
doi: 10.1111/jocd.14525
pmid: 34714971
AbstractBackgroundMicroneedling is a relatively novel therapeutic modality introduced in the 1990s where small, fine needles are used to create micro punctures in the skin. It is a minimally invasive procedure used for various dermatological conditions, including androgenetic alopecia (AGA).Objective and MethodsWe comprehensively summarize the literature regarding microneedling in dermatology. We performed linear multivariable regressions to synthesize evidence from the clinical trials that investigated the efficacy of microneedling for AGA. Studies eligible for quantitative analyses were assessed for evidence quality.ResultsThe exact mechanism of microneedling action is yet to be determined, with theories that include the wound‐healing cascade. Microneedling monotherapy significantly increased total hair count more than topical minoxidil 5% (β = 12.29; p < 0.001). The combination treatment of microneedling with topical 5% minoxidil increased total hair count significantly compared to monotherapy with microneedling (β = 7.63, p < 0.05). Increasing the overall treatment duration of microneedling and reducing the frequency of microneedling sessions may positively influence an increase in total hair count.ConclusionThere are limited studies that investigate microneedling as a monotherapy for hair loss since majority of the trials combine it with other therapies such as topical minoxidil or platelet‐rich plasma. While preliminary results look promising, further investigation of microneedling as a monotherapy in larger, randomized controlled trials will help determine its safety and efficacy, and place in treating AGA.
Treatment Outcome, Needles, Platelet-Rich Plasma, Minoxidil, Humans, Alopecia, Hair
Treatment Outcome, Needles, Platelet-Rich Plasma, Minoxidil, Humans, Alopecia, Hair
| citations This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | 31 | |
| popularity This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% | |
| influence This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | Top 10% | |
| impulse This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% |
