which can help to improve the absorption of minoxidil.

So, if you are looking for an effective way to treat hair loss, using minoxidil with a dermaroller is an excellent option to speed up results.

How to choose the best dermaroller?

If there's anything that you should buy high-end, it's a dermaroller.

After all, the needles will penetrate your scalp, so you want something that's made out of good materials that won't cause any nasty infection.

The shape of the dermaroller is also important, as well-thought-out designs will allow you to easily and completely dermaroll your scalp, ensuring even hair growth.

Lastly, the material should be durable. Dermaroller isn't disposable, so opting for high-quality ones that last a lifetime is better for your wallet, your hair growth and the environment than cheap ones that snap in half or deteriorate.

You can of course spend hours on end researching for one that has all those features, or you can instantly get a luxurious-feeling dermaroller delivered to your doorsteps.

Enjoy a luxurious dermarolling experience

dermaroller

How to use a dermaroller with minoxidil?

In short, to use dermaroller with minoxidil, first, cleanse the scalp and dry it completely. Then, apply minoxidil to the scalp and allow it to dry.

Next, roll the dermaroller over the treated area in a criss-cross pattern, applying light pressure. Repeat this process once a week.

Here are six detailed steps you can take to ensure your minoxidil dermarolling experience:

  1. Make sure that your scalp is clean and dry.
  2. Take the dermaroller and carefully roll it over your scalp in different directions. Be sure to go slowly and not press too hard, as this irritates you. After you have rolled the dermaroller over your scalp, apply a generous amount of minoxidil (here's how much) to your head and massage it in. then, wash your hands thoroughly.
  3. Wait for the minoxidil to dry before applying it to your scalp.
  4. Once the minoxidil is dry, apply a generous amount of conditioner to your head and massage it.
  5. Rinse your head with cold water.
  6. Use a towel to dry your hair and style as usual.
  7. Repeat the dermaroller use once every two days for the best results.

How often should you use a dermaroller for hair loss?

bald man minoxidil dermarolling

A dermaroller is a popular tool for hair loss, but how often should you use it to see results? The answer may surprise you. dermarolling is most effective when performed every other day.

That's right - using the dermaroller daily can lead to less effective results. This is because the body needs time to recover between sessions.

When you use the dermaroller too frequently, you may end up damaging the skin and causing inflammation, which can lead to hair loss.

So if you're looking to dermaroll your way to a fuller head of hair, be sure to space your sessions accordingly. And who knows - you may even find that every other day is too often. Like with most things in life, moderation is key.

Side effects of dermarolling

And like anything else in life, dermarolling comes with a few potential side effects.

The most common is temporary redness, swelling, and skin bruising. This is usually nothing to worry about and will go away within a day or two.

Other possible side effects include infection, scarring, and hyperpigmentation.

However, these are relatively rare and can generally be avoided by taking proper skin care before and after dermarolling.

In short, dermarolling is safe for most people when done correctly.

If you're in doubt, be sure to consult with a doctor or dermatologist before getting started.

Alternative treatments to dermarolling

woman dermarolling on scalp

As an alternative to dermarolling, finasteride can be used to help improve the effectiveness of minoxidil. Finasteride is a prescription medication that is typically used to treat hair loss.

Studies have shown that combined use of minoxidil and finasteride are more effective when used together.

Is it safe to use minoxidil after dermaroller?

It is generally safe to use minoxidil after dermaroller, but it is important to wait at least 24 hours after dermarolling before applying minoxidil to avoid any potential irritation.

When to use minoxidil after dermaroller?

It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after dermarolling before applying minoxidil to avoid any potential irritation.

References

Doddaballapur, S. (2009). Microneedling with dermaroller. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery2(2), 110. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-2077.58529

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Dr. Ahmad Chaudhry M.B.B.S. is a House Physician in the Medical Unit 3 Allied Hospital, Faisalabad, and deals with hepatic, cardiac, neurological, and dermatological issues daily. He did his MBBS from Punjab Medical College, Faisalabad. He believes that a good haircare routine is one where you nourish it naturally. During his free time, he works as a dermatologist for Scandinavian Biolabs.