Noticing a widening parting, a thinner crown or more hair in the shower can be worrying. Scalp microneedling has become one of the most talked-about at-home steps for fuller-looking hair, with research showing particularly encouraging results alongside scalp products. This guide covers everything you need to know to get started.
The short answer: scalp microneedling creates tiny channels in the scalp, which prompts its natural renewal processes and helps scalp products absorb more effectively. It's best suited to gradual thinning. Use a 24-pin, 36-pin or 42-pin cartridge at 0.6mm to start, every 2 weeks, and allow 3 to 6 months of consistent sessions before judging results.
Is scalp microneedling right for you?
Scalp microneedling is best suited to gradual thinning, such as a widening parting, a receding hairline or a thinning crown. See your GP or a dermatologist first if your thinning:
- is sudden or happens in patches
- comes with itching, pain, redness, scaling or sores
- started after an illness, a new medicine, a major life event or having a baby
These can have other causes that are worth looking into.
How microneedling helps
Researchers have suggested two main ways scalp microneedling may help:
- Natural renewal. The tiny channels prompt the scalp's own repair processes, which may support the hair growth cycle.
- Better absorption. The channels may help scalp products reach where they're needed.
Most published research has looked at microneedling combined with scalp products such as minoxidil. A widely cited 2013 study found people who added weekly microneedling to minoxidil saw noticeably better results than those using minoxidil alone. Read more in Microneedling With Minoxidil.
What you'll need
- A microneedling pen with adjustable depth, such as Olapen
- Sterile, sealed cartridges: 24-pin, 36-pin or 42-pin
- A plain hyaluronic acid serum as a glide
- Alcohol wipes, a comb and hair clips
Depth and frequency
| Depth | How often | Who it's for |
|---|---|---|
| 0.6mm | Every 2 weeks | Everyone starting out |
| 0.8mm | Every 3 weeks | After a few comfortable sessions at 0.6mm |
| 1.0mm | Every 4 weeks | The maximum we recommend at home |
Many people stay at 0.6mm. Deeper isn't necessarily better. See scalp microneedling: how often, how deep and what to apply.
Step by step
- Wash and dry your hair the day before or that morning.
- Disinfect your hands and pen. Wipe your scalp along the partings with alcohol wipes and let it dry.
- Attach a new, sealed cartridge and set 0.6mm and a low speed.
- Section your hair with a comb and clips, making partings about 1 to 2cm apart.
- Apply a little hyaluronic acid along each parting.
- Glide slowly along each parting, holding the pen at 90 degrees. Don't press.
- Work across the thinning areas, then extend slightly into the surrounding scalp.
- Finish with a little more hyaluronic acid. Dispose of the cartridge and clean your pen.
Our guide to microneedling for hair thinning has more detail.
Aftercare
- Wait 24 hours before washing your hair.
- Avoid dye, bleach and chemical treatments for at least a week.
- Avoid heavy exercise, swimming and saunas for 48 hours.
- Protect your scalp from the sun with a hat.
- If you use minoxidil, ask your pharmacist how long to wait after a session before applying it.
Realistic timelines
Hair grows in slow cycles, so patience is essential:
- Months 1 to 2: a healthier-feeling scalp; little visible change yet.
- Months 3 to 4: some people notice finer new hairs.
- Months 4 to 6: fuller-looking hair becomes more visible in photos.
Take monthly photos in the same light and position to track progress.
Common mistakes
- Going too deep too soon. Start at 0.6mm.
- Microneedling too often. Your scalp needs time to recover.
- Using minoxidil as a glide. Use plain hyaluronic acid instead.
- Giving up after a month. Hair needs at least 3 to 6 months.
Scalp care with Olapen
Olapen's adjustable depth lets you start gently at 0.6mm, and our 24-pin, 36-pin and 42-pin cartridges cover the scalp quickly and evenly. Every cartridge is sterile, individually sealed and single use. Not sure which cartridge to choose? See our cartridge guide.
Frequently asked questions
Does microneedling help thinning hair?
Research is promising, especially when microneedling is combined with scalp products like minoxidil.
How often should I microneedle my scalp?
Every 2 weeks at 0.6mm is a good starting point.
Which cartridge is best for the scalp?
24-pin, 36-pin or 42-pin. Larger heads cover more scalp with fewer passes.
Can I microneedle my scalp without minoxidil?
Some people do, but most research has looked at microneedling combined with scalp products.
Will microneedling make my hair fall out?
Microneedling itself shouldn't, though some people notice temporary shedding when they start minoxidil. Ask your pharmacist if you're concerned.
The bottom line
Scalp microneedling is a promising, easy-to-follow step for fuller-looking hair, especially alongside scalp products. Start at 0.6mm every two weeks, use the right cartridge, follow simple aftercare, and give it at least 3 to 6 months.
Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition. If you have concerns about your hair or scalp, speak to a healthcare professional.