Dermaroller: the device that reduces wrinkles, blemishes and even scars

Perhaps you have already seen – in images, videos on the internet or on television, for example – a device in the shape of a “roll” where several microneedles are inserted. This is the Dermaroller, a microneedling device used for dermatological and aesthetic purposes.

The biomedical and beautician Luciana Godinho explains that the Dermaroller is composed of a cylinder with small and thin needles attached to it. There are different sizes of needles, and they vary according to the purpose of the treatment. The thicker the needle, the more intense the treatment; the thinner, the more superficial.

The primary objective of Dermaroller is to stimulate the production of collagen by the body. For this, explains the biomedical esthete José Henrique dos Santos, the microneedles are passed over the skin, generating microlesions and “forcing” the body to produce more collagen to heal them. Thus, the skin is renewed in the place where the treatment is being applied. That is, the more microlesions are made on the skin, the more new tissue must be synthesized.

“The process can be painful, so we use a topical anesthetic or even an injectable one,” says Santos.

Check below for which cases the Dermaroller is indicated, whether or not it can be used at home and the contraindications of the device.

What is Dermaroller used for?

The essential function of the device is to stimulate the production of collagen, a protein essential for beauty. For this, the microneedles injure the skin, so that the release of collagen is then stimulated.

Thus, the main results achieved with the Dermaroller, according to Luciana, are:

• Reduction of blemishes in general;
• Decreased expression lines;
• Wrinkle reduction;
• Alleviation of scars, including acne and pimples;
• Assistance in the recovery of body parts that have suffered burns;
• Reduction of local sagging (since it makes the treated tissue firmer);
• Improved local blood circulation.

Santos points out that collagen regenerates the skin and is essential to keep it firmer and smoother. Thus, Dermaroller can be a great ally in different types of treatments.

Can I use Dermaroller at home?

Currently, it is very easy to find Dermaroller for sale on the internet and many people have taken the risk of doing the treatment at home. But, is this indicated?

The biomedical doctor Luciana points out that it is not ideal. “The most recommended thing is that you make a professional evaluation before starting any procedure. In an office environment, there is also skin and device hygiene care,” she says.

But, explains Luciana, there are devices that can be used at home. “Some devices have a needle thickness that is already suitable for domestic use. The one with 0.5 mm is for superficial cases such as acne spots, superficial wrinkles and others”, highlights the specialist.

Those who choose to use the Dermaroller at home should not use a needle larger than 0.5 mm, running the risk of, instead of regenerating the skin, seriously injuring it, worsening its appearance.

Still, doing treatment with professionals qualified for this is the best option. With professional monitoring, it is even possible to associate the Dermaroller with the application of substances (such as vitamins, hyaluronic acid, among others), which will penetrate the skin better, enhancing the results.

A professional specialist in this procedure will also know how to apply a local anesthetic, will correctly decide which needle will be used and how this equipment should be slid into the skin, among other care.

Stories from those who have tried it

Below you can find testimonials from people who have used Dermaroller at home or have had it treated in clinics.

1. Aesthetic treatment for the face: Dermaroller, by Antonella Sapia Pedalino

In the video, Antonella shows her Dermaroller treatment session done in clinic. She declares that the procedure didn’t hurt – which was what she feared most.

2. Dermaroller, for flawless, younger and firmer skin without blemishes, by Naiane Zambotti

Naiane reports her experience using the Dermaroller at home. She says that, right after the procedure, she only noticed the skin a little hot and red, but fresh.

3. Dermaroller – microneedling, by Michely Massarotto

Michely says that she decided to do the procedure to soften blemishes on the skin of her face. At the end, she felt a little burning and her face turned red and a little swollen.

It is worth mentioning that there are those who use the Dermaroller at home and guarantee that they are satisfied with the results achieved. However, it is also possible to find reports of people who have injured their skin when trying to use the device at home.

Contraindications and care with Dermaroller

As long as it is performed by a trained and qualified professional for this procedure, the Dermaroller is safe. But each case must be evaluated individually. There are usually contraindications in cases of pregnancy, metabolic disorders, systemic diseases and infectious processes in the skin.

In addition, some precautions are important. “If the patient is exposed to the sun during the treatment, it can worsen the level of melasma existing in the skin or even generate other complications during the treatment”, highlights Santos.

For all these reasons, to actually enjoy the benefits offered by Dermaroller, the ideal is to look for a qualified professional for this procedure and correctly follow the guidelines given by him.