Dermaroller Protocol. Everything there is to know about dermarollers and how to use them.

Posted by YUNASENCE on 14th Jan 2023

Dermaroller Protocol. Everything there is to know about dermarollers and how to use them.

Dermarollers (or Mesorollers) become more and more popular these days. And we receive a lot of questions about them, and how to incorporate them in your Yunasence beauty ritual. So here we answer all your questions and a lot more. 

1. What is a dermaroller? A dermaroller is a small, handheld device with a rolling head covered in fine needles ranging in size from 0.2mm to 3mm. It is used to create microscopic punctures in the skin, which can stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. There are also dermastamps available, but rollers are more popular among home users.

2. How does a dermaroller work? When a dermaroller is rolled over the skin, the needles create tiny punctures in the surface. This can stimulate collagen production, which can help to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars.

3. What are the benefits of using a dermaroller? Some potential benefits of using a dermaroller include improved skin texture, reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improved scar appearance.

4. How often should you use a dermaroller? The frequency with which you can use a dermaroller will depend on the size of the roller and the condition of your skin. Here are some general guidelines for using a dermaroller:

  1. For a small roller with needles that are 0.2-0.5 mm in length, you can use the roller once a week.
  2. For a medium roller with needles that are 0.5-1.0 mm in length, you can use the roller once a week or every other week.
  3. For a large roller with needles that are 1.0-2.0 mm in length, you should only use the roller once a month or less frequently.

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines and you should always follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your dermaroller. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin or if you are using the dermaroller on a sensitive area of your skin, you may want to start with a smaller roller and use it less frequently until your skin becomes accustomed to the treatment.

5. How should you prepare your skin for dermaroller use? It is important to thoroughly cleanse your skin and disinfect your dermaroller before using it. You can use rubbing alcohol for desinfection and wait a few minutes for alcohol to evaporate before use.

6. How do you use a dermaroller? To use a dermaroller, gently roll it over your skin in a back and forth motion, applying light to moderate pressure. Please refer to the guideline image below. And be sure to disinfect the device after use.

7. What are the potential side effects of using a dermaroller? Some potential side effects of using a dermaroller include redness, swelling, and skin irritation. It is normal and discomfort subsides within an hour. Make sure to apply a soothing moisturizer after the treatment.

8. Who should not use a dermaroller? Dermarollers should not be used on infected or irritated skin, or by individuals who are prone to keloids or scarring. It is important to consult a dermatologist before using a dermaroller if you have any concerns about your skin.

9. What size dermaroller is the best? The size of the needles on a dermaroller can vary, and the best size for you will depend on your individual skin concerns and goals. In general, shorter needles (0.2-0.5mm) are best for concerns like fine lines and mild acne scarring, while longer needles (1.0mm and above) are better for deeper concerns like severe acne scarring and stretch marks. Studies show that very small microneedles of 0.2-0.3mm can increase trans-dermal absorption, but 0.5mm needle length is the most effective because it delivers the substances to the ideal depth to allow maximum absorption by the minor capillaries.

10. Can retinol be used with dermaroller? Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is a popular skincare ingredient that is often used to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. While a dermaroller can be used to enhance the penetration and effectiveness of retinol, it is important to use caution when combining these two treatments.

Retinol can increase skin sensitivity and make it more prone to irritation, so it is generally recommended to avoid using a dermaroller and retinol at the same time. Additionally, Vitamin A containing products can prolong the inflammation and cause additional side effects. We would suggest to use a serum with Bakuchiol instead to minimize the possibility of irritation.

11. Can alpha hydroxy acids be used with dermaroller? Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a group of exfoliating compounds that are commonly used in skincare products to improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven skin tone, and rough texture. While a dermaroller can be used to enhance the penetration and effectiveness of AHAs, it is important to use caution when combining these two treatments. We would suggest to use them on different days.

Just like retinol, AHAs can increase skin sensitivity and make it more prone to irritation, so it is generally recommended to avoid using a dermaroller and AHAs at the same time. If you are interested in using both treatments, it is best to speak with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine the most appropriate way to incorporate them into your skincare routine. They will be able to take into account your individual skin concerns and needs to recommend the best course of treatment.

12. Can Vitamin C be used with dermaroller? Yes, you can use a dermaroller with a vitamin C serum. In fact, using a dermaroller with a vitamin C serum may enhance the effectiveness of both products. Dermarolling can help to improve the penetration of skincare products, including vitamin C serums, into the skin. This is because the dermaroller's microneedles create microscopic channels in the skin, which can allow for better absorption of skincare products. When used together, a dermaroller and vitamin C serum may help to improve the overall appearance of the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.

13. What types of serums are best to use with dermaroller? Some common types of serums that may be suitable for use with a dermaroller include:

  1. Vitamin C serums: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to improve the appearance of the skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
  2. Hyaluronic acid serums: These serums can help to hydrate the skin and improve its appearance by plumping up fine lines and wrinkles.
  3. Niacinamide serums: Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that can help to improve the appearance of the skin by reducing the appearance of redness, uneven skin tone, and fine lines and wrinkles.
  4. Peptide serums: Peptides are small proteins that can help to improve the appearance of the skin by boosting collagen production and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

It is important to note that not all serums are suitable for use with a dermaroller. Some serums may be too thick or may contain ingredients that could potentially irritate the skin when used with a dermaroller. It is always a good idea to patch test any new skincare product before using it on a larger area of your skin.

17. What should you do after dermaroller treatment? After using a dermaroller, there are several steps you should follow to care for your skin:

  1. Disinfect the dermaroller: It is important to thoroughly disinfect the dermaroller after each use to prevent the spread of bacteria. You can do this by soaking the dermaroller in rubbing alcohol for a few minutes, or according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  2. Apply a serum or treatment: After cleansing, apply a serum or treatment product to your skin. This could be a vitamin C serum, a hyaluronic acid serum, or another product that you have chosen based on your skin's needs.
  3. Apply a moisturizer: After applying a serum or treatment product, apply a moisturizer to your skin to help hydrate and soothe it.
  4. Protect your skin from the sun: It is important to protect your skin from the sun after using a dermaroller. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to help protect your skin from damaging UV rays if sun exposure is unavoidable.

18. What time of the day is it best to use dermaroller? It is generally best to use a dermaroller at night, before you go to bed. This allows the skin time to recover and repair itself while you sleep.

It is important to follow these steps carefully to help care for your skin and ensure that you get the best results from your dermaroller treatment.