How does a microneedle roller improve skin quality?
What is a microneedle roller?
A microneedle roller (also called a microneedle roller or dermaroller) is a handheld skincare device designed to improve the appearance and texture of your skin. It consists of a cylindrical roller with a handle and a head covered with 192 tiny needles arranged in eight rows. The needles are made using reactive ion etching on silicon or high-quality stainless steel. The needles are usually very small and range in length from 0.25 mm to 2.5 mm.
A microneedle roller is a skincare device. It has a handle on one end and a roller on the other end that is covered with many tiny needles.
Two separate studies in the 1990s explored the use of needles to treat scar tissue. But it wasn't until 2005 that the first study reported the use of a microneedle roller.
How does a microneedle roller work?
When a microneedle roller is rolled over the skin, the tiny needles on the roller puncture the skin.
The holes in the skin made by the needles are very small and belong to the epidermis. Therefore, this treatment is not considered invasive.
Puncturing the skin causes controlled skin damage. It does not cause actual damage to the outer layer of the skin. The needles help break down any scar tissue.
As a 2016 Trusted Source study on the technique explains, controlled damage to the skin causes bleeding in the epidermis. This triggers the body's wound healing response and the following occurs:
The skin releases substances that stimulate growth New blood vessels form in the skin The skin begins to produce more collagen Over the next 5 days, the collagen produced by the body is deposited in the treated area of skin. This helps the skin become firmer and may reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Studies have found that four microneedling treatments, performed one month apart, can increase skin collagen by 400%.
What is a microneedle roller used for?
Microneedle rollers were originally used by dermatologists to boost collagen production, treat facial scars, and rejuvenate the skin.
Now, it is also being used to deliver therapeutic drugs and vaccines through the skin.
In addition, it is also gaining popularity as a home remedy to improve the appearance of skin. Many people use it to combat signs of aging, such as:
- Loss of skin firmness
- Appearance of fine lines
- Appearance of wrinkles
- Some people also use it to shrink pores or, if their skin is oily, to reduce sebum production.
- Others try using a microneedle roller to improve stretch marks.
How to use a microneedle roller?
- Gently wash your face with a mild cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and oil. Pat your face dry with a clean towel.
- Divide your face into several areas (forehead, cheeks, chin, etc.) so you can roll more systematically.
- Start with gentle, even pressure. Roll the beauty roller horizontally, vertically, and diagonally across each area.
- Avoid rolling too fast or too hard, as this may damage your skin. After completing one direction, change the roller direction and repeat the process to ensure thorough coverage.
- Avoid rolling the same area too many times.
- Avoid rolling around the eyes, lips, and any areas of active acne. Do not use a beauty roller if you have an active skin infection, eczema, or severe rosacea.
- Be extra gentle on areas with thinner skin.
- Apply a moisturizing serum or cream immediately after rolling. This helps nourish and soothe the skin while making it easier for the product to be absorbed.
- Avoid direct sunlight for 3-5 days after using the roller.
- Use SPF 50 sunscreen whether you are indoors or outdoors.