Dermarolling may sound like a scary procedure because it involves dozens of tiny needles, but it is considered a minimally invasive treatment and an affective way of stimulating our skin so that it appears firm, plump and feels soft and smooth.
What is dermarolling?
Dermarolling is a form of microneedling that can be performed at home using a handheld device that has rows of tiny needles all around it. It works by pricking the skin, creating tiny microscopic wounds that induce collagen and elastin production.
Benefits of Dermarolling:
The main goal of dermarolling is to increase the amount of collagen being produced. Collagen in the most abundant protein found within our body and is responsible for holding together various connective tissues. This can range from skin, muscles, tendons, cartilage and bones. Factors such as ageing and UV damage can decrease the amount of collagen made and cause issues with your skin. Dermarolling can help with the following skin problems:
- Wrinkles
- Stretch marks
- Acne scarring
- Skin discolouration
- Increasing skin thickness
- Rejuvenating the overall appearance of your skin
- Boosting product absorption
What size dermaroller is best for me?
If dermarolling at home, it is recommended that you roll around 2-3 times a week if your needle length is 0.1mm or under, but anything larger than this should only be performed once a week. You can safely roll up to a needle length of 0.25mm, but anything bigger than this should be delivered by a licensed professional.
It is vital to the reparation of your skin that you allow enough time between each dermarolling session for your skin to heal. Rebuilding collagen is a slow process and shouldn’t be rushed, or it can result in permanent damage such as scarring.
Cleaning your derma roller tool & face
When dermarolling, it is important that you begin by thoroughly disinfecting your roller to remove any bacteria or dirt by using 70% isopropyl and letting it soak for around 5-10 minutes. When you are finished using your derma roller, it is recommended you first clean it with unscented detergent as this breakdowns proteins found in the skin and blood and then use the 70% isopropyl.
You should also wash your face with a pH balanced gentle cleanser that contains no alcohol or fragrances so that your face isn’t irritated before you begin rolling. This applies to both at home derma rolling and if you are getting a session done professionally.
You may need to apply numbing cream if you are receiving treatment with larger needles (above 0.5mm) but this should be completely wiped off the area that is being derma rolled when it’s effects set in. No other creams or oils should be applied after washing and cleansing your face.
Rolling on the skin
When derma rolling, it’s important that you roll in one direction and also not roll back and forth, as this can cause ‘tram track’ scarring. You should lift between each roll instead and first roll vertically around 4–6 times and then alternate and roll horizontally for 4–6 times again. You should never roll diagonally as this can damage the skin.
Aftercare
After you have finished derma rolling, your skin will be extremely delicate and sensitive. You should try and avoid the following:
- Harsh skincare – Any skincare products such as retinols, AHA’s or active ingredients like salicylic acid should be avoided as they can irritate the skin.
- Sun & SPF – Ultraviolet rays from the sun can harm your skin during its healing process, and you should also avoid applying any SPF as they contain comedogenic ingredients that will have a higher probability of entering into the skin, resulting in issues such as breakouts.
- Makeup – Makeup also contains comedogenic ingredients alongside other harsh chemical ingredients that you do not want entering through your pores. The fresh tiny wounds on your skin may be big enough for brush bristles to penetrate, and these carry bacteria that could cause infections.
- Exercise – You should avoid any exercise for at least 48 hours after derma rolling as when you sweat, your pores open up which could cause your freshly punctured skin to open up too, resulting in an infection from the sweat and dirt.
Side effects
Some side effects are expected after derma rolling, but most of them subside after 24–48 hours. These are:
- Bleeding
- Redness (for a few hours)
- A pulsating sensation in the face
- Initial swelling
- Sunburn-like feeling
