Microneedling for Cutaneous Manifestations of Autoimmune Disease: A Scoping Review

    April 2026 in “ Cureus ”
    Julia Juriga, Erica Rankin, Melanie Rodriguez, Nabiha T Atiquzzaman, Amanda Morello, Claudia Pedreira, Matthew T McKinley, Kiarra Krulikowski, Dania Ilyas, Daniela Prado Escobar, Lily Tehrani, Shane Williams, Robin J. Jacobs
    From the encyclopedia
    Microneedling →

    technique to create small wounds in skin to activate collagen production and hair growth

    Alopecia Areata →

    autoimmune disorder causing patchy hair loss

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    Studysummary This scoping review reports that microneedling appears to be beneficial as an adjunctive therapy for cutaneous manifestations of autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata and vitiligo, improving outcomes when paired with other treatments, though evidence is limited and further research is needed. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
    This scoping review evaluated microneedling as an adjunctive treatment for autoimmune skin conditions such as alopecia areata, vitiligo, and dermatomyositis. In 14 studies, microneedling enhanced drug absorption and promoted hair regrowth in 290 out of 360 alopecia areata patients, and facilitated repigmentation in 329 vitiligo patients when combined with other therapies. A single case report suggested benefits for dermatomyositis. While microneedling showed promise, the studies were limited by small sample sizes and short durations, indicating a need for further research to determine long-term safety and efficacy.
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