Treatments
Microneedling and Other Topical Hair Loss Solutions: Are They Worth It?
Microneedling and topical solutions such as peppermint oil, rosemary oil, caffeine and biotin are gaining popularity, but none of them is FDA-approved for hair loss, and their effectiveness remains unproven. Here is what each one claims to do, where the evidence stands, and why proven solutions are the better investment.
Key takeaways
- Microneedling is not FDA-approved for hair loss. It has shown some promise in small studies, but most positive results are anecdotal, and it is often combined with minoxidil or finasteride, so its own effect is hard to judge.
- Microneedling may help topicals such as minoxidil absorb more deeply, but conclusive evidence is still lacking. Significant hair growth is unlikely, it will not reverse hair loss, and any improvement needs ongoing use.
- Peppermint oil, rosemary oil, caffeine, saw palmetto, biotin and exosome therapy are not FDA-approved for hair loss either, and they lack the robust, long-term studies needed to establish their safety and effectiveness.
- Proven solutions offer predictable outcomes backed by clinical research: hair transplantation for approved candidates, FDA-approved finasteride and minoxidil, and FDA-cleared low-level laser therapy (LLLT).
With so many hair loss treatments on the market, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by options that promise to restore hair. Among the treatments gaining popularity are microneedling for hair loss and various topical solutions that claim to help with hair regrowth. While some patients may see results, it's essential to recognize that these treatments are not FDA-approved for hair loss, and their effectiveness remains unproven.
In this article, we'll explore microneedling and some topical alternatives, and discuss why it's important to focus on scientifically backed solutions for hair restoration.
What is microneedling (dermarolling)?
Microneedling, or derma rolling, involves using tiny needles to create micro-injuries on the surface of the scalp. This process is believed to stimulate the body's natural wound-healing response, which may promote hair growth by boosting collagen production and increasing blood flow to hair follicles. The idea is that this stimulation could potentially help in reviving dormant or miniaturized hair follicles.
While microneedling has shown some promise in small studies, it is important to note that the FDA has not approved microneedling as a hair loss treatment. Most of the positive results reported are anecdotal, and microneedling is often used in combination with other treatments, such as minoxidil or finasteride, making it difficult to determine if the microneedling alone is effective.
Microneedling with topical solutions
Microneedling is gaining attention when combined with topical treatments, such as minoxidil, to enhance their absorption. The theory is that the micro-injuries created by microneedling allow for deeper penetration of these topicals, potentially increasing their efficacy by delivering them more directly to the hair follicles.
While some studies suggest that combining microneedling with topical treatments can enhance their effects, conclusive evidence is still lacking, and more clinical research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Note: Over-the-counter micro-rollers with 0.25 mm pins, commonly found on platforms like Amazon, do not penetrate the skin. A 0.5 mm pin is required to puncture the skin, classifying it as a medical device that cannot be sold commercially online. Therefore, commercially purchased micro-rollers primarily provide minor trauma, in the hope of stimulating the body's natural wound-healing response to promote hair growth.
In addition to its potential benefits for hair growth, microneedling offers advantages such as exfoliation, increased blood circulation, and enhanced collagen production. These factors create a more conducive environment for hair growth.
However, significant hair growth is unlikely, and microneedling will not reverse hair loss. Ongoing use will be necessary to maintain any improvements achieved.
Other non-FDA-approved topical solutions
Several topical treatments claim to address hair loss, but like microneedling, they have not received FDA approval. Some of the most popular examples include:
- Peppermint oil: Often marketed as a natural solution, peppermint oil is thought to increase blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness in treating hair loss.
- Rosemary oil: Another natural option, rosemary oil is said to stimulate hair follicles and promote growth. Though it has shown some mild potential in small-scale studies, it is far from a proven solution, and its effectiveness as a standalone treatment remains unclear.
- Caffeine-based topical solutions: Some shampoos and topical treatments include caffeine, claiming that it stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair growth. While there is some research suggesting caffeine may help prevent hair loss, the evidence is minimal and largely speculative.
- Saw palmetto: Found in various shampoos and serums, saw palmetto is an herbal extract that is believed to block the effects of DHT, similar to finasteride. However, it has not been FDA-approved, and its efficacy has not been conclusively demonstrated in large-scale clinical trials.
- Biotin shampoos and serums: Biotin, a popular ingredient in many hair loss treatments, is often touted for its role in promoting hair strength and growth. While biotin can help strengthen existing hair, its direct impact on reversing hair loss is questionable, especially since most people get enough biotin through their diet.
- Exosome therapy: Although this is a more advanced treatment, exosome therapy falls under the topical category because it involves applying exosomes (tiny signaling molecules) to the scalp. The idea is that these exosomes might help repair damaged cells and stimulate hair growth. However, exosome therapy is not FDA-approved for hair loss, and its effectiveness is still being studied.
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The challenges of non-FDA-approved treatments
The main issue with non-FDA-approved treatments is that they lack the robust, long-term studies required to establish both their safety and effectiveness. Treatments like microneedling and the topical solutions mentioned above often rely on anecdotal evidence or small, short-term studies that don't provide the same level of confidence as FDA-approved options like minoxidil and finasteride.
Here is what each one is thought to do, and where the evidence stands:
| Treatment | The claim | The evidence so far |
|---|---|---|
| Microneedling | Tiny needles trigger the body's wound-healing response, which may boost collagen and blood flow; may help topicals absorb | Some promise in small studies; most positive results are anecdotal |
| Peppermint oil | Increases blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles | Limited scientific evidence |
| Rosemary oil | Stimulates hair follicles and promotes growth | Some mild potential in small-scale studies; far from proven |
| Caffeine-based topicals | Stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair growth | Minimal and largely speculative |
| Saw palmetto | Blocks the effects of DHT, similar to finasteride | Not conclusively demonstrated in large-scale clinical trials |
| Biotin shampoos and serums | Promotes hair strength and growth | Can strengthen existing hair; its impact on reversing hair loss is questionable |
| Exosome therapy | Helps repair damaged cells and stimulate hair growth | Still being studied |
Moreover, many of these treatments are marketed as "natural" alternatives, which can create a false sense of security.
Natural is not a guarantee
Just because something is labeled as natural doesn't mean it's safe or effective. Without FDA approval, there's no guarantee that the treatment will work, or that it won't cause unintended side effects.
Should you try microneedling or topical solutions?
For individuals dealing with hair loss, microneedling or topical treatments might seem like a cost-effective, minimally invasive option. However, because these treatments are unproven and often require ongoing, expensive upkeep, it's essential to manage your expectations.
Many patients who use microneedling or topical solutions do so in combination with more proven therapies, such as finasteride or minoxidil. This combination approach makes it difficult to assess whether the microneedling or topical treatment is effective on its own.
The importance of investing in proven solutions
When it comes to hair restoration, it's crucial to focus on FDA-approved treatments and proven methods that provide real, long-lasting results. Treatments that offer predictable outcomes backed by clinical research include:
- Hair transplantation for approved candidates
- FDA-approved medications such as finasteride and minoxidil
- FDA-cleared devices like low-level laser therapy (LLLT)
At Advanced Hair Restoration®, we prioritize treatments that deliver tangible results and are in the best interest of our patients. We understand that hair loss can be frustrating and difficult to manage, which is why we recommend sticking to solutions that have been thoroughly vetted and approved by medical professionals.
Conclusion: stick to what works
While microneedling and other topical hair loss solutions may sound promising, their lack of FDA approval and clinical validation makes them a gamble when it comes to effectiveness. Hair loss is a complex issue, and to get real results, it's best to invest in proven solutions like hair transplantation and FDA-approved medications.
At Advanced Hair Restoration®, we are committed to providing our patients with scientifically backed treatments that prioritize their long-term success and satisfaction. If you're considering hair restoration options, we encourage you to consult with our experts to determine the best course of action based on your individual needs. Consultations are free and in person, because a hair loss professional examines your scalp and donor area directly and maps your exact graft count.
Related reading: Finasteride for Hair Loss, Non-Surgical Hair Loss Medical Treatments and Therapy, How Does Hair Transplantation Work?, Is a Hair Transplant Permanent? and What to Expect at Your Hair Restoration Consultation.
Questions patients ask
Microneedling and topical treatment questions
Is microneedling FDA-approved for hair loss?
No. The FDA has not approved microneedling as a hair loss treatment. It has shown some promise in small studies, but most of the positive results reported are anecdotal. Microneedling is also often used in combination with other treatments, such as minoxidil or finasteride, which makes it difficult to determine whether microneedling alone is effective.
Can microneedling reverse hair loss?
No. Microneedling offers advantages such as exfoliation, increased blood circulation and enhanced collagen production, which create a more conducive environment for hair growth. It may also help topicals such as minoxidil penetrate more deeply, although conclusive evidence for that is still lacking. Significant hair growth is unlikely, microneedling will not reverse hair loss, and ongoing use is necessary to maintain any improvements.
Do peppermint oil, rosemary oil, caffeine or biotin work for hair loss?
None of them is a proven treatment, and none has received FDA approval. There is limited scientific evidence that peppermint oil is effective in treating hair loss. Rosemary oil has shown some mild potential in small-scale studies, but it is far from a proven solution. The evidence for caffeine is minimal and largely speculative. Biotin can help strengthen existing hair, but its direct impact on reversing hair loss is questionable, especially since most people get enough biotin through their diet.
Which hair loss treatments are proven?
Hair transplantation for approved candidates, FDA-approved medications such as finasteride and minoxidil, and FDA-cleared devices like low-level laser therapy (LLLT) offer predictable outcomes backed by clinical research. Advanced Hair Restoration® recommends sticking to solutions that have been thoroughly vetted and approved by medical professionals, rather than unproven treatments that often require ongoing, expensive upkeep.
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