The Fast Facts

  • Dermarollers are devices that may stimulate hair growth.
  • These products have microneedles that prick the skin and are thought to help hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp.
  • There is currently little scientific evidence for the effectiveness and safety of at-home microneedling.

This article describes what dermarollers are, how they are thought to work, and safety concerns.

Microneedling is a type of treatment that uses hundreds of small needles that cause micro-injuries to the skin and scalp.

Some people may use this treatment to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) notes that it may also help encourage hair growth.

However, the AAD warns that microneedling may worsen some conditions, and a person should contact a dermatologist for advice before purchasing any products.

Dermarollers work by causing micro-injuries to the skin without significantly damaging the skin barrier. These micro-injuries heal quickly, leading to stimulation of collagen and elastin fiber production, which can improve the appearance of the skin.

These products may also help improve how medication reaches the skin, as micro-injuries allow medications to penetrate the skin barrier more easily.

There is some evidence that dermarollers can benefit hair growth. Most studies investigate the effects of microneedling alongside another therapy, such as minoxidil, and there is not enough research evaluating the use of dermarollers on their own for hair loss.

A 2021 review found that microneedling may be more effective at increasing hair growth than minoxidil. However, using minoxidil and microneedling together was more effective than microneedling alone.

Another review suggests that some healthcare professionals may recommend using dermarollers alongside minoxidil or other hair loss treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or topical triamcinolone acetonide.

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) says the following on microneedling devices for hair loss: “While clinical studies may be going on, the FDA has not cleared any microneedling devices for [at-home] use.” This means that no derma rollers are currently approved by the FDA for home use.

The FDA has also not reviewed the “safety or effectiveness of combining microneedling devices with other products.”

However, devices are available to purchase for use at home. This should only be done at the recommendation of a dermatologist or another healthcare professional.

Dermatologists usually recommend microneedling in a clinical setting. However, they may also recommend microneedling using dermarollers at home in certain circumstances.

People should avoid using dermarollers or undergoing microneedling therapy if they have any of the following:

People may also wish to avoid dermarollers if they currently have sunburn or sensitive skin.

When choosing a dermaroller, consider the following factors, such as:

  • Dermatologist recommendations: A dermatologist should recommend certain dermarollers to suit an individual’s requirements, such as ones with different needle sizes. However, some dermatologists may not recommend dermaroller for home use.
  • Features: Some dermarollers have features to make them easier to use, such as an anti-slip design for stability and control.
  • Instructions: It is a good idea to purchase dermarollers that come with clear instructions on how to use the device.

People should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a dermaroller. However, some general tips include:

  • sterilizing the dermaroller
  • cleaning the scalp and ensuring it is dry
  • using the device on the scalp horizontally, vertically, and diagonally
  • applying any medication that a dermatologist recommends, such as minoxidil, on the scalp.
  • sterilizing the dermaroller and leaving it to dry
  • placing the dermaroller into its container.

People concerned about hair thinning or hair loss might consider contacting a board certified dermatologist.

The AAD states that dermatologists will ask questions about hair loss or hair thinning, test the strength of the remaining hair, and look at the scalp and nails to determine the cause of the hair loss. Dermatologists may also order tests that may help diagnose why a person’s hair is thinning.

Dermatologists can work with a person to determine which treatments are necessary. They may recommend at-home treatments, prescription medications, or procedures that require healthcare professionals, such as corticosteroid injections or hair transplants.

An older study found that a dermaroller with 1.5 mm needles effectively promoted hair growth in combination with triamcinolone acetonide.

However, most dermarollers available online have 0.25-0.5 mm needles. A person should contact a dermatologist to find the best needle length for their requirements.

Most manufacturers recommend using a dermaroller one or two times a week.

However, a person should decide how often to use a dermaroller with the help of a dermatologist.

The cost of a dermaroller can vary depending on the length of the needle and any additional features the device has, such as additional heads and instruction manuals.

However, most dermarollers cost around $10–20.

Dermarollers are devices with hundreds of tiny needles that cause micro-injuries, which may help encourage hair growth.

People should always only use dermarollers with the advice of a dermatologist. Dermatologists may recommend treating hair loss and hair thinning with a combination of therapies, including dermarollers and corticosteroid injections.