Seeing as taking care of our skin ranks fairly high on our to-do list, we will happily admit that trying out DIY treatments at home is something that sparks serious joy. We’ve tried multiple things in the name of healthy skin: Cucumber juice as toner, clay spot treatments and jade rollers. Another interesting tool that recently made its way to our beauty desk is a derma roller. If you’re wondering why everyone’s talking about this skincare device, keep reading.
What is a derma roller?
Derma rollers are basically devices that have a wheel with hundreds of tiny needles on it. It works by puncturing the surface of the skin, which immediately gives your brain a signal that something needs healing and mending. Over time, this results in smoother skin.
Derma rolling using to be an in-clinic technique till 2019 when at-home tools were launched in the mainstream market. If you’re wondering what derma rollers can help with, here’s a surprise–they work to address all skin concerns from acne to fine lines to pigmentation.
How does a derma roller work?
The process includes using the roller on clean skin to prick it. It contains hundreds of needles that create micro-injuries on the skin. This throws the collagen production in the body into a frenzy and it overcompensates to heal the skin. The result? Tighter and plumper skin. When used with a serum, derma rollers can aid in boosting product absorption.
Benefits of using a derma roller on your face
According to experts, some of the benefits of derma rollers are:
• Boosts collagen production which helps reduce visible signs of ageing.
• May help to fade acne scars.
• Can help reduce hyperpigmentation.
• May help minimise pores and fine lines.
Side effects of using a derma roller on your face
Though derma rollers can work for all skin types, it is recommended that those with sensitive or acne-prone skin should be mindful about their usage.
Derma rolling may sometimes lead to skin peeling and dryness.
How to choose a derma roller
Remember, not all derma rollers have been created equal so it is important you pick one based on your skin concern. Using one with a needle that is too long or thick can damage skin.
• First things first, make sure the roller is purchased from a reputed supplier. At the very least, make sure there are enough reviews about the product and the seller before buying it online.
• At home, it is best to use a derma roller where the needles are 0.3 mm thick or lower. Anything more than that will damage the skin if used incorrectly.
• When picking the material for the derma roller, look for titanium or surgical grade stainless steel.
How to use a derma roller on your face
1. Cleanse
Never ever use a derma roller on dirty skin. If you do, you will be giving germs access to punctured and injured skin.
2. Pat in serum
Derma rollers can aid product absorption so don’t forget to pat in a layer or two of your favourite skincare serum. Pick formulas that contain nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides. Stay away from retinol and exfoliating acids as these can cause sensitivity and irritation.
3. Wield your derma roller
Roll your roller over your skin vertically, horizontally and then diagonally, twice. Do this on your cheeks, forehead, neck, and chin. Remember to apply light pressure. How often you use derma rollers depends on the length and thickness of the needles. The longer they are, the less often you should use them. Stick to using derma rollers once and month and then build up the frequency.
4. Use serum again
Apply serum on your skin post-rolling.
5. Sterilise the derma roller
Cleanse your roller with isopropyl alcohol once done and store it once dry in a plastic case.
Tips for using a derma roller on your face
• If you have acne, make sure you’re using the roller on the areas that aren’t breaking out and sterilise the tool after each use.
• Make sure you sterilise the tool in 80 per cent isopropyl alcohol and air dry it before using it. If you don’t have alcohol at home, submerge the head in hot water for five minutes and let it dry before rolling it over the skin.
• Remove any make-up or skincare before jumping in with the derma roller. If you don’t do this, your pores can get infected due to the dirt sitting on the surface of your skin.
• Never use a derma roller around your eyes, your lids or too close to the mouth as the skin there is delicate and can get damaged easily.
Conclusion
Derma rollers are a great tool to invest in, as long as you use them correctly. After using it, store them in their plastic case carefully. If you have any doubts about if derma rollers will suit your skin type, consult your dermatologist.
FAQs
How long will it take to see the results?
It may take any amount of time between two to six months.
Are there any side effects of using a derma roller?
If you don’t use and store the derma roller correctly, expect a slew of issues including dryness, irritation, infection and bleeding.
We advise you to consult an expert before trying out these products.