What is the Best Microneedling Depth for Hair Growth?

Hair Type	Recommended Depth
Fine/Thin	0.5mm – 0.75mm
Normal	0.75mm – 1.0mm
Thick	1.0mm – 1.5mm

These depths allow the needles to penetrate the scalp sufficiently to stimulate hair follicles without causing excessive damage. However, the ideal depth can vary based on individual factors such as skin thickness and hair loss severity.

Now, let’s dive deeper into the world of microneedling for hair growth to understand why depth matters and how to achieve the best results.

Understanding Microneedling for Hair Growth

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, has gained popularity as a treatment for various skin concerns, including hair loss. This minimally invasive procedure involves creating tiny punctures in the skin using fine needles. When applied to the scalp, microneedling can potentially stimulate hair growth through several mechanisms:

1. Increased blood flow to hair follicles
2. Enhanced absorption of hair growth products
3. Stimulation of collagen and elastin production
4. Activation of stem cells in hair follicles

The effectiveness of microneedling for hair growth largely depends on using the correct needle depth. Too shallow, and you might not reach the hair follicles; too deep, and you risk damaging the scalp or causing excessive pain.

Factors Influencing the Ideal Microneedling Depth

Several factors come into play when determining the best microneedling depth for hair growth:

1. Scalp Thickness

The thickness of your scalp skin can vary depending on factors such as age, gender, and overall health. Generally, men tend to have thicker scalp skin than women, and younger individuals have thicker skin than older adults. A thicker scalp may require slightly longer needles to reach the appropriate depth.

2. Hair Loss Severity

The stage and type of hair loss you’re experiencing can influence the optimal needle depth. For early-stage hair thinning, a shallower depth may be sufficient. More advanced hair loss might benefit from slightly deeper penetration to stimulate dormant follicles.

3. Pain Tolerance

While microneedling isn’t typically described as painful, it can cause discomfort. Your pain tolerance may influence the depth you’re comfortable using. Starting with a shallower depth and gradually increasing it over time can help build tolerance.

4. Treatment Frequency

The frequency of your microneedling sessions can affect the ideal depth. For more frequent treatments (e.g., weekly), a shallower depth is often recommended to avoid overworking the scalp. Less frequent sessions (e.g., monthly) may benefit from slightly deeper penetration.

Understanding Your Hair Type for Microneedling

Determining your hair type is crucial for selecting the appropriate microneedling depth. Here’s a more detailed guide to help you identify your hair type:

Fine/Thin Hair

• Characteristics:
• Individual strands feel soft and wispy
• Hair appears flat and lacks volume
• You can easily see your scalp through the hair
• Test: Take a single strand of hair and roll it between your fingers. If you can barely feel it, your hair is likely fine.

Normal Hair

• Characteristics:
• Strands have a medium texture
• Hair has some volume and body
• Scalp is partially visible, but not prominently
• Test: If a single strand feels present between your fingers but isn’t particularly coarse, you likely have normal hair.

Thick Hair

• Characteristics:
• Individual strands feel coarse or rough
• Hair appears full and voluminous
• Scalp is rarely visible through the hair
• Test: If a single strand feels sturdy and easily noticeable between your fingers, your hair is likely thick.

Additional Factors to Consider:

• Density: This refers to the number of hairs per square inch on your scalp. High density can make hair appear thicker overall, even if individual strands are fine.
• Texture: This relates to the curl pattern of your hair (straight, wavy, curly, coily). Curly and coily hair types may require adjustments in microneedling technique.
• Scalp condition: Consider factors like oiliness, dryness, or sensitivity when choosing your microneedling depth.

Recommended Depths for Different Purposes

Different microneedling depths can target various layers of the scalp, each serving a specific purpose:

• 0.25mm – 0.5mm: Enhances product absorption without stimulating collagen production. Ideal for frequent use (2-3 times per week) to improve the effectiveness of topical hair growth treatments.
• 0.5mm – 0.75mm: Stimulates the epidermis, promoting better product absorption and mild collagen production. Suitable for weekly use on fine or thinning hair.
• 0.75mm – 1.0mm: Reaches the dermis, stimulating collagen production and potentially activating stem cells in hair follicles. Recommended for normal hair types, used every 1-2 weeks.
• 1.0mm – 1.5mm: Penetrates deeper into the dermis, providing more significant stimulation. Best for thick hair or more advanced hair loss, used every 2-4 weeks.

It’s crucial to note that depths beyond 1.5mm are generally not recommended for at-home use due to the increased risk of injury and infection.

How to Determine Your Ideal Microneedling Depth

Finding the perfect microneedling depth for your hair growth journey may require some experimentation. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Start with a conservative depth (e.g., 0.5mm) for your first few sessions.
2. Observe how your scalp reacts. Mild redness and sensitivity are normal, but excessive pain or bleeding indicates the depth is too high.
3. Gradually increase the depth by 0.25mm increments if you’re not seeing desired results after several sessions.
4. Pay attention to any improvements in hair thickness, density, or the appearance of new growth.
5. Once you find a depth that provides noticeable results without causing excessive discomfort, stick with it for consistent treatments.

Combining Microneedling with Other Hair Growth Treatments

Microneedling can enhance the effectiveness of other hair growth treatments by improving their absorption. Some popular combinations include:

• Minoxidil: Apply immediately after microneedling to potentially boost its efficacy.
• Peptide serums: These can penetrate deeper when applied post-microneedling.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Often combined with professional microneedling treatments for enhanced results.

When combining treatments, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure safety and optimize results.

Safety Considerations

While microneedling can be an effective hair growth treatment, it’s crucial to prioritize safety:

• Always sterilize your microneedling device before and after use.
• Don’t share your device with others to prevent infection.
• Avoid microneedling if you have active scalp infections, open wounds, or skin conditions.
• If you’re using minoxidil or other topical treatments, wait at least 24 hours after microneedling before applying them.
• Consider starting with professional treatments before transitioning to at-home microneedling.

Conclusion

The best microneedling depth for hair growth typically ranges from 0.5mm to 1.5mm, depending on factors such as hair type, scalp thickness, and treatment goals. Starting with a conservative depth and gradually increasing it can help you find the sweet spot for your individual needs.

While microneedling shows promise as a hair growth treatment, it’s essential to approach it with patience and consistency. Results may take several months to become noticeable, and combining microneedling with other proven hair growth strategies can enhance its effectiveness.

Before starting any new hair loss treatment, including micro needling, it’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist or trichologist. They can provide personalised advice based on your specific hair loss pattern and overall health, ensuring you achieve the best possible results safely and effectively.

References

1. Dhurat, R., & Mathapati, S. (2015). Response to Microneedling Treatment in Men with Androgenetic Alopecia Who Failed to Respond to Conventional Therapy. Indian Journal of Dermatology, 60(3), 260-263. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4458936/
2. Fertig, R. M., Gamret, A. C., Cervantes, J., & Tosti, A. (2018). Microneedling for the treatment of hair loss? Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 32(4), 564-569. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jdv.14722
3. Iriarte, C., Awosika, O., Rengifo-Pardo, M., & Ehrlich, A. (2017). Review of applications of microneedling in dermatology. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 10, 289-298. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5556180/
4. Chandrashekar, B. S., Yepuri, V., & Mysore, V. (2014). Alopecia areata-successful outcome with microneedling and triamcinolone acetonide. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 7(1), 63-64. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4009750/
5. Singal, A., Sonthalia, S., & Verma, P. (2021). Facial allergic granulomatous reaction and systemic hypersensitivity associated with microneedle therapy for skin rejuvenation. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 14(1), 106-109. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8119428/
6. Starace, M., Alessandrini, A., Brandi, N., & Piraccini, B. M. (2020). Preliminary results of the use of scalp microneedling in different types of alopecia. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 19(3), 646-650. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jocd.13061
7. Lima, E. V. A., Lima, M. A., & Takano, D. (2013). Microagulhamento: estudo experimental e classificação da injúria provocada. Surgical & Cosmetic Dermatology, 5(2), 110-114. http://www.surgicalcosmetic.org.br/detalhe-artigo/264/Microagulhamento–estudo-experimental-e-classificacao-da-injuria-provocada
8. Kalil, C. L. P. V., Campos, V. B., Chaves, C. R. P., Pitassi, L. H. U., & Cignachi, S. (2017). Comparative, randomized, double-blind study of microneedling associated with drug delivery for rejuvenating the skin of the anterior thorax region. Surgical & Cosmetic Dermatology, 9(2), 118-124. http://www.surgicalcosmetic.org.br/detalhe-artigo/557/Estudo-comparativo–randomizado-e-duplo-cego-do-microagulhamento-associado-a-drug-delivery-para-rejuvenescimento-da-pele-da-regiao-anterior-do-torax