Do Derma Rollers Work?

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The short answer to "Do derma rollers work?" is yes. 

Do they work right away? No.

The derma roller I use.

A few companies had given me the opportunity to try the derma roller, or microneedling roller, and I passed because it looked too crazy; like a gimmick. Then, after reading about it on several reputable websites, I had to check out what the derma roller craze was all about, so I tried out Petunia Skincare's Derma Roller with 540 needles that are 1-milimeter long.

The idea behind this type of product is that it creates micro-lesions. When you skin heals, it will contain more collagen and elastin, which helps reduce the appearance of scars, fine lines, wrinkles, pores and other imperfections.

I've used the Derma Roller for almost a month. It doesn't really hurt when I use it, but it sometimes causes a strange tingling or burning sensation that lasts a couple of seconds. And, yes, there is minimal bleeding involved, but not enough to need a bandage.

So far, I've noticed that my pores are smaller over the areas that I've used it. The fine lines that I'm working on are going to take some more time. One thing that you must consider is that your skin will continue to change over the next couple of months, so the results aren't always immediately apparent. However, if you use it regularly, you will see result. I use mine once or twice a week.

In this video, a dermatologist who explains how derma-rolling works:

Now, don't panic. I don't use anesthetic cream on my face when I use my derma roller, nor does my face bleed as much as this woman's face. When I use the roller, only a couple places on my forehead look like they received pin pricks. The dermatologist is using a roller that has thicker needles on it than the ones generally sold to the public and he is pushing the roller on to the lady's face pretty hard.

How to Use a Derma Roller

1. Wash your face. It's important to remove the dead skin cells, bacteria, oil and other impurities on your face before using a derma roller. I apply the facial cleanser using one of those sonic-type facial brushes. Dry your face after you wash it.
2. Disinfect the derma roller. I spray rubbing alcohol onto my roller. Let the alcohol evaporate. 
3. Roll the derma roller on your skin, working a section at a time. I like to work in small sections instead of large sections and do the follow: 
1. Roll side-to-side 10 times
2. Roll up and down 10 time
3. Roll diagonally to the left 10 times
4. Roll diagonally to the right 10 times
4. Apply toner to your skin. Spritz the toner onto a cotton ball or pad and swipe it over your skin to reduce your pores and (eek) wipe away any blood.
5. Apply a serum to your skin (optional). If you use a vitamin C serum, retino or hyaluronic acid, this is the time to apply it. 
6. Moisturize your skin. Use a deep-moisturizing product. During the day, use a moisturizer with SPF.
7. Disinfect the derma roller again. Yes, again. 

This college-aged (I think) guy, Cory, has a good video about how to prepare your skin and use a derma roller.

In Cory's follow-up video, you can see how well the roller worked for him.

The Best Derma Roller

The derma roller I use is the one that Petunia Skincare sells on Amazon.com. I can't claim that it's the "best" derma roller in existence, but I'm happy with it. The roller is sturdy, the surgical-grad stainless steel needles are sturdy and the roller comes with a sleek case that helps it stay clean.

Please consult with a dermatologist to learn if an at-home derma roller is right for you before using one.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on an Amazon.com link and make a purchase.