How To Use A Derma-Roller: The Benefits Of Microneedling Your Skin

Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy Your First Derma roller

Chances are you might not be so familiar with derma rolling (or micro needling as it’s often called).

What if we told you that letting hundreds of tiny needles penetrate the surface of your skin could change the way it looks forever!?

But it’s not as weird as it may sound, and in fact, could be the answer to a huge range of skincare concerns you may have been struggling with for a while

We recently heard an unbelievable story of a Neutriherbs customer who permanently got rid of her under eye bags just using a derma roller. And That doesn’t even scratch the surface of what a derma roller could actually do – from acne scars, texture, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, dull skin, stretch marks and even hair loss – derma rollers are the multi-tasking beauty treatment with amazing and overwhelmingly positive benefits that can target everything all without going under the knife.

Just continue reading and you might want to get in on the derma roller action yourself.

Let’s get things rolling, shall we?

What Is Derma-rolling?

Derma-rolling involves the use of micro-needles.  A derma roller is a skincare device used to treat fine lines, acne scars, large pores, and uneven skin tone. The device features a handle and a roller and works by rolling a small wheel that has tons of tiny needles over the face to gently puncture the skin which makes small injuries in the skin as “trauma” which then signals the skin to go into “repair mode” by stimulating collagen and elastin production which eventually causes your skin to get plumper and smoother.

Sounds pretty intense, but it's actually not as scary as you think.

Despite the fact that needles are involved, it’s a lot less painful than you’d think. The thin, short nature of the needles means you’ll barely feel it at all.

Following the treatment, the skin’s absorption is amplified which means your products will work even harder for you. Plus, when used in conjunction with a serum (as it should be), it can significantly boost ingredient absorption.

Why Try a Derma Roller: The benefits of derma rolling 

Derma rolling has many benefits, the main one being collagen and elastin production. This is important because these are the two ‘building blocks’ of healthy skin, resulting in stronger, smoother skin. 

• Evens skin texture and resurfaces top layer of skin

• Helps reduce acne scarring for more even toned skin

• Improves the look of fine lines and wrinkles for firmer tighter skin.

• Helps skincare products absorbs better which mean they get to be more effective

• Reduces the appearance of enlarged pores and sebum regulation

• Helps to break up pigmentation and uneven skin tone 

• Helps fade appearance of stretch marks

Is Derma rolling Good For All Skin Types?

Derma rolling can benefit all skin types, however those with ultra-sensitive skin or active breakouts should be careful. This is because derma rollers could potentially cause more irritation on an already irritated area.

How Do I Choose a Derma roller?

First thing worth considering is quality of the tips and smoothness of the roller, so source from a brand you trust. That said, Neutriherbs’s dermaroller is high quality and has been designed with laser cut tips to ensure quality and precision and has been ergonomically crafted to ensure a smooth roll over the skin plus it’s still quite affordable.

The next thing you have to consider is needle size. We strongly advise only using 0.3 mm or lower, as anything thicker has a higher risk of damaging skin (especially on delicate areas around the eyes and lips). “If you want to do a deeper micro needling treatment with a larger needle size, we recommend going to a professional.

Next consider if the needle steel is stainless or Titanium. Neutriherbs Derma Roller is made of Titanium microneedles. Titanium is a tougher alloy and more durable. As a result, the needles won’t dull as quickly and will last longer.

How To Use A Derma Roller:

Derma rollers are safest when used exactly as instructed. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Get The roller ready

Since you’ll be puncturing your face, you need to ensure the instrument is squeaky clean and sterile. Wash, rinse and dry the derma roller.

Step 2: Prepare your skin

Cleansing is essential.

Prep your skin by cleansing with a gentle pH-balanced cleanser to wash your face. Avoid harsh cleansers or those specially formulated for acne (with active ingredients like Retinol or salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide), which can cause irritation when combined with the derma roller.

Pat your face dry and start rolling.

Step 3: Get rolling

The derma rolling technique takes some practice. Always avoid your eye socket area, which is too delicate to be punctured by needles.

Here’s what to do:

A) Select an area of your face (like the forehead, cheeks, nose or chin) and roll it horizontally 6 to 8 times. Each time you make a “pass” across your face, lift the roller up. Doing so will prevent you from looking like a cat scratched you (yeah… yikes).

B) Now, repeat on the same area, this time, vertically. Roll it, then lift up, 6 to 8 times. apply as much pressure as you can comfortably tolerate.

Repeat steps 1 and 2 on all desired areas and sections of your face. Roll over for no longer than 2 minutes in total. Make sure skin recovers before starting another session.

Take special care on your lips and underneath your eyes, as this skin is especially delicate. Make sure to never apply serum or roll on your eyelids.

Step 4: Wash your face with water

Rinse your face with warm water is best.

Step 5: Apply serum

After rolling, micro-channels in the skin will have been opened up, so it’s the perfect time to treat your skin with serums, followed by moisturizers because the effectiveness would be super maximized at this time.

Avoid serums that contain active ingredients like vitamin c and retinol and chemical exfoliates like AHA or Salicylic Acid because they can cause sensitivity and perhaps irritation. Products that hydrate, heal and boost collagen can reach deeper into your skin and deliver more dramatic results.

We recommend using formulas with Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide, Hemp oil, Peptides, Collagen, Vitamin E. These are the types of ingredients that will really maximize the effects of micro needling to stimulate collagen, speed up cell turnover, hyperpigmentation, smooth out fine lines, firm, plump and hydrate.

Pro tip: Caution should always be exercised when using products immediately after a derma roller treatment as some products are not formulated for introduction past the skin barrier and may cause irritation or an allergic type reaction.

Step 6: Clean your Derma roller

Time to clean this baby. Fill a container with dish soap and warm water and place your derma roller in it. Swish the derma roller around in the mixture to remove dead skin and blood.

Next you want to sanitize your derma roller with alcohol or a sanitizer and store it in its plastic case. Also be sure to replace your derma roller often – at least every 3 months or after using average of 12 times.

 How Long Does It Take To See Results?

Your results will vary based on the unique nature of your skin, how often you use and the length of the needles you use. Here’s what might happen right away:

• skin redness or sensitivity for 30 mins to 2 hours

• a sunburn-like feeling

• minor swelling

• increased blood circulation

Although you might notice some immediate plumping, it will take a few uses before you experience prolonged change. Research suggests that the results of 3 sessions last up to 6 months after stopping treatment.

It may take between two to six months to see much more visible results. As far as repeating the procedure goes, this is really up to you. You can safely use your microneedle as often as a few times a week or once a week or once a month.

 It really depends on what you’re most comfortable with and what kinds of skin issues you’re treating. (If you have a lot of discoloration or fine lines, you may want to use yours more often).

Expert Tips: Do’s and don’t of derma rolling

Derma rolling, when done correctly and hygienically, is safe and can give you some great results. Follow these do’s and don’ts for safe derma rolling at home. 

• Do start slow by using your roller just once a week, to allow your skin time to adjust and heal.  Once you have built tolerance, you can go up to twice or thrice a week.

• Do make sure to always keep your roller clean to avoid the risk of infection. You should replace your derma roller after a few months (depending on how often you use it and how it is looked after). Keep a keen eye out for any signs of damage on your roller and do not use it if you see any. 

• Do resort to this treatment at night when you are not going to be exposed to the sun. If you are going to face sun exposure, use a good sunblock.

• Don’t use active ingredients such as vitamin C or retinol immediately after rolling or while your skin is still feeling sensitive.  and while home rolling it’s essential to use sunscreen during the day and avoid using any products with strong active ingredients immediately afterwards, such as retinol or Vitamin C.

• Don’t use your roller if your skin is irritated or infected, or if you have active acne or rosacea. If signs of irritation appear, rinse skin with water and discontinue use.

• Don’t use your derma roller on eyelids or lips as the skin is too delicate and thin. 

• Don’t share your derma roller. Your roller should be for your use only. 

• Do Include skin repair and rejuvenation ingredients in your post care routine; ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid can come in handy.

• Do Use some skin ice packs to bring down any painful inflammation post the treatment.

SHOP NEUTRIHERBS HIGH QUALITY TITANIUM MICRONEEDLE DERMA ROLLER FOR JUST N5,500

FAQs about Derma roller

1) Are there any side effects of derma rolling?

Similar to any clinical skin treatment, Derma rolling can have side effects as well. However, these side effects can arise from bad practices than the procedure itself. Some of the adverse effects of a Derma rolling session gone wrong are skin irritation, bruising, peeling, bleeding and painful infections.

2) Can I use a vitamin C serum after derma rolling treatment?

Yes, vitamin C is one of the best serums to use. Infused with amazing anti-ageing benefits, it can help enhance the results of the treatment tremendously. However, it is recommended that you wait a couple of days after the session to apply ascorbic acid on your face. Your skin will already be a lot sensitized and the low pH of vitamin C serums can irritate your skin further.

3) Do Derma rollers help tighten skin?

Yes, since Derma rolling boosts collagen and elastin in the skin, it can target loose patches and help tighten saggy skin. The treatment can also be applied to other parts of the body to help tighten it, consult your dermatologist as to which one will be right for you.

4) Can Derma rolling make you break out?

It is often advised to not use derma rollers on active breakouts as it can cause the bacteria to spread out and cause more acne. Do not opt for a derma rolling treatment if you have active lesions on your face. However, the treatment is excellent at dealing with acne scars, but make sure you pick the right time for it, which is after the acne has been healed.

5) What Results Can You Expect From Derma rolling?

This tool helps to remove dull, dead skin cells through exfoliation, leaving the surface of the skin smoother and more refined,” says Stoddard. “It maximizes the effectiveness of the products used with it for visibly refined tone, texture and firmness.

6) Is Derma-rolling Safe For Pregnant And/Or Breastfeeding Women?

While Derma-rolling is generally considered to be safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, however hormonal changes in the body during these times can cause skin to be extra sensitive to caution is recommended.

7) Is There Anything To Know Before Trying Derma-rolling At Home?

Proper storage of your derma-roller is critical to ensure hygiene and prevent bacteria from forming. Most rollers will come with a cap, so ensure this is sealed after each use. This is to protect the micro-exfoliating tips from the wear and tear of everyday use.

8) How often should you use a derma roller? 

For best results, start by using a derma roller once a week and then slowly increase as recommended by your Treatment Provider. Roll for no longer than 2 minutes in total. After rolling, follow with a serum to suit your skin concerns, then moisturizer. Since the needles puncture the skin, your skin needs a break in between treatments to heal and rebuild collagen. So Always make sure your skin is completely recovered before starting another session. The longer the needles, the longer your skin needs to renew.

9) Do you put serums on before or after derma rolling? 

Serums and moisturisers are most effective when used after derma rolling, as microchannels have been opened up and products can absorb better and penetrate deeper into the skin.