TLDR Microneedling helps reduce hair-pulling and promotes hair regrowth in trichotillomania patients.
This case series explores the use of microneedling as an adjunctive treatment for trichotillomania, a disorder characterized by compulsive hair pulling. Three female patients (ages 15, 30, and 33) with trichotillomania were treated using a dermaroller with 0.5 mm needles and daily topical 5% minoxidil foam. Over 6 to 12 months, all patients reported good adherence and showed significant clinical improvement in hair regrowth, confirmed by trichoscopy. Microneedling not only stimulated hair growth but also mimicked the sensation of hair pulling, potentially satisfying the behavioral urge and acting as a competing response. The study concludes that microneedling is a promising treatment for trichotillomania, though further controlled trials are needed.
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