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Health

What Is a Derma Roller, and How Does It Work?

8 min read 2023 Apr 24
Written by Moerie Team
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Who doesn’t love a good beauty tool that promises to deliver smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin? That’s exactly what derma rollers are all about! In recent years, these gadgets have taken over the beauty world, becoming increasingly popular with both men and women. Originally only found in clinical settings, microneedle rollers are now readily available for at-home use, giving people a chance to achieve healthy-looking skin from the comfort of their own homes.

While rollers are most commonly used on the face to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scarred acne spots, they’re also used on other parts of the body, such as the scalp

Who knew that a small, handheld tool with tiny needles could have such a huge impact on the health of our skin and hair?

In this article, we’re going to delve deeper into the world of microneedle rollers, exploring what they are, how they work, and their potential benefits. From traditional derma rollers to electric rollers with vibrating functions, there’s a variety of options to choose from. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the wonders of derma rolling!

What Is a Derma Roller?

A derma roller, also known as a micro-needling device, is a handheld tool used to puncture the skin with tiny needles. These needles create small channels or micro-injuries in the surface layer of the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing response and creating an opportunity to stimulate collagen production.

Microneedle rollers come in different sizes and needle lengths, ranging from 0.2mm to 3.0mm in length. The smaller sizes, such as 0.2–0.5mm, are typically used on the face and other delicate areas of the skin, while longer needle lengths are used on the body, such as the abdomen or thighs. The needle lengths for scalp treatment range from 0.25mm to 1.5mm.

There are also different types of microneedle rollers, including traditional rollers, stamp-type rollers, and electric rollers. Traditional ones have a roller with needles attached to it, while stamp-type rollers have a stamp-like design with needles protruding from the bottom. Electric rollers have a motor that drives the needles up and down, creating micro-injuries at a higher frequency.

In addition to varying needle lengths and types, rollers can also be made from different materials, such as stainless steel or titanium needles. Some microneedle rollers may also include additional features, such as LED lights or vibrating functions, to enhance the treatment.

It’s important to use a derma roller that’s appropriate for your skin tone, type, and concerns. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional before using a microneedle roller.

How Do Microneedle Rollers Work?

Derma rolling works by creating micro-injuries or small punctures in the skin’s surface layer using a roller with tiny needles attached to it. When the needles puncture the skin, they trigger the body’s natural healing response, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, two essential proteins that help keep the skin looking youthful, firm, and smooth.

Collagen is responsible for keeping the skin plump and firm, while elastin provides the skin with its elasticity and helps it snap back into place after being stretched. By stimulating the production of these proteins, microneedle rollers help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scarring, while also improving overall texture and tone.

The micro-injuries created by derma rolling also increase blood flow to the treated area, which can aid in the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen. This can help to nourish and improve skin tone, giving it a healthy glow and youthful appearance.

When used on the scalp, derma rolling can also stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles, which may stimulate hair growth. By creating micro-injuries in the scalp, derma rolling can increase the absorption of topical hair growth products, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the scalp and deliver their active ingredients more effectively.

It’s important to note that while derma rolling can be a beneficial addition to a skincare or haircare routine, the device should be used with caution and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Overuse or improper use of microneedle rolling can lead to irritation, infection, or other issues. It’s also essential to use a derma roller that is clean and properly sterilized to prevent the spread of bacteria.

The Benefits of Using Derma Rollers

Stimulates collagen and elastin production

Derma rolling creates micro-injuries that stimulate the body’s natural healing response, triggering collagen and elastin production. These two proteins help to keep the skin looking youthful, firm, and smooth.

Reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars

By stimulating collagen and elastin production, microneedle rolling can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scarring. The increased blood flow to the treated area can help to plump up the skin, making it look more youthful!

Improves skin texture and tone

Microneedle rollers can improve the texture and tone of the skin by promoting cell turnover and encouraging the production of new, healthy skin cells. This can give the skin a healthy glow and a smoother appearance.

Enhances the absorption of skincare products

Microneedle rollers can enhance the absorption of skincare products by creating microchannels in the skin. This allows topical products to penetrate deeper into the skin and deliver their active ingredients more effectively.

May promote hair growth on the scalp

Derma rolling can be used on the scalp to promote hair growth. By creating micro-injuries in the scalp, microneedle rolling can increase blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth. It can also help to increase the absorption of growth products, used both on the scalp and on the beard for beard growth.

Easy-to-use and inexpensive

Derma rolling is a cost-effective alternative to costly spa treatments like micro-needling. At-home derma rollers can be used anywhere and can save time and money in the long run, making it an affordable cosmetic procedure.

Suitable for all skin types and tones

Microneedle rollers are suitable for all skin types and tones, making them a versatile tool for anyone looking to improve the health and appearance of their skin. However, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist if you have any underlying skin conditions or concerns.

Stimulates blood flow

Derma rolling can increase blood flow to the treated area, which can help to nourish the skin cells and promote overall skin health by repairing and renewing old cells. 

Which Derma Roller Is Right for You?

Choosing the right microneedle roller can make all the difference in achieving your skincare goals. When deciding on a derma roller, there are a few factors to consider – it’s important to choose one with the appropriate needle length for your skin concerns. 

Needle length

For example, if you’re looking to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, a roller with smaller needles (0.25–0.5 mm) may be more suitable, while bigger needles (1.5–2.0mm) may be better for deeper scars and stretch marks. 

Material

It’s important to choose a high-quality microneedle roller made with durable materials like titanium or stainless steel needles.

Shape

Look for a roller with a comfortable handle and a secure mechanism to prevent the needles from bending or breaking. Also, make sure to choose a roller that’s easy to clean and sterilize to prevent the spread of bacteria. 

By considering these factors, you can choose a derma roller that’s safe and effective for your unique skin concerns. As always, it’s recommended to consult with a dermatologist before starting any new skincare regimen.

How to Get the Most Out of Derma Roller Use

In addition to selecting the right needle length and preparing the scalp, there are a few other tips to keep in mind when using a derma roller for growing your hair:

Be patient. It may take several weeks or even months of regular use to see noticeable results, so it’s important to stick with your routine. 

Use with caution. Avoid derma rolling on areas of the scalp that are irritated, inflamed, or have open wounds or active acne, as this can increase the risk of infection. Also, make sure you can use derma rollers if you have any serious skin conditions by consulting a doctor.

Keep it clean. Finally, it’s important to store the derma roller in a clean, dry place to prevent bacteria or mold growth. 

By following these tips and using the derma roller safely and effectively, you can potentially improve the appearance of thinning hair or promote healthy growth. It’s recommended to consult a dermatologist or other healthcare professional before starting any new hair care regimen.

Matching Your Derma Roller to Your Hair Care Routine

Matching your derma roller to your hair care routine can be a game-changer when it comes to achieving the best results. While derma rolling for hair growth can be effective on its own, incorporating the right products and treatments can help to maximize your results. 

Using hair products containing ingredients like biotin, caffeine, and keratin can provide additional nourishment to your hair and scalp while avoiding harsh chemicals, and heat styling can help to prevent damage and breakage. 

One great option to consider is Moerié’s Ultimate Growth Set, which includes a shampoo, conditioner, hair mask, and hair spray, all formulated with natural essential oils, amino acids, and biotin to promote healthy hair growth. 

By combining the benefits of derma rolling with a comprehensive hair care routine, you can potentially see faster and more dramatic improvements in the appearance and health of your hair. 

Conclusion

Let’s give a round of applause to derma rollers for their potential to promote healthy hair growth and youthful skin! 

Finding the right derma roller for your needs is just the beginning. Using it safely and consistently is essential and incorporates a comprehensive hair care routine for the best results. And if you’re looking for a little boost in your hair growth journey, try Moerie’s Ultimate Growth Set. Natural ingredients like essential oils, biotin, and amino acids are a fantastic complement to your derma rolling routine. 

So go ahead and roll your way to luscious locks and glowing skin! Just remember to always prioritize safety and self-care by consulting with a healthcare professional about the updates in your routine. 

References: 
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