Derma roller Amazon (aka micro-needling) has become popular amongst beauty vloggers and regular people alike in recent years, thanks to its benefits like skin firming and reduced fine lines and scars. But what is it exactly, and how does it work? The technique involves a tool with needles that puncture the outer layer of the skin, triggering a healing response.

The needles are small and fine, so the resulting punctures or “micro-injuries” aren’t as invasive as they sound. The process is safe for home use and has been used for decades to treat acne, stretch marks, enlarged pores, and even hair loss, though it’s not a substitute for other treatments.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Derma Roller at Home

According to studies, derma-rolling boosts platelet-derived growth factor and blood vessel formation, helping you grow stronger and longer locks. It also activates the stem cells that stimulate the hair follicle bulge, which can help reduce severe alopecia areata and pattern baldness.

It’s important to choose the right derma roller for your needs and skin type. Skotnicki recommends reaching for one that has needles under 0.5 millimeter in length; anything longer is not suitable for at-home use and runs the risk of damaging your skin.

After using your derma roller, cleanse it with an unscented, non-toxic soap and water mix to wash away any protein stains from the skin and blood. Then, disinfect it with 70% isopropyl alcohol and store it in its case to reuse. It’s also recommended to apply a serum after each session. Benjamin suggests using a hydrating or anti-aging product that doesn’t contain retinols, since the treatment can make your skin sensitive to them.