If you've tried everything to treat hair loss and grow new hair, it's time to try using the derma roller.
Early results show derma rollers effectively stimulate hair growth and reduce hair thinning and hair loss within weeks.
Could this tool finally be the answer?
We asked UK board-certified dermatologist Dr. Chaudhry to answer all of that & we tested the best derma roller for hair growth in 2024.
What is a derma roller?
A derma roller is a tool used to stimulate hair growth on the scalp. It is a roller covered in tiny needles that create micro-injuries in the skin. This triggers the body's natural wound healing response, which can increase blood flow to the scalp and collagen production. These factors may enhance hair growth and help promote healthier hair.
In a randomized evaluator-blinded study conducted in 2013, microneedling therapy along with minoxidil was statistically superior to using minoxidil alone in promoting new hair.
Is dermaroller effective for hair growth?
Yes, dermarollers are effective for hair growth. They work by creating tiny punctures on the scalp, which trigger the body's wound healing response and stimulate hair follicles. When used alongside treatments like topical minoxidil, dermarollers can significantly enhance hair growth and thickness.
Studies have shown that using a dermaroller with minoxidil can improve hair growth in 82% of participants, compared to just 4.5% using minoxidil alone.
This makes dermarollers a beneficial addition for those seeking to increase hair density and combat hair loss.
Supporting studies and evidence:
- Microneedling with minoxidil: A study revealed that microneedling combined with minoxidil treatment led to a more than 50% improvement in hair growth for 82% of participants, which is a significant increase compared to using minoxidil alone. The change in average hair count was also four times higher for those combining derma rolling with minoxidil.
- Microneedling with finasteride and minoxidil: Further research indicates that derma rolling enhances the effects of combined Finasteride and Minoxidil treatments in men with male pattern baldness, suggesting its potential for those not satisfied with traditional treatments.
- Microneedling for female pattern hair loss: Studies also show that micro-needling can effectively treat female pattern hair loss. One specific study used a growth factor solution (SGF-57) with microneedling, resulting in a more than 10% increase in hair count, offering a promising treatment option for women.
- Clinical observations: Another study noted a slight clinical improvement in hair regrowth after three derma rolling sessions for a patient with diffuse thinning, highlighting its potential effectiveness in treating female hair loss.
Basics of using a derma roller for hair growth
When using a derma roller for hair growth, start by ensuring your hair is clean and preferably dry. Dry hair minimizes tangling and makes the rolling smoother.
You should gently roll over your scalp for about 5 to 10 minutes, focusing on areas where you want to enhance hair growth. If you're using a smaller needle size, like 0.5mm, you can use it daily.
For larger needles, limit the use to once or twice a week to prevent irritation.
Remember, the goal is to stimulate the scalp without causing undue stress or damage, so keep the pressure light and the sessions spaced.
Post-dermarolling care and treatment enhancement
After using a derma roller, your scalp will be more receptive to topical treatments. This is an excellent time to apply hair growth stimulants like rosemary oil, which can soothe the scalp and boost hair growth.
For stronger treatments like minoxidil, it’s wise to wait at least 24 hours after rolling to apply, as this can help avoid irritation.
Light, natural oils can be used immediately if your scalp feels particularly dry.
It's advisable to avoid washing your hair immediately after rolling to allow your skin to recover and to maximize the absorption of any topical treatments you use.
Choosing the right derma roller
Selecting the right needle size for your derma roller depends on your specific goals. A 0.5mm roller is great for daily use and enhancing the absorption of topical products.
If your goal is to stimulate new hair growth more aggressively, a 1.0mm or 1.5mm roller might be more effective. These larger sizes should be used less frequently—about once every three to four weeks—to allow the scalp ample time to heal.
Consider what you’re trying to achieve: deeper needle penetration can stimulate more significant hair regrowth, but it also requires more recovery time.
Effectiveness and potential side effects of dermarolling
Dermarolling can effectively regrow hair by enhancing blood circulation and nutrient delivery to the follicles, encouraging new growth and thickening existing hair.
It can be particularly effective when combined with other treatments like minoxidil, although many users see benefits from microneedling alone.
Side effects are usually minimal but can include temporary redness and irritation immediately following use.
If you’re seeing improvements in hair density and growth over time, it's a good indication that your derma roller is working as intended.
Maintenance and precautions for dermarolling
Before you start dermarolling, make sure your scalp and the roller itself are clean to avoid infections. Cleanse your scalp with a mild shampoo to remove any build-up and sterilize your derma roller with isopropyl alcohol before and after each use.
After treatment, it's important to avoid harsh chemical treatments and excessive touching or scratching of the scalp, as this can lead to irritation and disrupt the healing process.
Maintaining the cleanliness of both your scalp and the tool is essential for safe and effective dermarolling.
Benefits of using a derma roller for hair regrowth
Here are some of the advantages of derma roller for hair growth:
- Increased blood flow: Derma rollers create tiny pricks in the scalp, which triggers the body's natural healing process. This can increase blood flow to the area, bringing more nutrients and oxygen to your hair follicles. Improved circulation can potentially promote healthy hair growth.
- Enhanced absorption of hair products: Microneedling with a derma roller can create temporary channels in the scalp, which may allow for better absorption of minoxidil or other hair loss treatments that you might be using. This could potentially improve their effectiveness.
- Stimulates hair follicles: The micro-injury from derma rolling may send signals to the scalp to boost hair follicle activity and growth factors.
How long does derma roller take to grow hair?
It likely won't be for at least a few months before you see any noticeable results from a derma roller. Here's what will typically happen:
- Initial shedding: You might actually experience some shedding in the first few weeks of using a derma roller. This is because the derma roller stimulates the scalp and pushes out hairs that are already in the telogen (shedding) phase.
- Slow growth: After the initial shedding, new hair growth will likely be slow and gradual. It can take 2-3 months to see any visible improvement, and it may take 6 months or more to see the full effects.
- Consistent use: Be patient and consistent with your hair regrowth regimen. Regular use of 1-2 times per week is the best for hair growth results.
How often should I use a derma roller?
The frequency of using a derma roller depends on the needle length:
- 0.25 mm: Every other day
- 0.5 mm: 1–3 times a week, starting with less frequent use and increasing as tolerated
- 1.0 mm: Every 10–14 days
- 1.5 mm: Once every 3–4 weeks
- 2.0 mm: Every 6 weeks (it is recommended to avoid this length for home use)
Adjusting the usage according to the needle size ensures safety and maximizes the effectiveness of the treatment.
How long does it take to see results from a derma roller for hair?
Visible improvements from using a derma roller for hair typically start to appear after 2-3 months of consistent use. Hair growth is a gradual process, and the benefits of derma rolling accumulate over time. Patience is key as results such as fuller hair and visible regrowth develop slowly.
How did we test?
For this evaluation, we recruited a panel of testers with varying scalp conditions to ensure well-rounded results.
We implemented a controlled, double-blind study. Testers used assigned derma rollers for a set period, documenting ease of use, any side effects, and perceived hair growth progress.
We then combined dermatologist-evaluated "before and after" photos with user feedback to determine the most effective and user-friendly derma rollers for hair growth.
Below are the 5 best results from over 20 tests.
5 best derma rollers for hair growth and hair loss
Here are the 5 best derma rollers for hair growth and hair loss:
- Best performance: Scandinavian Biolabs Scalp Activation Roller
- Best red light roller: BeautyBio GloPRO Regeneration Tools
- Best replaceable roller: Bosley Micro-Roller
- Best stainless steel roller: Bondi Boost Derma Roller
- Best 0.25mm roller: Act+Acre Scalp Dermaroller
We manually vet brands, look at reviews, and have hands-on testing to ensure these 5 derma rollers work for hair regrowth.
1. Best performance: Scandinavian Biolabs Scalp Activation Derma Roller
Designed with 540 titanium 0.5 mm needles, the Scalp Activation Roller by Scandinavian Biolabs is the best dermaroller for hair growth and scalp support in our comprehensive test.
It has all the things you'd want to look for in a derma roller:
- Medical grade, high-strength titanium needles that maintain sharpness and durability even after extensive use after many months.
- Ideal needle count and size for both beginners and veterans, 540 0.5 mm needles.
- One of the few derma rollers designed to boost hair health and help improve hair thinning or hair loss.
Derma rollers are designed so you can use them safely in privacy and see the results within 3-6 months.
Pros
- Developed by hair loss experts
- Helps stimulate scalp health and combat hair loss
- Safe for daily use
- Achieve professional microneedling results with at-home derma rolling.
- Excellent quality-to-cost ratio
- Works beautifully for facial hair and beard growth.
Cons
-
Cost more than other derma rollers, but you're paying for premium materials and construction that'll last longer.
2. Best red light roller: BeautyBio GloPRO Regeneration Tools
The BeautyBio GloPRO regeneration tools have a unique red light feature. It uses 1260 stainless steel 0.3 mm needles, and its red light technology provides an additional boost to blood circulation and result in thicker hair.
Pros:
- The additional red light technology improves your hair density further
- A higher needle count may provide more comprehensive coverage
Cons:
- Costs much more due to the advanced features so it is not ideal if you are just thinking about trying a derma roller for the first time
- It may not be suitable for beginners due to the higher needle count
- Users reported no results for the money spent, so you might not want to take this higher risk
3. Best replaceable roller: Bosley Micro-Roller
This Bosley Micro-Roller has 540 titanium 0.25mm needles. It's known for its durability and effectiveness in encouraging hair to grow and improving scalp health.
Pros:
- Weighted, anti-slip handle
- Replaceable head
- Unique ergonomic design
- Small needles, suitable for very sensitive scalp
Cons:
- Smaller needles might hinder the effectiveness of derma rolling
- Free products impact reviews
- Higher cost
4. Best stainless steel: Bondi Boost Derma Roller
The Bondi Boost Derma Roller remains a great option with its high-quality construction and great looks. The main roller consists of 540 needles that are 1.5mm long.
Pros:
- Long needle size that can create deeper holes
- Sleek design
- Uses medical-grade stainless steel
- Cheap
Cons:
- We cannot find any options for European consumers
- Long needles are not recommended for starters
- Longer intervals of healing needed
- Reviews mentioned that it damaged their hair
5. Best 0.25mm: Act+Acre Scalp Dermaroller
The Act+Acre Scalp Derma Roller consists of 540 needles, each 0.25mm in size. While the design is similar to that of Bondi Boost, its shorter needles are good for sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- 0.25mm ideal for sensitive skin
- Trichologist approved
Cons:
- We couldn't find any options for European consumers
- Short needle length might be less effective for hair growth
- More expensive than similar options
- Users reported it pulling their hair out
How to use derma rollers for hair growth results?
Here's a guide and tips on how to use a derma roller. Here are 7 steps you need to do to see results from microneedling with a derma roller:
What you'll need
- A derma roller
- A disinfectant solution (i.e. 70% isopropyl alcohol)
- A topical hair loss treatment.
Preparation
- Cleanse your scalp: Wash your hair and scalp with a gentle shampoo and thoroughly dry your scalp (let it air dry or blow dry).
- Disinfect the derma roller: Soak the roller head in disinfectant solution for 10-15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with sterile water and pat dry.
- Prepare the treatment area: Part your hair to expose the scalp areas you want to target.
Using the derma roller
- Apply gentle pressure: Gently roll the derma roller across the scalp area in vertical, horizontal, and diagonal motions. Apply light, even pressure to create micro-channels. Each area should be rolled 4-5 times in each direction.
- Be mindful of sensitive areas: Avoid rolling over moles, blemishes, or irritated skin.
- Target specific areas: Focus on areas with hair thinning or loss. Ensure even coverage.
After derma rolling
- Disinfect the roller again: Repeat the disinfection process as described earlier.
- Soothe the scalp: Apply a calming, alcohol-free moisturizer to soothe any irritation.
- Apply topical treatment (optional): If using minoxidil or similar topical treatments, apply it after derma rolling as it may enhance absorption.
- Avoid certain activities: Avoid strenuous exercise, excessive sweating, swimming, and hot tubs for at least 24 hours after use.
Safety precautions
- Don't share: Derma rollers are for personal use only to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- Replace regularly: Replace your derma roller every 3-4 months to maintain needle effectiveness and hygiene.
- Be mindful of contraindications: Don't use a derma roller if you have active acne, open wounds, or certain skin conditions. Consult your doctor if unsure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a derma roller presents a promising tool to promote hair growth. Through the stimulation of collagen creation, blood flow, and cellular regeneration, derma rollers may help to address issues of losing or thinning hair.
While their use requires careful consideration of factors such as needle size, application technique, and hygiene practices, with the right approach, they can be a powerful addition to your hair care regimen.
It's essential, however, to maintain realistic expectations, consult professionals when needed, and explore other hair loss treatments as part of a comprehensive approach to hair health.
FAQs
Can derma rolling treat male or female pattern baldness?
Derma rolling holds promise for both male and female pattern baldness. The tons of tiny needles create micro-injuries that trigger scalp healing, potentially improving blood flow and stimulating hair follicle function. Studies suggest it can boost hair count and density, and may even enhance the effects of other hair loss treatments like minoxidil.
Is a 1.5mm derma roller safe for hair?
Yes, a 1.5mm derma roller can be safe for hair growth if used correctly. However, due to its longer needle length, it should be used cautiously—typically no more than once every 3 to 4 weeks. It's crucial to ensure that the treatment is done gently and the scalp has adequate time to heal between sessions to prevent irritation and potential damage.
Can I use a 0.5mm derma roller every day?
Yes, a 0.5mm derma roller is generally safe to use every day because the needles are quite short and less likely to cause significant irritation or damage to the scalp. This size is ideal for enhancing the absorption of topical treatments without deeply penetrating the skin.
Can I use a 1mm derma roller every day?
Using a 1mm derma roller every day is not recommended. The needle length is long enough to cause more significant punctures and requires more time for the scalp to heal. It's better to use a 1mm derma roller once every 1 to 2 weeks to allow your scalp to recover properly and to prevent overstimulation and potential damage.
Are microneedling and derma rolling different?
Dermarolling and microneedling for hair are both methods of creating tiny injuries in the skin to boost collagen production, but they differ in execution. Microneedling is typically an in-office procedure using a pen with adjustable needles that precisely target specific areas. Dermarollers, on the other hand, are at-home tools with a roller covered in short needles that you move across your skin.
Read more:
- Can You Use A Derma Roller For Receding Hairlines?
- Derma Roller Hair Results 2024: Before & After Results
- Do Derma Rollers Work for Hair Growth? Here's Everything You Need To Know
Reference
- Dhurat R, Sukesh M, Avhad G, Dandale A, Pal A, Pund P. A randomized evaluator blinded study of effect of microneedling in androgenetic alopecia: a pilot study. Int J Trichology. 2013 Jan;5(1):6-11. doi: 10.4103/0974-7753.114700. PMID: 23960389; PMCID: PMC3746236.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jocd.13540
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4976400/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4458936/
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jdv.14722
