Complication following treatment with a microneedling technique for a female pattern hair loss: hair dye-induced tattoo-like pigmentation

Anne K. Leroy, Department of Dermatology, Advanced Institute of Trichology–Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Flavia Oliveira-Xavier-de Brito, Department of Dermatology, Advanced Institute of Trichology–Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Rita F. Cortez-de Almeida, Department of Dermatology, Advanced Institute of Trichology–Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Daniel Fernandes-Melo, Department of Dermatology, Advanced Institute of Trichology–Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Microinfusion of drugs into the skin (MMP^®) is a Brazilian microneedling technique that employs professional tattoo devices for the delivery of pharmacological agents in conditions such as female pattern hair loss. We report an unexpected complication in a 44-year-old female patient who underwent hair dyeing 2 days after the procedure and subsequently developed linear pigmentation on the scalp resembling a tattoo. Trichoscopy revealed pigment deposition at the needle entry points, likely resulting from penetration of the hair dye. Although adverse effects of MMP^® are generally mild, this case highlights the importance of counseling patients regarding the use of hair dye following the procedure.

Keywords: Androgenetic alopecia. Microinfusion of drugs into the skin^®. Female pattern hair loss.