Derma rolling, also known as microneedling, has become a popular at-home treatment for improving the appearance of skin. While derma rollers are often used on the face to reduce scarring and wrinkles, many people are wondering if they can also help with hair growth and thickness. In this article, we will explore the relationship between derma rolling and hair and whether it can help thicken fine or thinning hair.
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Does derma roller thicken hair?
Yes, derma rolling can help thicken hair and stimulate hair growth. When used correctly on the scalp, derma rollers create micro-injuries that trigger the body's natural wound healing response. This increases blood flow to the scalp which transports more nutrients and antioxidants to hair follicles. The massage-like action of rolling also helps loosen old, trapped keratin and sebum beneath the scalp's surface. All of these factors promote a healthier environment for existing hair to grow thicker and stimulate dormant follicles to start new hair growth cycles.
How does derma rolling work for hair?
Derma rolling works to thicken hair through the body's natural wound healing process. When the tiny needles of a derma roller pass over the scalp, they create micro-punctures in the skin. These tiny "injuries" trigger the release of platelets and growth factors which increase blood flow to the area. More blood flow means more nutrients, oxygen, and proteins are delivered to hair follicles via small new blood vessels formed during healing.
Growth factors released during wound healing such as pentapeptide-3, collagen, and elastin also help stimulate dormant hair follicles. Over multiple derma rolling sessions held 1-2 weeks apart, this repetition of small "injuries" promotes healthier, thicker hair as the follicles receive increased support. The lymphatic drainage caused by rolling further helps loosen buildup beneath the scalp that can clog pores and restrict hair growth.
Benefits of derma rolling for hair thickness
Some potential benefits of using a derma roller on the scalp to help increase hair thickness and density include:
- Increased blood circulation - stimulates blood flow which brings more oxygen and nutrients to follicles.
- Stimulation of hair follicles - releases growth factors to reawaken dormant follicles and promote new hair growth cycles.
- Exfoliation of scalp buildup - removes excess sebum, dead skin cells and other debris clogging pores.
- Encourages collagen production - micro-needling disruptions trigger collagen creation for stronger, thicker strands.
- Improves absorption of topical products - creates paths for serums, oils and other treatments to penetrate deeper.
Regular derma rolling sessions may help reduce the appearance of fine, thinning hair over time by addressing the root causes of weak hair through natural hair regrowth stimulation.
How to derma roll for thicker hair
To properly use a derma roller to potentially thicken hair, follow these guidelines:
- Cleanse scalp with mild shampoo before and after. Dirty hair can lead to infections.
- Use a derma roller with 0.25-1mm stainless steel needles. Shorter is better for delicate scalp skin.
- Gently roll backwards and forwards in a crisscross motion over entire scalp for 5-10 minutes.
- Apply moderate pressure, just until scalp tingles. Do not cause bleeding.
- Repeat once every 1-2 weeks. Consistency is important for long-term results.
- Massage any favorite oils, serums into scalp post-rolling to aid absorption.
- Be patient. Visible improvements in thickness may take 3-6 months with consistent use.
It's best to derma roll as part of an overall hair thickening routine including a healthy diet, limiting stress, and using targeted hair growth products suited for your hair type.
Does it work for everyone?
While derma rolling shows promise for thicker hair when done correctly, the results may vary depending on individual factors:
- Hair loss cause - It works best for thinning from aging/hormones. May be less effective for genetic baldness.
- Consistency - Frequent, long-term use (6+ months) provides the best outcomes. Isolated sessions won't regrow lost hair.
- Needle size - Smaller needles like 0.25mm penetrate safely, inducing collagen response for hair. Bigger needles damage skin.
- Hair health - Diet, lifestyle and underlying well-being impact hair's ability to thicken fully in response to derma rolling.
- Age - Younger individuals typically see more dramatic regrowth vs late-stage miniaturization.
While it doesn't always achieve drastic regrowth alone, derma rolling can significantly improve hair volume and density when used properly as part of a holistic routine for hair health. Like any natural treatment, patience is required to see a difference.
Potential downsides of derma rolling for hair
As with any skincare procedure, there are some potential downsides to consider with derma rolling for hair:
- Pain or discomfort - Micro-needling triggers nerve endings and may cause stinging, itching or tenderness on the scalp.
- Irritation or inflammation - For sensitive skins, redness, bumps or flaking could occur if too much pressure is used.
- Infection risk - Not cleaning the derma roller properly between uses allows bacteria to enter tiny wounds and cause issues.
- Scarring - While rare, over-aggressive rolling with too many or too large needles could potentially scar delicate scalp tissue.
- Expense - Derma rollers require monthly replacement and consistent use for viability, adding up costs over time.
- No guarantee of results - As with any natural remedy, outcomes are not promised and individual factors apply for each user.
With care and caution, many of these potential downsides can be avoided. Stopping use if discomfort occurs and sterilizing equipment appropriately also helps minimize risks.
The bottom line on derma rolling for hair thickness
In summary, using a derma roller as part of an overall hair care routine does appear effective at improving hair volume and density for many by stimulating regrowth. By creating controlled micro-injuries to the scalp, derma rolling kickstarts the body's natural wound healing cascade which increases blood flow, activates dormant follicles and creates a healthier environment for hair.
Consistency over several months is important, using proper sanitization and a maximum 1mm needle size for safety. While not a permanent hair loss solution alone, regular derma rolling can make a genuine difference in hair fullness and thickness when backed by a nourishing scalp diet and lifestyle. With care, most individuals experience positive improvements when combining derma rolling with oils, serums and other hair-supporting practices tailored for their specific hair type and goals.
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Read more:
- Dermatologist's Guide To The Best Derma Roller For Hair Growth
- 11 Best Shampoos For Thinning Hair Due To Menopause & Itchy Scalp
- 19 Best & Proven Shampoos For Hair Thinning In 2024
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