'I tried a micro-needle shampoo (yes, really) and my scalp has never felt fresher.'

If you're into Korean beauty, you've probably seen VT Cosmetics everywhere.

If not, they're the brand behind the viral Reedle Shot serum that went absolutely bonkers on TikTok (if you need a quick revision, you can check out my Reedle review here).

Since then, VT has expanded their range with a bunch of equally innovative products. But their latest release is what really caught my attention.

Enter the VT PDRN Reedle Shot Scalp Shampoo — a microneedling-inspired shampoo that promises to boost scalp health, clear buildup, and help your hair grow stronger and shinier. In short, it's skincare for your scalp.

Here's what happened when I put it to the test.

WATCH: Kelly McCarren shows us her 30-second hair hack. Post continues below.

What are the VT PDRN Reedle Shot Scalp Shampoo benefits?

One of the hero ingredients in this formula is PDRN (yes, the ingredient often sourced from salmon DNA, although this shampoo uses a plant-derived version fortified with Korean Panax Ginseng).

PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide, a repairing compound widely used in skin treatments for its regenerative and healing properties.

The second star of the show is VT's signature Reedle Shot micro-spicules. These are ultra-fine crystallised needles - about 14 times smaller than a single pore - made from hydrolysed sponge.

They don't hurt, but they do remove dead skin cells and create microscopic channels in your scalp, so the nourishing ingredients can sink in more effectively.

The formula is also packed with extras: patented Eucommia Ulmoides Bark extract to soothe, salicylic acid to exfoliate and clear scalp buildup, niacinamide to help reduce hair fall, panthenol to calm and hydrate, glacier water to replenish moisture and Houttuynia Cordata extract to further ease irritation.

Put simply, this shampoo works like a scalp treatment. By clearing away excess oil and product residue, calming sensitivity and improving blood flow, it helps create the ideal environment for healthier, stronger and shinier hair to grow.

Here's what it looks like…

It's like skincare for your scalp. Image: Supplied.

Why is the VT shampoo so good?

Most shampoos are just formulated to cleanse, but VT's shampoo behaves more like a scalp treatment and a cleanser. Think exfoliation and nourishment in one go. There's really nothing else like it on the market.

If you think about it, your scalp is skin (and usually the most neglected part of your beauty routine), so treating it like skincare makes a lot of sense. And a balanced scalp means fewer bad hair days, less greasiness and (hopefully) healthier hair over time.

OK, but how do you use it?

Exactly like your regular shampoo:

1. Thoroughly wet your hair.

2. Massage the shampoo into your scalp all the way down to the ends of your hair for 2–3 minutes.

3. Rinse well and follow with your usual conditioner or hair mask.

While it's safe to use this daily, you probably only need to use it every second wash as it acts like a treatment more than a standard shampoo.

Where can you buy the VT PDRN Reedle Shot Scalp Shampoo?

It's still pretty new in Australia, so only a few retailers have it in stock. Luckily, my go-to shop, Lila Beauty, has just launched it.

A 200g tube will set you back $34.95 (it normally retails for $50), which should last you a few months.

My VT Cosmetics PDRN Reedle Shot Scalp Shampoo review.

I've been a huge fan of VT's products (their OG Reedle Shot serum, face masks and creams are some of my core products), so when I heard there was a shampoo version with one of my favourite ingredients, PDRN, I was all in.

The first question that popped into my mind was: Is it going to feel like microneedling my scalp in the shower, like the serum feels like a million tiny spikes on my face?

The answer… nope. No prickly or tingling sensation at all. Instead, it felt cooling and refreshing, like my scalp was breathing for the first time.

I then followed with my usual conditioner. After the first wash and blow-dry, my entire head felt super clean and cool, kind of like I had just stuck it in a fridge. By day two, my roots looked way less greasy.

I've now used the shampoo four times, and I have to admit there have been some noticeable changes.

Firstly, my scalp feels so much fresher. The itchiness I sometimes get around my hairline (especially in the cooler months) has basically disappeared.

And secondly, I find my hair stays cleaner for longer between washes, which has reduced the number of times I've needed to wash it. I kow my natural hair oils are finally rejoicing.

Obviously, I haven't grown a full new head of hair overnight (I also don't deal with hair loss, so I can't speak from this POV), but my scalp definitely feels healthier, smoother and shinier.

I've already recommended it to my dad, who is prone to dandruff and is experiencing thinning hair, so I'm excited to hear his thoughts in a few months.

Honestly, if you love the idea of skincare for your scalp, or you struggle with buildup, greasiness or flakiness, this is absolutely worth trying. Just don't expect miracle growth in a week — it's about long-term scalp health, so patience and consistency are key.

Feature image: Supplied.

Have you tried any products from VT Cosmetics range? Share your experience in the comments section below.