For over 30 years, microneedling therapy has helped millions of people around the world achieving sustainable hair growth. But how to use dermaroller for hair loss plays a substantial role in achieving these long-term results.
Below, Dr. Sekran Aygin Clinic’s team dwells into what dermarolling exactly is, how it is applied, and how to achieve the most noticeable transformation.
What is a Dermaroller?
Adermarolleris a device which consists of hundreds of microneedles. When rolled over the scalp, these microneedles create tiny micro-injuries which trigger the body’snatural healing process. Dermaroller for hair growth works by increasing blood flow and promoting new cell growth.
In medical terms, micro-injuries stimulatecollagen production. When used on thescalp, a dermaroller can be a game-changer againsthair loss and thinning. It helpsreactivate dormant hair folliclesand makes hair growth products likeminoxidil, peptides, or natural oils, much more effective.
How Does a Dermaroller Work for Hair Loss?
Dermarolling for hair growth is a type ofmicroneedling therapy. This method has been widely studied toregenerate tissue and improve follicular health. When used correctly, a dermaroller can:
✅Increase blood flow to the scalp, delivering oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles.
✅Boost collagen production, strengthening hair follicles and improving scalp health.
✅Enhance product absorption, making treatments likeminoxidil, rosemary oil, or caffeine-based serumsmore effective.
✅Reduce dermatitis or inflammation, which is often a factor in alopecia.
Studies have shown that microneedling—when combined with hair growth treatments—can lead tosignificantly better resultscompared to using hair growth products alone.
How to Use Dermaroller for Hair Growth
You’re wondering how to use adermaroller for hair loss, and you’re right. Proper technique and frequency are key to:
- Achieve noticeable hair regrowth
- Avoid potential side effects.
Below, you’ll find astep-by-step guide, followed by a section on how tocombine dermarolling with hair growth productsfor maximum results.
1. Preparing Your Scalp Before Dermarolling
To minimize the risk of irritation or infection,proper scalp hygieneis essential before using a dermaroller.
- Wash your hairwith a gentle, sulfate-free hair shampoo to remove oil, dirt, and product buildup.
- Dry your hair and scalp completelybefore using the dermaroller. Wet skin is more sensitive and prone to irritation.
- Sanitize your dermarollerby soaking it in70% isopropyl alcoholfor 5-10 minutes. This kills bacteria and prevents infections.
- Disinfect your handsto avoid transferring bacteria to your scalp.
2. How to Apply the Dermaroller on the Scalp
When using adermaroller for hair growth, technique matters. Here is how to maximize scalp stimulation without over-irritation:
- Start at the front hairlineand roll the dermarollerbackwards toward the crown.
- Divide your scalp into sections (e.g.,left side, right side, back, crown) and roll each section separately.
- Rollin four different directions:
- Vertically(front to back)
- Horizontally(side to side)
- Diagonally (left to right)
- Diagonally (right to left)
- Applygentle pressure—enough to feel slight discomfort but not pain. Donot press too hard, as this can cause unnecessary trauma.
- Roll each area5-10 timesbefore moving to the next section.
3. How Often Should You Use a Dermaroller for Hair Growth?
The frequency ofdermarolling for hair growthdepends on theneedle size (see below for detailed info):
Needle Length | Frequency |
0.25 mm | Every other day |
0.5 mm | 2-3 times per week |
1.0 mm | Once per week |
1.5 mm | Once every 10-14 days |
⚠️Avoid overusing the dermaroller.Your scalp needs time to heal and regenerate new cells. Using it too often can lead toinflammation and potential hair follicle damage.
4. AftercareMatters
After rolling, your scalp is in ahighly absorbent state, makingpost-treatment carecritical for preventing irritation and maximizing hair growth.
✅What to Do After Dermarolling:
✔️Sanitize your dermarollerby soaking it in70% isopropyl alcoholfor 5-10 minutes.
✔️Avoid touching your scalpwith dirty hands for at least a few hours.
✔️Wait at least 24 hours before applying harsh hair productslikeshampoo, conditioner, or styling gels.
✔️Use a clean pillowcaseto prevent bacteria from irritating your scalp overnight.
❌What to Avoid After Dermarolling:
🚫Alcohol-Based Products→ Can cause severe dryness and irritation.
🚫Harsh Shampoos (Sulfates & Parabens)→ Can strip the scalp and delay healing.
🚫High-Dose Retinol or Acids (AHA/BHA)→ Can make the scalp overly sensitive.
🚫Excessive Heat (Hair Dryers, Saunas, Sun Exposure)→ Can worsen irritation.
Where Can Dermarolling Be Applied?
Bear in mind, Dermarolling isn’t just forhair loss—it’s aversatile treatmentthat can be applied to different areas of the body to addressvarious skin and hair concerns.
- Scalp: Thescalpis one of the most popular areas for dermarolling because itstimulates hair growth.
- Face: Dermarolling is widely used inskincarefor its ability toboost collagen production, reducefine lines, andimprove skin texture.
- Beard: Just like on the scalp, dermarolling thebeard areastimulates thicker growth.
- Stretch Marks & Cellulite: Dermarolling is one of the fewat-home treatmentsthat can improve the appearance ofstretch marks and cellulite.
Benefits & Limitations
As we have seen, dermarolling for hair loss displays a wide array of beneficial effects, which include 3 main advantages:
✔Stimulates Hair Growth
✔Boosts Collagen Production
✔Cost-Effective & Non-Invasive
However, dermarolling also has limitations that should be closely considered:
❌Results Take Time– and require use over months.
❌It has potential Side Effects– with improper technique or excessive rolling.
❌It’s not Effective for Severe Baldness– completely bald areas might require a hair transplant.
Dermarolling Before & After
Dermarolling forhair growth takes time, butconsistent useyields visible improvements.
- Week 1-2:Mild redness, tingling, and slight shedding (a normal part of the renewal process).
- Month 1-2:Increased scalp circulation, slight thickening of existing hair, and improved skin texture.
- Month 3-4:Noticeable reduction in hair shedding, new baby hairs appear, skin looks smoother and firmer.
- Month 5-6:Significant improvement inhair density, stronger strands, and reduced bald patches.
Dermaroller & Hair Growth Products to Achieve the Best Results
The micro-injuries created by the dermaroller allowactive ingredients to penetrate deeperinto the scalp, making treatments likeminoxidil, natural oils, and peptidessignificantly more effective.
However,not all hair growth products are safe. Below, we’ll cover how to apply the best treatments correctly, and what to avoid.
1. Minoxidil (Rogaine) – The Medical Alternative
Minoxidil is one of the most studied and FDA-approved treatments forandrogenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness).
How to Use It with a Dermaroller:
✔️Wait at least 12-24 hoursafter rolling
✔️ Apply1 ml of minoxidil solutiondirectly to the scalp and gently massage it in.
✔️ Usetwice daily (morning & night)on non-dermarolling days.
⚠️ Important Warning:
- Do NOT apply minoxidil immediately after dermarollingif you’re using a1.0 mm or longerneedle. It may causesevere irritation, burning, and excessive absorption.
2. Rosemary Oil – The Natural Alternative
Studies show thatrosemary oilisas effective as minoxidilin promoting hair growth but withfewer side effects.
How to Use It with a Dermaroller:
✔️Wait 6-12 hours after dermarollingbefore applying rosemary oil.
✔️ Mixa few dropsofpure rosemary oilwith acarrier oil(e.g., jojoba or castor oil) and massage into the scalp.
✔️ Usedaily or at least 3-4 times a weekfor best results.
3. Caffeine-Based Serums
Caffeine is aDHT blockerthatstimulates blood flow to hair follicles, prolonging thegrowth phaseand reducing hair thinning.
How to Use It with a Dermaroller:
✔️Apply immediately after dermarolling
✔️ Gently massage afew dropsof caffeine serum into the scalp.
✔️ Useonce daily, preferably in the morning.
4. Peptide-Based Serums (Copper Peptides & Redensyl)
Peptides likecopper peptides, Redensyl, and Procapilare cutting-edge ingredients that:
✅Stimulate stem cellsin hair follicles for regrowth.
✅Increase blood circulationand provide nutrients for stronger hair.
✅Reduce scalp inflammation, helping hair grow in a healthy environment.
How to Use Them with a Dermaroller:
✔️Apply immediately after rolling—peptides are safe and non-irritating.
✔️ Useonce daily(morning or night).
✔️ Best used in combination withminoxidil or natural oilsforenhanced effects.
⚠️ Avoid synthetic peptidesthat contain harsh preservatives, as they can cause scalp irritation.
An Optimal Dermarolling & Hair Growth Routine
To maximize results, follow thisweekly schedule:
Day | Routine |
Monday | Dermarolling (1.0 mm) + Peptides/Hylauronic Acid |
Tuesday | Minoxidil / Rosemary Oil + Caffeine Serum |
Wednesday | Rest day (scalp recovery) |
Thursday | Minoxidil / Rosemary Oil + Peptides |
Friday | Dermarolling (0.5 mm) + Peptides/Hyaluronic Acid |
Saturday | Minoxidil + Caffeine Serum |
Sunday | Scalp massage with essential oils (rosemary, castor oil) |
💡 Stick to thisregimen for at least 3-6 monthsto see significant improvements inhair thickness and regrowth. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a medical consultation.
How to Choose the Best Dermaroller Size
The size of themicroneedlesis one of the most critical factors when selecting a device for scalp use.
🔹Needle Length:
- 0.5 mm→ Best for beginners, the safest, easiest-to-use option.
- 1.0 mm→ Stimulates hair follicles more effectively, suitable for moderate hair thinning.
- 1.5 mm→ Deep stimulation for significant hair loss, should be used cautiously (once a week or less).
⚠️ Avoiddermarollers with needles longer than 1.5 mmfor at-home use. They can cause damage if not employed by a dermatologist.
🔹Needle Material:
- Titanium needles→ More durable, but slightly less effective.
- Stainless steel needles→ Less durable but extremely hygienic and sharp.
🔹Needle Density:
- Fewer needles (192-540 needles)→ Penetrate deeper and cause less scalp trauma.
- More needles (1000+ needles)→ Cover more area but may not be as effective for deeper stimulation.
FAQs
How often should I use a derma roller for hair growth?
- 5 mm:2-3 times per week
- 0 mm:Once per week
- 5 mm:Once every 10-14 days
Overuse can cause irritation, so allow your scalp time to heal.
Can I use 0.5 derma roller everyday for hair?
No, using a0.5 mm dermaroller dailycan lead toexcessive irritation and inflammation. Stick to2-3 times per week to allow your scalp to recover and prevent damage.
Is dermarolling painful?
It causesmild discomfort, but not extreme pain.Longer needles (1.0 mm+)may requirenumbing creamfor a more comfortable experience. Proper technique helps minimize discomfort.
Can I apply oil immediately after dermarolling?
Yes, butonly soothing oilslikerosemary or jojoba oil. Avoidharsh or alcohol-based products(like minoxidil) for at least12-24 hoursto prevent irritation.
What is the best oil for a derma roller?
Rosemary oil(stimulates hair growth),jojoba oil(hydrates scalp), andcastor oil(strengthens hair). Avoid thick or comedogenic oils that may clog pores.
When will I see results?
Visible hair growth starts in3-6 monthswith consistency.
What are the results of a 1 month derma roller?
You may noticeimproved scalp circulationand slightlythicker existing hair, butvisible new hair growthusually starts after3-6 monthsof consistent use.
Are Dermaroller results permanent?
No,maintenance is required. Hair growth canreverse if you stopdermarolling and using supporting products. Consistency is key to long-term results.
What are the side effects of derma roller on hair?
Mildredness, irritation, temporary shedding, andscalp sensitivity. Improper use or poor hygiene may causeinfectionor worsen hair loss.
How to clean a derma roller at home?
- Rinse with warm water.
- Soak in70% isopropyl alcoholfor5-10 minutes.
- Air dry completely before storing. Never share your dermaroller.
How to dermaroll a hairline?
Start at thefrontand rollbackward, coveringall directions(vertical, horizontal, diagonal). Applygentle pressureand avoid rolling over irritated skin.
