Last Updated on January 16, 2019 by
It’s normal to lose about 100 strands (out of 100,000) of hair each day due to natural shedding. During the hair’s natural growth cycle, those shed hairs are being replaced constantly. Because of the constant regrowth, you’re not likely to notice.Whether you want to avoid future thinning or undo some damage that’s already been done, there’s a tool that’ll help you improve your growth cycle. Continue reading while we explain how you can use a derma roller for hair loss.
Hair loss, however, is a completely different ballgame. Men and women can lose hair to stress, thyroid disease, genetics, anemia, and low vitamin levels just to name a few. It’s important to consult with a doctor when you notice thinning or balding, as these symptoms can be related to a more serious problem.
In this article we’re going to check out evidence on whether or not these really work. Then, we jump into reviews of the 5 best derma rollers for hair loss. After that we’ll get into more information about derma rollers. We’ll discuss how to use them, and methods you should try.
Evidence of Dermarollers Efficacy against Hair Loss
Here’s the study that demonstrated when a dermaroller was used in conjunction with minoxidil, hair count results were statistically superior to those subjects who only used minoxidil alone:
A Randomized Evaluator Blinded Study of Effect of Microneedling in Androgenetic Alopecia. International Journal of Trichology. Rachita Dhurat, et al.
The Best Dermarollers for Hair Loss
Without further ado, checkout our top 5 picks.
1. Lipogaine Max Roller System
Lipogaine is a popular brand known for their minoxidil and azelaic acid formula. They’ve developed a number of other products, including two derma roller models particularly designed for hair loss applications. The two models are the Max Roller System with 1.5mm length needles and the second model offers 0.25mm length needles. The 1.5mm needles were used in the clinical study we talk about in the section above. These Lipogaine Max Rollers are quality, high density dermarollers with over 500 titanium needles per roller.
2. Premium Derma Roller with 540 Micro Needle
This FDA approved dermaroller is great for anyone on a budget. It’s made from titanium and won’t rust or become dull. The needles are .25mm, meaning it’s gentle enough to use on your face, too. Since it uses smaller needles, this dermaroller works best for preventing hair loss. It won’t help with severe baldness. If you’re looking for something that helps your scalp absorb products like minoxidil and oils for hair health, this is your dermaroller.
3. MagnaRoller Scalp Massager
The MagnaRoller Scalp Massager has a different look from the average dermaroller. Instead of a handle, it has holes on the sides for your fingers to comfortably sit while you work the tool through your scalp. The MagnaRoller uses magnets to increase blood flow and it can be used on wet or dry hair. The manufacturer suggests using for as long as you can tolerate while increasing the amount of time per session as you get used to it.
4. Dragontail Dermaroller
The Dragontail Dermaroller uses .3 mm needles to penetrate your skin’s surface for lasting results. The roller is made from titanium and proven to be sturdy. It has an ergonomic handle for comfortable gripping and easy maneuvering.
5. Hita’U Personal Care Roller
The Hita’U Personal Care Roller is a professional grade .5 mm derma roller. It’s effective for deep scarring and balding. The tool is approved by the FDA and comes with a free e-book with treatment options and suggestions when purchased. It’s pretty amazing to own a single tool that can smooth the skin throughout your body while also growing your hair. Make sure you disinfect your dermaroller between uses.
What Is a Dermaroller?
We know, dermarollers look a little scary if you’ve never used one! But we assure you, they don’t inflict any pain when used correctly. It’s a small handheld rolling device with a surface covered in microneedles. The needles (which are rolled over your skin) can be between .25mm to 1.5m in length depending on the model you choose. This little gadget can be used to repair the skin from your scalp down to your toes. It purposely leaves unnoticeable tears in your skin that trigger your body’s skin repair system.
This process causes your body to produce more collagen. Which encourages stronger, firmer skin that absorbs topical creams, ointments, and oils at a much faster rate. Dermarollers are used at home and in dermatologist’s offices to reduce stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, hair loss, wrinkles, and clogged pores. It’s a full-on beauty treatment with benefits that go beyond the surface.
Do Dermarollers Work for Hair Loss?
Remember the cycle of shedding and replacing hair we talked about earlier? Hair loss happens when the replacement part of their cycle has been disrupted. During this time, the hair follicles are usually replaced by scar tissue. And you will see baldness as a result. Again, the causes vary. And you should see a doctor at the first sign of significant hair loss.
Derma rolling is a treatment that you may also hear called micro-needling, skin needling, or collagen induction therapy. Just as the length of the needles on derma rollers vary by brand, the amount of needles varies too. You may see dermarollers with 90-540 needles.
During treatment, you will roll the dermaroller over your scalp to produce those tiny punctures. If you’re especially sensitive in this area, you may want to roll over a thin piece of fabric like a wig cap. Anything thicker will lessen the effect and decrease your results.
As a result of the tiny punctures in your scalp, your body will begin producing more of its growth hormone and collagen. Additionally, the circulation of blood to the scalp will be increased, which sends nutrients to the hair follicles. These things all help you grow healthy hair.
How Do You Use a Dermaroller for Hair Loss?
It sounds simple to just roll the dermaroller across your scalp to stimulate hair growth, but there’s more to it. Before you use any dermaroller, you need to read the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
The Size of Your Dermaroller
The size of your dermaroller will depend on the reason you’re using it. You’d want larger needles (3mm) for deep scarring on your leg for example, where that same size will damage your scalp. When you’re using a dermaroller for hair growth, stick with a range of .5mm and 1.5 mm.
Dermarolling Treatment
You can perform the dermarolling treatment once a week or biweekly without causing too much damage to your scalp. If you’re using a needle on the larger scale, use it biweekly. Listen to your body and do only what it can tolerate. If you experience bleeding, you might be applying too much pressure or need a smaller needle size.
Redness and minor tenderness in the scalp are normal for up to 24 hours after using a dermaroller. Always follow the package’s instructions for safety and results. You should start to see more hair growth after a month.
Dermarolling with Essential Oils
Dermarollers are great on their own, but your hair will look even better when you add essential oils to your treatment. Because there are many products on the market that don’t live up to their promises of helping hair thrive, we’ve compiled a list of essential oils that are proven to condition your scalp while you grow longer, fuller locks.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is antimicrobial which means it can prevent bacteria and fungi from growing in your hair and scalp. It can also stop itchiness, dandruff, and prevent head lice. And of course, lavender oil stimulates hair growth. During a study on mice in 2016, the oil worked its way into their skin and made their hair grow thicker and faster than it had before. Lavender essential oil is also known to help pattern baldness and alopecia.
Rosemary Oil
If you tend to stray from oils because your hair gets too greasy, rosemary oil will work or you. It slows down the sebum glands (glands that secrete oil) and cleans up them clogged pores that can be responsible for acne and itchiness. The antioxidants in rosemary oil also slow down the graying process, thinning and help blood circulate in the scalp to grow hair.
Peppermint Oil
If you suffer from a dry, itchy, dandruff producing scalp, peppermint oil will be a lifesaver for you. It naturally cleanses the scalp and opens clogged pores. This gives the natural oils your skin produces room to flow. The action also makes it easier for your scalp to absorb other essential oils like coconut for added moisture.
Additionally, peppermint oil promotes hair growth by improving the blood flow in the scalp and waking up your hair follicles.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is full of the good fats, vitamins, and antioxidants your hair needs to calm frizz and repair split ends. Its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties soothe your scalp when you have inflammation, psoriasis, dandruff, and excessive itching. A great bonus if you spend a lot of time outdoors, the oil works like sunscreen and will also protect your hair from sun damage.
The “How To” Section
You can use any of these essential oils on their own or paired with another for your own custom blend. Before you begin dermarolling, apply your preferred oil to your scalp. Then use your dermaroller to gently massage the oil into your skin using horizontal, diagonal, and vertical motions. You should be finished after 10 to 15 minutes.
