15+ years of physician-led scalp treatment and hair loss care
1000+ non-surgical hair restoration sessions performed in clinic
Enhanced finasteride delivery using sterile microneedling technology
ISHRS standards for evidence-based, non-invasive scalp therapies
Specialized protocols for early-stage male pattern hair loss management

What Is Finasteride Microneedling?

Finasteride microneedling is a medical procedure that involves creating controlled micro-injuries on the scalp using a derma roller or microneedling device. This is followed immediately by the application of compounded topical finasteride. This combination enhances the local delivery of the medication into the dermal layer, where DHT-related hair miniaturization occurs.


The micro-injuries stimulate dermal papilla activity and increase blood circulation, while the topical finasteride specifically targets the hormone responsible for follicle shrinkage. Clinical studies demonstrate that this synergistic approach provides 4 to 5 times more effective hair regrowth compared to the use of topical minoxidil lotion alone.

Who Can Benefit from This Treatment?

Finasteride microneedling is most effective for
  • Patients with early-stage androgenetic alopecia (Norwood I-III) are experiencing male pattern baldness.
  • Those experiencing side effects from oral finasteride are seeking alternative delivery methods.
  • Individuals with adequate hair density seeking to improve hair shaft diameter
  • Younger patients aiming to slow hair recession while maintaining existing hair
  • Candidates planning future hair transplantation or hair surgery seeking to stabilize loss pre-operatively
  • Patients seeking enhanced scalp health through improved blood circulation

Note: This treatment enhances hair growth in areas with existing follicles but cannot regenerate hair in completely bald areas. It serves as an adjunct or maintenance strategy rather than a replacement for hair transplantation in advanced stages.

How Does It Work?

  • Scalp Assessment: The scalp is cleaned and evaluated using hair microscopy indicators to assess current hair density and follicle health
  • Microneedling Application: Sterile derma roller or electronic device creates controlled micro-punctures at 0.5-1.5mm depth to stimulate scalp skin
  • Finasteride Application: Compounded topical finasteride is applied directly to treated zones for enhanced penetration
  • Healing Response: Micro-injuries trigger growth factor release and collagen production, improving scalp density
  • Treatment Schedule: Sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart during the active phase, with progress monitored via clinical photography and self-rating of hair growth

The mechanical stimulation from microneedling combined with finasteride’s DHT-blocking action creates optimal conditions for hair follicle regeneration and improved hair growth patterns.

Safety, Limitations, and What to Expect

Expected Responses

  • Local redness and mild irritation for 12-24 hours is common
  • Temporary scalp tenderness following the procedure
  • No clinical downtime; patients resume normal activities immediately
  • Initial hair shedding may occur as the new growth cycle begins
  • Results are typically visible after 3-6 months of consistent treatment
  • Improved hair shaft diameter and overall scalp density with continued use

Contraindications

  • Active scalp infection, dermatitis, or inflammatory conditions
  • Allergies to finasteride compound components or vehicle base
  • History of finasteride-related sexual side effects (requires physician clearance)
  • Bleeding disorders or concurrent blood-thinning medications
  • Recent hair surgery or transplantation (adequate healing time required)

Note: Treatment may not be effective in areas of total follicular loss. Systemic absorption is significantly reduced but not eliminated entirely.

Can It Be Combined With Other Treatments?

Finasteride microneedling may be combined with:
  • Oral or topical minoxidil: Enhanced absorption when used with microneedling for superior hair growth.
  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): Synergistic growth factor stimulation for improved hair density
  • Hair transplant surgery: As pre- and post-operative maintenance regimen
  • Scalp massage: Improves blood circulation and nutrient delivery to hair follicles
  • Low-level laser therapy: Complementary treatment for follicle stimulation
  • Nutritional supplements: Supporting overall scalp health and hair growth
All combination plans are designed based on clinical suitability, scalp condition, and individual hair growth goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does microneedling enhance finasteride effectiveness?

Microneedling creates microchannels that increase penetration of topical finasteride by 3-5 fold, enhancing local DHT suppression at the dermal papilla level while minimizing systemic side effects associated with oral finasteride.
Clinical studies show significant improvements in scalp density, with patients reporting enhanced hair growth and increased hair shaft diameter. Hair microscopy indicators typically show 30-40% improvement in density after 6 months.
This non-invasive treatment stimulates existing follicles and improves hair density without surgery. While hair transplantation provides immediate redistribution of permanent hair, microneedling with finasteride offers gradual improvement and maintenance of existing hair.
Yes, this treatment specifically targets male pattern baldness by addressing DHT-related miniaturization while stimulating follicular activity through mechanical stimulation and enhanced medication delivery.
Medical-grade derma rollers and electronic microneedling devices with adjustable depth settings (0.5-1.5 mm) are used based on individual scalp characteristics and treatment goals.
Book Your Medical Hair Assessment

Schedule a private consultation at the Canadian Hair Transplant Centre to determine if finasteride microneedling is a suitable treatment option for your specific hair loss pattern. Our assessment includes a trichoscopic evaluation of hair density, a scalp health analysis, and a review of your medical history.


We’ll discuss how this treatment can enhance your hair growth journey, whether as a standalone therapy or combined with other interventions for optimal scalp density and hair restoration outcomes.

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