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The Best Derma Rollers To Get You Started On Microneedling At Home

by Rachael Lubarsky
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
Microneedling with a derma roller
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In our quest for smooth, unlined, younger-looking skin, there are not many stones we’ve left unturned. Snail mucus? Tried it. Jade face roller? Bought one. LED treatments? Got a pack of ten. We’ve done it all for the sake of beauty, but when we heard about microneedling — that’s the process of puncturing your skin with teeney, tiny needles even we hesitated. Does it hurt? Would we bleed? Does it even work?

What is microneedling?

Microneedling works by creating micro punctures in your skin that jumpstart the process of creating more collagen – the stuff that makes your skin look young and plump. Normal collagen production starts to wane as you get older (thanks, Mother Nature) and creating tiny “traumas” to your skin helps increase it temporarily as your skin heals. Increased collagen helps fade acne scarring and discoloration. Plus, slathering your punctured skin in serums helps improve absorption.

Microneedling is typically done with a derma roller — which looks like a small needle-spiked roller that a tiny medieval warrior might wield into battle. The derma roller is rolled over areas of concern a couple of times to create the tiny holes and the healing process begins.

How do you use a derma roller?

Depending on the size of the needles, which are measured in millimeters, the “damage” to your skin varies, as does the pain. The process can be done in a dermatologist’s office, but at-home derma rollers are available all over the internet. Curious about trying it at home? Please follow these rules:

  1. Soak all derma rollers and stamps in 70% isopropyl alcohol before AND after using. (because: infection) Then quickly rinse under the water faucet before rolling your skin.
  2. Apply serum before and after you roll to really get it to soak in there.
  3. Divide your face into four sections and roll in one direction 6 to 8 times, depending on your skin tolerance and sensitivity, making sure to lift the roller after each pass. Go over each section horizontally, vertically, and diagonally.
  4. Don’t use needles longer than 0.5mm on your face at home – that’s for professionals!
  5. Get to the dermatologist for any wacky reactions!

Not sure where to start? Here are our top picks for when you’re (literally) on a roll!

Now that your face and body have never been so smooth, shop for more beauty must-haves.

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