Be it growing a beard or maintaining the fullness of hair, it’s something a lot of guys think about. We all know wishing for it does not magically make it happen. Your genetics, hormones, and lifestyle have a say in whether your hair grows or not.
There’s something you can do about it. Science has given us a couple of tools that can make a difference. Minoxidil - a hair growth stimulant, and a derma roller can help you wake up those sleepy hair follicles and improve growth. Lots of people have been trying this combo, and they swear by it.
But many don’t know how to use Minoxidil and derma roller for beard and hair growth. Today our aim is to cover the same. We will also discuss how to stay safe while you are at it. We will cover everything you need to know to see the best possible outcome.
If you have been dealing with hair growth that’s painfully slow, this could be the game changer. So, let’s get started!
What is Minoxidil and How Does it Work?
Once used to treat high blood pressure, Minoxidil is now used to grow more hair. It’s a popular go-to for hair loss, and the FDA has given it the approval.
You might be wondering how this Minoxidil does what it does. It gets the blood flowing better to your scalp and face. It’s about giving your hair roots a good dose of extra oxygen and nutrients it needs. That extra boost helps them get stronger and thicker. Plus, it stretches out the time your hair spends growing, so you lose less hair and give the new hair more time to come in.
When it comes to your beard, Minoxidil does the same. It stimulates those fine, light facial hairs (the vellus hairs) you already have, and turns them into the thicker hairs (the terminal hair). Studies and real-world users show that if you stick with it, you can get a much denser beard.
So, whether you have a beard with some gaps or a receding hairline, Minoxidil is a solid choice for getting healthier and fuller hair and beard. It has a track record. But if you really want to take it up a notch, using a derma roller along with it can boost what Minoxidil can do.
What is a Derma Roller and How Does it Help with Hair Growth?
Derma rollers are a super effective tool to get your hair growing. It’s a little roller with hundreds of tiny needles that make tiny punctures in your skin. It may sound intense, but believe it or not, it’s a pretty controlled thing, called micro-needling, which is completely safe and science-backed.
Here’s how it works:
When you run that roller over your beard or scalp, those tiny punctures kickstart your skin’s natural repair system. Your body starts making more collagen and gets the blood flowing better in that area.
This means more oxygen and nutrients getting to your hair roots. This process wakes up dormant hair follicles and makes the hairs you already have stronger and thicker.
Using a derma roller with Minoxidil helps it soak in better, letting it get deeper into your skin and do its job more effectively. The tiny punctures are like the pathways for the Minoxidil to work its magic. On top of that, if you religiously use the derma roller regularly, you might notice your skin feeling smoother. Plus, your beard will look thicker over time.
So, if you want to fix that patchy beard or thin hair, a derma roller can make all the difference. It’s simple to use and kind on the wallet, too. A tool that you can use at home and does not take a ton of effort.
Step-by-Step Guide: Using Minoxidil and a Derma Roller Together
If you want to get the most out of this combination of Minoxidil and a derma roller, knowing how to use them correctly is key. Here are the steps you may want to follow:
Skin Preparation
First thing’s first. Make sure your scalp or beard is clean. A gentle cleanser may work well in removing those dirt and oil. It’s an essential step that you want to follow to prevent infections. Plus, cleansing ensures smooth absorption of the ingredient. Once done, pat your skin dry with a cotton towel before using the derma roller on your skin.
Using the Roller
A derma roller with needle sizes between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm works best on your scalp and beard. They are good at effectively stimulating dormant hair follicles and that too without causing any irritation.
Be gentle while rolling over the roller on the target area. Go horizontally, vertically, and diagonally. Repeat it 2 to 3 times a week and allow your skin to heal between sessions.
Applying Minoxidil
Once you are done with derma rolling, wait for another 10 to 15 minutes. Now, directly apply Minoxidil to the target area. Let it sit for 3 to 4 hours before rinsing.
Moisturizing and Aftercare
Minoxidil can cause dryness in your skin. A good moisturizer or beard oil can help keep your skin hydrated. Don’t wash the treatment area a few hours after applying Minoxidil.
Consistency and patience are two key things here. If you religiously follow these steps, you will start noticing changes in no time.
Expected Results and Timeline
With any skincare treatment, there’s no escape route to faster results. You have to be patient and consistent to notice improvements. Changes don’t happen overnight. They take time.
You may start seeing visible improvements in 3 to 6 months if you are consistent with the treatment.
Our hair grows in cycles. These cycles are:
● Growth phase, also known as Anagen
● Transition phase or Catagen, and
● Resting or shedding phase or Telogen
What Minoxidil does is that it prolongs the anagen phase, which allows hair to grow thicker and stronger as time goes on.
In the initial days, you may experience shedding. Don't be afraid of it. It’s a sign that weaker hairs are making way for healthier strands.
Real-life users are happy with the progress. They say that their beards and scalps seem thicker than before. Not just them, but scientific studies have shown that Minoxidil does work wonders in hair growth.
All you need is some patience, consistency, and trust in the process. It will not take long to see results.
Common Side Effects and How to Avoid Them
Minoxidil is effective but there might be side effects. You might encounter dryness, itching, or mild irritation in the treated area. It’s quite natural but these are all temporary. Some may even experience hair shedding, which is part of the hair growth cycle. There is nothing to worry about.
There are ways to combat these side effects. For example, if you moisturize your skin daily and avoid applying too much Minoxidil, your skin will be free from irritation. Similarly, if you experience dry skin, apply Minoxidil once a day instead of twice a day. Make sure you wash off the residue after 3 to 4 hours to prevent buildup.
Sometimes, side effects can be severe and they may include redness, swelling, or allergic reactions. If you experience any of these, stop using Minoxidil right away. It’s best to consult a doctor if your skin doesn't respond to the treatment well.
