Dermarolling at Home
To Roll or Not to Roll?
That is the question!
Dermarolling—a form of skin needling and microneedling—has rapidly grown in popularity in the world of at-home skincare. If you’ve yet to give it a try, you may be wondering what the benefits are and how to get started.
Well, I’m here to help!
To catch you up to speed, with a device called a derma roller, tiny punctures are made in the outermost layer of the skin. By painlessly micro injuring the skin, new elastin and collagen production is stimulated which can give the skin more firmness, suppleness and elasticity. An added plus is that dermarolling also “opens” the skin’s epidermis, allowing active ingredients in skincare products to penetrate deeper, offering more bang for your buck when it comes to serums and creams!
There is absolutely no reason to be intimidated by dermarolling at home. With the starter dermaroller I recommend, you’ll be giving your skin a rejuvenating boost with little to no discomfort, and witness a skin transformation.
No, let’s dive into HOW to dermaroll.
Choosing a Dermaroller
Dr. Des Fernandes, founder of Environ® Skin Care, is the pioneer and global guru of skin needling. He has spent 20+ years developing skin needling tools and techniques. This is why I exclusively carry Environ® dermarollers. For at-home use, Environ offers the Cosmetic Roll-CIT® and the Cosmetic Gold Roll-CIT®. Both rollers are similar, but offer different needle lengths.
I recommend my clients start with the Cosmetic Roll-CIT® which offers a needle length of 0.1mm. It’s a great introductory roller for those new to dermarolling. As my clients grow in confidence and commitment to dermarolling, I suggest advancing to the Cosmetic Gold Roll-CIT® which features a 0.2mm needle.
Cosmetic Gold Roll-CIT®
Dermarollers offered by Environ were designed and developed by the pioneer of skin needling.
Whichever dermaroller you decide to purchase, for your safety and treatment effectiveness, it is imperative that the roller you choose is high quality and from a reputable source.
How to Dermaroll
Sanitize the dermaroller. Always, always sanitize your dermaroller before and after use. If your device does not include a sanitizer, submerging the roller head in a small container of rubbing alcohol for 3-5 minutes will do the job.
Prep your skin. Cleanse and tone your skin.
Apply your favorite serum. For dryness, consider a serum with hyaluronic acid. For hyperpigmentation, a Vitamin C-based serum would be a good choice. Apply a light layer to the area(s) being treated, with the exception of eyelids. You do not need to use any product in conjunction with dermarolling, but doing so has so many advantages.
Start rolling. Technique is important. Divide your face into four sections. Gently roll over the skin with your derma roller in a vertical, horizontal, and then diagonal direction three to four times per area. I recommend doing this twice which should take about 5 minutes. Take extra care when rolling under your eyes and around the lips as these areas are more sensitive. Apply just enough pressure that is comfortably tolerated. You may notice some mild redness and tingling. That’s a good indicator that you are rolling right! Please note: Never dermaroll inflamed skin or acne.
Apply another layer of serum. Finish your rolling with second application of your favorite serum.
Sanitize again. Clean your roller thoroughly following the instructions in Step 1. If left uncleaned, harmful bacteria can grow on the head and needles of the roller, which can lead to breakouts.
How Often Should I Dermaroll?
If you are just starting out, roll 1-2 times per week. Gradually work your way up to 4-5 times a week. I recommend dermarolling at night so that any redness you experience can dissipate overnight.
Have questions?
I am passionate about educating my clients on how to take impeccable care of their skin. If you have any questions, please reach out!