Dermarolling: The Definitive Overview

We are most certainly already acquainted with the dermarolling obsession if we are serious skincare enthusiasts, and we have probably pondered if the frenzy is justified or if this is simply another fleeting beauty fad. Let's begin so that no one is left in the dark regarding what we are discussing at this time. To treat common skin issues like acne scars, dermarolling is rolling a small portable tool covered with tiny needles over the face. Anyone may assume it is extremely unpleasant simply by reading it, especially those who are first exposed to it. Don't worry though; when I first learnt about it, I also thought it was somewhat frightening.

Despite the fact that this cosmetic procedure may sound uncomfortable, there are certain advantages to routinely undergoing it. However, there are a few points we have to understand about dermarolling, from how it varies from microdermabrasion to picking the appropriate tool for our skin issues, before we go ahead and produce small punctures in our skin.

The Advantages of Dermarolling

Skin regeneration, age spots, wrinkles, enlarged pores, acne scarring are the key advantages of dermarolling. The little holes that are caused in the skin urge the body to increase the flow of blood to our faces and the synthesis of collagen. This promotes the growth of new skin cells, which in turn aids in the healing of blemishes. The increased collagen production can also aid in the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines if our skin is older and less supple.

What distinguishes dermarolling from microneedling?

According to Healthline, the term "dermarolling" refers to a DIY version of the technique that results in far less stress to the skin than "microneedling," a procedure carried out by medical experts that produces some minor trauma to the skin. The size of the needles and the tools used are also contributing factors. Because rollers are secure, simple to use, and incapable of penetrating deeply into the skin, they are frequently used as at-home tools. Because of this, at-home rollers work better to cure hyperpigmentation than acne scars. Pens are commonly used in professional treatments.

The inexpensive cost of dermarolling is one factor that makes it a particularly appealing skincare procedure. The cost of treatments with comparable outcomes is significantly higher. Since more than one session is often needed with all skin treatments to get the desired results, the price tag can add up quickly. We will be saving a considerable amount of money if we take good care of these tools, which may last up to eight months.

Safe dermaroller use recommendations

While we are prepared to try dermarolling, we must first be aware of what to consider when making a device selection. We'll want to choose a dermaroller that will address our unique skin issues because not all dermarollers are made equally. It's the needles that have power. To resolve some skin issues more than others, deeper penetration is required. If wrinkles, fine lines, or huge pores are our primary concerns, dermatologists advise choosing 0.25mm to 0.5mm needles. A 1mm needle will do the trick if we want to lessen the visibility of light marks we have from breakouts, surgical treatments, chicken pox, or even age spots.

Dermatologists advise using a 1.5mm needle for deeper acne scar penetration since these scars need to be treated more thoroughly. Although dermarollers with these needles have a caution sign, using one with 1.5mm needles is not advised until we are accustomed to using one. In reality, visiting a doctor is our greatest option if our skin issues call for needles longer than 1mm.

The most crucial thing we must do before a dermarolling session is to clean our face and check it for any open wounds, symptoms of infection, or rashes after selecting the right roller for our skin that will target our skin issue. If any of these circumstances exist, we must refrain from dermarolling until the problem has resolved. 

Additionally, Healthline advises thoroughly sterilizing the dermaroller by immersing it in 70% isopropyl alcohol. Allow it to settle for five to ten minutes. We should also clean our face with 70% isopropyl alcohol and use some numbing cream before exposing our skin to the needles, especially if the needles are longer than 1.0 mm (but it's highly advise to see a professional if it's more that 1.0mm). The dermarolling can start when we've rinsed the numbing cream off. Then, using a method akin to applying moisturizer, one should begin at the bottom of the face and work their way slowly upward. Steer clear of any practice that amplifies the impact of gravity. To reduce possible future skin wrinkling, pull upwards rather than downwards. After that, we should wash our faces with water and clean and sanitize our dermarollers so they are prepared for usage during our subsequent session. Lastly, perform a light skincare routine.

What should we do following dermarolling?

Dermarolling can give us the radiant skin we seek, but Healthline says we won't benefit from it unless we have a strong followup regimen. To avoid any blistering, darkening, or hyperpigmentation, we must first make sure we are wearing sunscreen. Avoiding the sun completely would be the best approach to take. Following dermarolling, the skincare routine we adopt should be in line with the skin conditions we're attempting to treat. Niacinamide is one of the mild serums that we might use. Applying some cold compress to our skin might allow our face to calm down if it appears inflamed following the procedure.

Healthline also cautions against using some serums with dermarolling since they may result with unpleasant side effects. Vitamin C and retinol, two tried-and-true ingredients, are not advised since they may irritate the skin. Additionally, we have to avoid skincare products that include BHAs and AHAs. After dermarolling, using an oil-based serum can help keep the skin hydrated and provide the radiance we all desire.

What more do we need to know about dermarolling?

The effects of dermarolling take time to manifest, like with most face treatments. In actuality, we won't see changes to our skin for a few weeks. Therefore, we're putting ourselves up for failure if we expect to have glowing skin after only one session. Each skin type will respond to dermarolling uniquely, and the outcomes will also rely on the type of roller we use and how frequently we take dermarolling, so we should be aware that everyone's experience with the length of time it takes to see results will vary. Within two to six months, we should start to notice benefits, but certain skin conditions respond to dermarolling more slowly than others.

We shouldn't be trying to find dermarollers on sale while purchasing them. We'll come across rollers that sell for less money while some cost more while discussing the price range of dermarollers. The materials the roller is constructed of are the most crucial thing to think about, even if it could be a good idea to avoid the cheapest ones. It's crucial to shop around and choose a roller with actual needles rather than metal spikes. 

Although dermarolling may appear like a wonder treatment, not everyone should use it. To begin with, specialists advise against beginning this medication at a young age. People in their 20s often aren't given that advice unless they have a specific skin problem that justifies it, like acne scars that may benefit from needling. Dermarolling is also not advised for those with extremely thin, older skin, on the other hand. Additionally, dermarolling should be avoided if we have any skin issues, such as sunburn, wounds, or scratches on our face. If we are currently experiencing a breakout or an acne flare-up, we should also refrain from it since the procedure may spread bacteria throughout our faces, resulting in further breakouts.

We should also avoid this treatment if we have any inflammatory conditions or infections. Needling may not be an appropriate option for those who have diabetes, psoriasis, eczema, or autoimmune illnesses.

Is dermarolling painful?

This procedure shouldn't hurt at all. The dermaroller's needles aren't long enough to penetrate the deeper, more delicate layers of the skin because it is made for home use. Although this may provide an answer to this query, it's important to keep in mind that everyone has a different threshold for pain, so it may be painful for some people but not for others.

We may be tempted to jump right in if dermarolling seems like the answer to all of our skin problems, but before we do, make sure we understand and read more information about it to ensure that we have thorough grasp of this treatment before we perform it to our skin. Since our skin is the first line of defense for our body, we should always take great care when deciding what we do to it.

*Resources: Healthline