The derma roller is a small roller that has numerous needles whose function is to make holes in the skin, a procedure technically called microneedling. The goal of these microscopic holes is to help the skin produce more collagen, a protein that helps keep the epidermis beautiful and healthy. They can also dilate pores to better absorb serums and moisturizers. This treatment is usually performed on the face, but it can also be done on other areas of the body, especially those with scars. Using the derma roller is quite simple, although both the skin and the device must be cleaned before and after use.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Clean the Derma Roller and Skin
Step 1. Disinfect the device before using it
Since the needles will need to penetrate the skin, they need to be disinfected before starting. Soak the derma roller in 70% isopropyl alcohol for 10 minutes.
- 70% isopropyl alcohol is preferable to 99% isopropyl alcohol, as it does not evaporate as quickly.
- Left to soak for 10 minutes, remove and shake it to eliminate excess alcohol. Let it air dry for a few minutes.
Step 2. Wash your face with warm water
It is important to start the treatment on clean skin. For example, you could use a mild foaming facial cleanser to thoroughly cleanse the skin. For other parts of the body, a stick of soap or shower gel would also work. The point is that the procedure should be performed on clean skin and to wash it you can safely use your usual cleanser.
However, do not use too aggressive products. Therefore, avoid face cleansers containing ingredients such as salicylic acid. Go for a gentler product
Step 3. Disinfect the skin if you use longer needles
The longer needles are designed for deeper penetration, which can lead to an infection. In addition to the device, you should also disinfect the skin if you use needles longer than half a millimeter. Gently rub 70% isopropyl alcohol over the entire surface you will be treating.
Part 2 of 3: Roll the Derma Roller over the Affected Area
Step 1. Start by applying a numbing cream if you prefer
Most people are not sensitive to needles. However, those who are sensitive to pain first can use a numbing cream, especially if the needles are a millimeter or longer. Massage a lidocaine cream on the affected area and let it sit for 20 minutes before starting to pass the device.
Eliminate excess cream before passing the device
Step 2. Swipe the device vertically
It starts on one edge of the zone. Massage it from top to bottom. Avoid the eye area if you wipe it on your face. Lift it up and go over it over the same area, repeating the procedure six times in total. Move the derma roller and repeat. Continue until you have treated the entire area.
You may notice light bleeding if you use needles that are a millimeter or longer. However, it is best to stop the procedure if the stings bleed more than necessary, as you may need smaller needles
Step 3. Pass the derma roller horizontally
Starting from the top or bottom of the area to be treated, pass the derma roller horizontally. Lift it up and pass it over the same area. Repeat six times in total. Move it slightly down or up and repeat the process until you have treated the entire area.
You can also do the procedure diagonally, but you risk treating your face unevenly
Step 4. Stop the procedure after two minutes, especially on the face
With microneedling there is a risk of overdoing it, especially on the face. Consequently, it is best to limit each session to less than two minutes if possible.
Step 5. Use the derma roller more or less every other day
Using it too often can cause inflammation. Try using it a maximum of three to five times a week, making sure to let your skin rest between sessions. For example, some people only get this treatment every six weeks.
Part 3 of 3: Complete the Procedure
Step 1. Rinse your face
Rinse your face after the treatment is complete. Since you've already washed it, you can use plain water, but you need to remove any blood residue. You can also use a mild cleanser if you want.
Step 2. Moisturize the skin
At the end of the treatment it may be useful to use a moisturizing product. For example, a tissue mask can help you hydrate and heal your skin. Alternatively, apply an anti-aging or anti-wrinkle serum at the end of the procedure. These serums penetrate deeper into the skin thanks to the microscopic holes they have created.
Step 3. Clean the device with water and dish soap
Wash the derma roller using dish soap and hot water. Dishwashing detergent is preferable to other soaps to remove blood particles and cells from the derma roller. Pour the detergent and water into a clean container, then shake the device into the solution.
Step 4. Disinfect the derma roller after use
Shake it to get rid of excess water. Put the device in 70% isopropyl alcohol. Let it sit for 10 minutes before shaking it to remove the alcohol. Let it air dry before putting it away.
