Does Derma Roller Work For Hair Regrowth? Microneedling Facts

The most frequently asked question a hair-loss patient asks is: “Does Derma Roller Work For Hair Regrowth?“. Let us learn whether a derma roller works for hair growth and learn all microneedling facts, tips for use, and expert insights on hair loss solutions!

Hair loss can be a distressing experience for both men and women, leading many to seek out innovative solutions for hair regrowth. One method that has gained popularity in recent years is the use of derma rollers, also known as microneedling devices. But does this technique work for stimulating hair growth, or is it just another beauty fad?

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of derma rolling for hair regrowth, exploring the science behind microneedling and its potential benefits for those struggling with thinning hair or baldness. We’ll examine the latest research, expert opinions, and user experiences to uncover the truth about this increasingly popular hair restoration method. Whether you’re considering trying a derma roller yourself or simply curious about the latest trends in hair care, join us as we reveal the facts about microneedling for hair regrowth and help you determine if this could be the solution you’ve been searching for. 

What is a Derma Roller?

A derma roller is a popular at-home treatment for hair loss and acne scar treatment, a small device used for various skin conditions and hair loss issues. It’s a type of microneedling treatment that involves rolling tiny needles over the scalp or skin and hair to stimulate collagen production and improve blood flow.

Do not get scared! Though it looks invasive and scary, the needles are just about 0.25 mm or 0.5 mm deep for the task. It can be safely used at home without any dermatologist consultation.

Many people use derma rollers to treat hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia or hair thinning.

Derma Roller Minoxidil Combination Treatment

A combination of 5% minoxidil with derma roller is a popular treatment for hair loss.

Using a derma roller with minoxidil can enhance the absorption of the medication and potentially improve results.

Some users report success in promoting beard growth or new hair growth with this combination.

However, it’s essential to consult a dermatologist before starting any at-home hair loss treatment, as the effectiveness may vary depending on the type of hair loss and individual factors.

Derma rolling at home typically involves using needles between 0.25 to 0.5 mm in length. The process creates micro-injuries that stimulate the release of growth factors and initiate the body’s natural healing process. While this treatment isn’t a guaranteed solution, many people find it helpful to encourage hair growth and potentially regrow hair.

It’s important to note that dermaroller for hair growth is just one of many treatment options available, and results may vary. 

The Science Behind Microneedling for Hair Growth

How does microneedling stimulate hair follicles?

Rolling tiny needles on your skin induces minute microscopic wounds underneath the skin layers which induces collagen and elastin production.  We will not go into the detailed molecular level on how this happens. But Just remember two things that happen after Microneedling,
a] Neocollagenesis – meaning the production of new collagen tissue under the skin and
b) Neovascularisation – meaning the formation of new blood vessels or capillaries which happens due to the release of growth factors following needle piercing of the stratum corneum layer of the skin.

What does the research say about derma rolling for hair regrowth?

Research suggests that derma roller for hair loss may be an effective treatment for thinning or hair loss. You should start seeing positive results in about 6 months if performed correctly.

DIY home derma rolling: Studies have shown that microneedling works best when combined with minoxidil or other hair growth treatments. The ideal needle length for at-home derma roller use is typically 0.5 mm on the scalp. 

It’s essential to identify what’s causing your hair loss before starting treatment. 

Can microneedling reverse hair loss?

Microneedling has emerged as a potential treatment for hair loss, offering hope to those struggling with thinning hair or baldness. 

Some studies have shown promising results, with participants experiencing increased hair density and thickness after undergoing microneedling treatments.

However, it’s important to note that while microneedling may help improve hair growth in some cases, it is not a guaranteed cure for all types of hair loss.

The effectiveness can vary depending on the underlying cause of hair loss, individual factors, and the treatment protocol used.

For best results, microneedling is often combined with other hair loss treatments, such as minoxidil or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.

What are the Other Medical Uses of Derma Rollers?

Apart from Hair regrowth and baldness treatment, it is primarily used to treat:

Acne scar removal and also for
Facial Rejuvenation and anti-aging treatment
Transdermal drug delivery – like PRP and mesotherapy can be combined with derma rolling.

How to Use Derma Roller for Hair Growth

First of all, you must remember to take some precautions on every use to avoid the chances of infection.

Either use a fresh box-packed derma roller every time or disinfect it by soaking it in 70 percent isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol, Soak it for approximately 10 to 15 minutes before every use. You can also use 6% hydrogen peroxide easily available at your local medical store. It’s a very inexpensive device and costs between 5 to 10 USD. You can purchase it even online from Amazon.

Never use somebody else’s derma roller on yourself. This can transfer infections including HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C, though it’s very rare if safety precautions are followed properly.
Also beware, some cheap quality derma roller needles can break into your skin, not too much to worry if it’s less than 0.5mm.
Wash your face with a mild soap before starting the procedure.
Local anesthetic gel or cream or what you call numbing cream is not required for 0.5mm or less microneedling because it will not cause any pain.
HOW TO USE? Nothing complicated. Just place the device on your receding hairline or bald patch and roll it 6 – 10 times in each direction in different directions, just to make sure you are covering the entire skin for best results. Keep it like – one square inch every time, roll it in a vertical direction 6 to 10 times – like 1 2 3 4 5 6 and then change to horizontal direction and roll again 6 to 10 times 1 2 3 4 5 6 and then optionally repeat in diagonally opposite directions. That’s it. The same derma rollers can be used for acne scar removal or depigmentation on the face. You can additionally apply fresh aloe vera gel or vitamin C serum for much better results.

What are the different types of derma rollers?

Derma rollers are popular skincare tools that come in various needle lengths to address different skin concerns. The most common types include:

1. 0.25mm rollers, which are ideal for enhancing product absorption and gentle exfoliation. These are safe for daily use and perfect for beginners.
2. 0.5mm rollers are suitable for treating fine lines, minor scarring, and hyperpigmentation. They can be used once or twice a week.2. For more intensive treatments. 
3. 0.75mm rollers target deeper skin issues like moderate acne scars and deeper wrinkles. These should be used less frequently, typically every 2-3 weeks.
4. 1.5mm rollers are the most aggressive, designed for professional use or severe skin concerns such as deep acne scars or stretch marks. Due to their intensity, they should only be used once a month and with proper training.

What needle size is best for hair growth?

Derma rollers size is based on its micro needle size ranging from 0.2mm to 3mm depending on what you want to treat. As for removing deeper scars, you may need deeper penetration. Never use deeper needles like 1mm or above without dermatologist consultation. And remember derma-rollers greater than 0.3 mm in length are not approved by the FDA – Food and Drug Administration Department.

For Hair growth to use it on a receding hair line or even to grow a patchy beard, you can use 0.25 mm weekly twice or 0.5mm derma roller weekly once. They come in stainless steel or titanium needles and Titanium needles are more durable.

Potential Risks and Side Effects Of Derma Rollers

• The area may develop redness for a couple of hours or more. That’s completely normal, nothing to panic
• Skin may appear a bit swollen and hot for a few hours.
• If irritation persists, please consult a doctor. Also, do not use it if you have bleeding tendencies.

Combining Derma Rolling with Minoxidil And Other Alopecia Treatments

This is my Magical Treatment for Hair Loss. I have personally used this treatment and seen positive results within 6 months.

Derma Roller combination with 5% Minoxidil has shown great results according to a study.

So what’s the protocol? You use a 0.25 or 0.3mm derma roller weekly once initially then weekly twice along with 5% minoxidil solution. You can apply minoxidil before derma rolling or after derma rolling, It does not really matter. You should see the results in 3 to 6 months. This has also been successfully used in androgenetic alopecia, alopecia aerata and hair loss in women. You can also combine Mesotherapy with anti hair loss solution and PRP – that’s platelet-rich plasma therapy with derma rollers.

What do before and after photos reveal about derma rolling effectiveness?

There is no need for before and after derma-rolling testimonials! As a medical doctor, I have used this combination treatment as discussed above with minoxidil and achieved good results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Derma Roller Work For Hair Regrowth?

A: Yes, derma rollers can be effective for hair regrowth. The process, also known as microneedling, creates tiny punctures in the scalp, which stimulates blood flow and collagen production. This can enhance hair growth and improve the absorption of topical products like hair loss serums. While results may vary, many users report positive outcomes when using a derma roller as part of their hair care routine.

Q: How does microneedling at home compare to professional treatments for hair regrowth?

A: While professional microneedling treatments can be more intense and use longer needles (up to 1.5 mm), at-home derma rolling can still be effective for hair regrowth. Home treatments allow for more frequent sessions and are more cost-effective. However, it’s crucial to use quality derma rollers and follow proper hygiene practices. Professional treatments may yield faster results, but consistent at-home use can also produce significant improvements over time.

Q: Can derma rollers work for beard growth as well?

A: Yes, derma rollers can also stimulate beard growth. The principle is the same as for scalp hair – microneedling can increase blood flow to the facial hair follicles, potentially leading to thicker, fuller beard growth. Many men use derma rollers in conjunction with products like minoxidil to enhance beard growth results.

Q: How often should I use a derma roller for hair regrowth?

A: The frequency of derma roller use depends on the needle length. For hair regrowth, most experts recommend using a 0.25mm twice a week, 0.5mm roller once a week, or a 1.0mm roller every 10-14 days. It’s important not to overuse the derma roller, as this can cause scalp irritation or damage. Always allow your scalp sufficient time to heal between sessions.

Q: Are there any cons or risks associated with using derma rollers for hair growth?

A: While derma rollers can be beneficial, there are some potential risks. Improper use or poor hygiene can lead to infections or scalp damage. Overuse may cause excessive scalp irritation or even temporary hair shedding. In rare cases, aggressive microneedling might cause hair loss instead of promoting growth. It’s crucial to follow instructions carefully and consult with a dermatologist if you have any underlying scalp conditions.

Q: Can derma rollers help with other hair and scalp issues besides regrowth?

A: Yes, derma rollers may help with various hair and scalp issues. They can improve the effectiveness of topical treatments for conditions like alopecia areata or androgenetic alopecia. Microneedling may also help reduce scalp inflammation, improve overall scalp health, and potentially address issues like dandruff or dry scalp by enhancing the absorption of therapeutic products.

Q: How does using a derma roller compare to other hair loss treatments like laser therapy?

A: Derma rollers and laser therapy are both non-invasive treatments for hair loss, but they work differently. Derma rollers physically stimulate the scalp through microneedling, while laser therapy uses light energy to stimulate hair follicles. Both can be effective, and some people combine these treatments for better results. Derma rollers are generally more affordable and can be used at home, whereas laser therapy often requires professional equipment or frequent salon visits.

Video Tutorial On Using Derma Roller

Please watch this video below shows how to use a derma roller for hair regrowth:

Disclaimer: Despite the fact that plasma needling is already being performed in many clinics and practices, the efficacy of this technique has yet to be confirmed in large-scale controlled clinical trials. Use at your own risk! All this information is based on university research studies and references and my personal experience.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3746236/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2918341/
https://www.prime-journal.com/microneedling-and-its-applications-in-dermatology/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plasma_needling
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collagen_induction_therapy