What is derma rolling?
Benefits of microderm needle rolling for the scalp
Just like with your skin, derma rolling can help stimulate our scalp to grow healthy new hair by…
- Increasing the absorption and effectiveness of topical products (like serums and hair masks)
- Stimulating blood circulation and cell turnover (much like exfoliation)
- Encouraging the production of collagen and elastin (two key proteins for healthy new hair growth)
Sounds like derma rolling and HAIRLOVE have a few things in common 😏
How to derma roll your scalp
If you’re curious about derma rolling your scalp, you should first consult with your doctor. If you take certain medications, or suffer from inflammatory scalp conditions or other health concerns, this device may not be right for you.
If you're good to go, with your derma roller in hand, follow the instructions below:
- Disinfect your roller: Let your roller sit in an alcohol solution for three minutes, remove, then allow it to air-dry
- Start with freshly washed hair: For a clean, fresh scalp that lower the chance of both tangles and the transfer of bacteria.
- Apply your serum: This can be an at-home mixture of essential oils (like tea tree and peppermint) and a carrier oil (like almond oil), or any other type of nourishing hair growth serum. Apply all over your scalp, or, focus on the areas you’d like to target for regrowth.
- Roll carefully: Making sure your hair is straight as can be so it doesn’t snag, hold your scalp between two fingers and gently roll back and forth, using minimal pressure. Roll in the direction your hair is laying.
- Apply more serum: Don't be shy! Make sure your scalp is getting tons of your topical product. Gently massage the oil into the area you’ve just rolled.
- Repeat and rest: Make your way through your scalp in sections, and that’s it! Take it easy and relax with some tunes or a nice book. Or let’s be honest, a glass of wine when the kids are asleep 😉
Watch this quick tutorial on how to derma roll your scalp:
Which microderm needle size should I use on my scalp?
The skin on our face and scalp are different, which means the right needle for your face won’t work the same for your scalp.
Typically, smaller needles, between 0.20mm and 0.50mm, should be used on the scalp, whereas larger needles, between 1.0mm and 1.50mm, are used on the face.
Here’s a chart of what needle sizing is typically used in each application:
|
Needle Size |
0.20mm |
0.25mm |
0.50mm |
0.75mm |
1.0mm |
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Hair regrowth (scalp) |
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Fine lines (face) |
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Anti-wrinkle (face) |
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Is derma rolling painful on the scalp?
Though derma rolling may cause slight irritation – especially when you’re first trying it out – it should not be painful. If it is, lessen the pressure on your roller.
Keep in mind though, that you may experience:
- Irritation
- Stinging
- Discomfort
- Swelling
Remember to take your derma rolling slowly, and if you develop persistent pain, stop doing it and consult with your doctor.
How often should I derma roll my scalp?
If you’re using a smaller needle size, between 0.20 and 0.50, you can microderm needle roll your scalp more often. This will depend on your scalp’s tolerance level, but a good general guideline is once every couple of days to once per week.
Tips for safely derma rolling your scalp
As with any new product, it’s always best to be cautious and start slow to see how your body responds.
Follow the recommendations below for a safer scalp derma rolling experience:
- Apply gentle pressure when rolling – about the pressure you would use applying a paint roller to a wall.
- Cleanse and disinfect your microderm needle roller between each use to eliminate bacteria – and don’t forget to disinfect the holder, too.
- Do not share your derma roller – even with your bestie!
- Only use on clean, dry hair
- Do not apply topical hair serums directly to your microderm needle roller -- apply directly to the scalp instead
- Replace your microderm needles every two to three months – or every 10 to 15 uses (it’s faster than you think!)
- Wear a hat to shade your scalp from the sun after rolling
