If you’re noticing hair thinning, shedding, or a decrease in scalp vitality, microneedling may have already appeared on your radar. And for good reason — microneedling has become one of the most researched, effective, and non-invasive options for supporting hair regrowth. And nowadays, combining this well-known treatment with advanced, innvoative exosome therapy has proven to rejuvenate the scalp and support even stronger, thicker hair.
But like any professional treatment, it’s completely normal to hesitate about safety and risks before trying anything new. One of the top questions we get – what exactly are the side effects of microneedling for hair growth?
If you’ve been wondering the same thing, this guide is for you! As a leading day spa in Christchurch NZ, allow our expert team at Lovoir to walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Microneedling for Hair Growth?
Microneedling uses tiny, controlled needles to create micro-channels in the scalp. These channels stimulate the body’s natural healing response — boosting circulation, encouraging collagen production, and improving nutrient delivery to the hair follicles.
At Lovoir, we take this science even further by pairing our Dermapen 4 Microneedling with DP Dermaceuticals EXO-GROW, an exosome-powered serum clinically designed to support follicle activity and strengthen hair at the root.
🔗 Read Microneedling wiith Exosomes To Boost Hair Growth for our comprehensive guide on the benefits, step-by-step process, sessions needed, and many more.
Is Microneedling Safe for the Scalp?
Yes—when performed by trained professionals, microneedling is considered a safe, minimally invasive treatment. It is widely recommended by dermatologists for both men and women dealing with:
- Early hair thinning
- Hormone-related shedding
- Postpartum hair loss
- Age-related decline in hair density
- Poor scalp health
- Follicle weakening
At Lovoir, treatments are performed using strict hygiene protocols, medical-grade devices, and a tailored consultation process to ensure suitability.
📅 Curious if this treatment is right for you? Book a consultation at Lovoir Day Spa Christchurch to have your scalp assessed by our expert therapists.
Common Side Effects of Microneedling for Hair Growth
Most side effects are mild, temporary, and completely normal during the healing phase.
1. Redness on the Scalp
Slight redness or a flushed appearance is expected for 24–48 hours.
2. Mild Tenderness or Sensitivity
Your scalp may feel similar to a mild sunburn. This typically resolves within 1–2 days.
3. Dryness or Flakiness
Microneedling accelerates skin turnover, which may cause temporary dryness.
4. Mild Tightness or Warmth
These are signs of increased blood flow—a positive indication that the treatment is stimulating the scalp.
🪷 Lovoir Tip: Our aesthetician will guide you through customised aftercare to ensure comfort and optimal healing after every session at Lovoir.
Less Common But Possible Side Effects
These are rare but important to know:
1. Pinpoint Bleeding
This can occur during the treatment itself but stops quickly and is part of the normal controlled-injury process.
2. Minor Swelling
Most clients experience little to none, but temporary swelling may occur in sensitive areas.
3. Temporary Increase in Shedding
Known as “shock loss,” this is uncommon and usually resolves as follicles transition into a healthy growth phase.
4. Folliculitis (Small Bumps or Irritation)
Very rare when using professional sterile technique—most cases are linked to at-home needling devices.
At Lovoir, the risk of these reactions is extremely low due to our strict sanitation protocols and use of clinically tested products.
How Long Do Microneedling Side Effects Last?
Most normal reactions resolve in 24–72 hours.
EXO-GROW clients typically experience very minimal downtime because exosomes help calm inflammation and speed up the repair process.
How to Reduce Side Effects After Your Treatment
Your Lovoir therapist will provide a tailored aftercare plan. Typical recommendations include:
✔ Use EXO-GROW Scalp Tonic and Homecare
These are essential for maintaining scalp health between sessions and reducing dryness or irritation.
✔ Avoid heavy styling products for 24–48 hours
Allow the scalp to breathe as it heals.
✔ Avoid direct sun exposure
Wear a hat if outdoors.
✔ Avoid washing your hair for 24 hours
This ensures maximum absorption of your EXO-GROW serum.
✔ Avoid sweating or high-heat activities
Including saunas, steam rooms, and intense workouts.
📅 Want personalised guidance? Book a consultation at our day spa christchurch location and our therapists will curate a full hair-restoration plan for you.
When to Contact a Professional
Seek advice if you experience:
- Redness lasting more than 3 days
- Severe swelling
- Persistent pain
- Signs of infection
- Pus-filled bumps
- Excessive shedding lasting more than 6–8 weeks
These are very uncommon when the treatment is performed in-clinic using sterile technique.
Why EXO-GROW Microneedling at Lovoir Is Safer Than At-Home Devices
At-home dermal rollers often cause:
- Too much pressure
- Uneven needles
- Poor sanitation
- Higher risk of infection
- Skin tearing rather than controlled micro-channels
Lovoir uses the DP Dermapen medical-grade system, combined with exosome technology for faster healing, superior results, and significantly lower risk.
Every session is performed by trained aestheticians following a professional scalp assessment and treatment plan.
🔗 Explore our Microneedling EXO-GROW treatment page here to learn more.
Considering Microneedling for Hair Growth? Visit Lovoir Day Spa Christchurch
Hair thinning can be stressful, but you don’t have to navigate it alone!
At Lovoir, our EXO-GROW Microneedling Christchurch treatments combine advanced exosome science with safe, targeted microneedling to support thicker, healthier, more resilient hair.
Whether you’re experiencing early thinning or want to strengthen your long-term hair health, our expert team is here to help.
Visit us at Lovoir, the award-winning day spa Christchurch locals trust for advanced scalp and skin rejuvenation! We can’t wait to support you on your hair-restoration journey.
Book your skin consultation
Browse our Microneedling for Hair Growth
Got Other Beauty Needs?
We’ve got it all for you! Check out our wide range of beauty treatments at Lovoir Day Spa:
- Advanced skin treatments and facials, like dermaplaning, chemical peels, LED therapy, IPL skin rejuvenation, and more.
- Massage & body treatments from aromatherapy and hot stone to reflexology, pregnancy, and couples massages.
- Beauty salon essentials, like manicure & pedicure, makeup & spraytan, eyebrow & eyelash enhancements, waxing & hair removal, and more.
- Curated spa packages & spa gift vouchers, best for me-time spa days, bridal preps, hens’ parties, or a relaxing escape
When in doubt, just consult our expert aestheticians, and we’ll help recommend the best treatment for your beauty goals. We hope to see you soon!
Visit our Beauty Salon & Day Spa at Lovoir The Crossing:
Explore more of our expert Microneedling guides:
- Ultimate Guide: What Is Microneedling?
- Ultimate Guide: Microneedling with Exosomes
- Can Dermapen Microneedling Be Used On Any Skin Colour?
- Microneedling for Scars
- Microneedling for Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots
- Microneedling for Wrinkles and Aging
- Microneedling for Acne
- What are the Side Effects of Microneedling with Exosomes?
- Nanofusion 101: The Microneedling Alternative for Sensitive Skin
- EXO-GROW Microneedling: The Ultimate Hair Rejuvenation Treatment
