If you are conscious about your skin and had tried a couple of beauty products for the type of your skin, you had also probably heard about the derma roller. Derma roller is the manual version of a microneedle. It is a handheld device that has a row of tiny needles. As well as that, derma roller is much more convenient and cheaper than the process of micro-needling. Derma rollers are usually used to improve issues on the skin, such as diminishing fine lines, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.
The difference between the microneedle and the derma roller is that the micro-needling sessions are often done in the dermatologists’ center. In contrast, derma rolling can be done in the comfort of your home. Also, micro-needling is said to produce 400 percent of collagen, which is much higher than the percentage that the derma roller could produce. This is because microneedles allow the skin products to deeply penetrate the skin providing a much visible effect. Nevertheless, both could provide a way to make the beauty products penetrate the skin for a plumper and tighter complexion.
According to dermatologists, if you are new in doing this process, one can start once a week in order to see how your skin will react. If everything happens to be all good, then you can apply the process at least twice to three times a week. However, one might also be wary of using the rollers not exceeding the 2-minute limit each time you use it. For best results, serum was often applied to hydrate the skin. Avoiding make-up for about 24 hours is also advised after each process.
The longer you continue the process, the more likely you’ll see visible results. Usually, the process takes effect after six to twelve weeks of regular usage. But, if you are trying to improve scars and signs of aging, the process will take about months before seeing noticeable changes. Additionally, results vary between the elasticity and age of the skin.
Derma rolling is suitable for all skin types, but those who have sensitive skin must be mindful of how frequently they do the process. Generally, derma rolling is often used to target skin issues like:
- Sunspots or age spots
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Scars (especially acne scars)
- Reduced the elasticity of the skin
- Uneven skin tones
- Large pores
Aside from facial concerns, derma rolling and micro-needling are also often used in treating stretch marks in some areas of the body. In fact, according to the study, the process of micro-needling, combined with fillers, is proven effective for stretch marks found on the abdominal and thigh areas. Although the process of using microneedles is applicable to other body parts, it is initially used for treating facial concerns.
If you are to ask whether this procedure has its risk and side-effect, the answer is simply, Yes. Like any other skincare procedure, there is a potential side-effect when you are using derma rollers. These risks and side-effects usually occur if a person is not properly keeping the rollers clean. Some of the risks that may happen are bruising, skin irritation, peeling, bleeding, and infection.
The best way to avoid such risks is to clean your roller every after each use. Soap and water might not be enough, so be sure to clean it with 70% isopropyl alcohol. You could also soak your rollers in a cup of hot water once a week to further clean them. Replacing the needle of the derma roller is also a great idea to prevent skin irritations caused by dull needles. Most importantly, don’t let other people use your derma roller.
In conclusion, although some dermatologists have reported some benefits of micro-needling, much of these reports came from small studies. In addition to that, if micro-needling has less concrete evidence, much less evidence could be provided for home derma rolling. While this process requires further explorations, it is worth a try if one is looking for a cheaper skincare regimen. On the other hand, if you are hesitant about the process, you could always ask an expert or a dermatologist regarding the matter.