Since trending in 2018, dermarolling has become a home staple in many people’s skincare routines. Hoping for similar outcomes to microneedling, these devices are used to improve the texture and tone of the skin, appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, scarring, and fade dark spots by stimulating collagen. Obviously, there is a massive difference in price here, comparing a dermaroller anywhere from $10-$300 to pro microneedling treatments costing $200-$1000 per session.
So, Can an at home device really do the same thing? I wont keep you waiting. No, it wont. At least not without the risk of damaging your skin even further.
Definition: known as Collagen Induction Therapy, micro-needling is a procedure that uses controlled micro punctures to the skin in order to trigger the natural repair process, stimulating collagen and elastin production. This will give the skin a firmer, tighter feel while being more bright and youthful as well.
It is recommended to receive a series of 3-5 treatments total, coming every 4-6 weeks.
Dermaroller vs Microneedling Pen:
How it works-
A professional microneedling pen uses needles to cause controlled punctures in the skin at a vertical angle. Alternatively, the at home dermaroller is less controlled, as the device is covered in spikes that will puncture the skin at various angles. A MAJOR part of this process is the depth of the needle. It can range from 0.1mm up to 2.5mm!
How big we talkin’?
Professionally speaking, the needle will most likely be at 0.5-1.5mm to improve the appearance of fine lines and scars. However, it can be a larger needle for deeper set wrinkles and stretch marks. For more cosmetic purposes, the needle is smaller and will usually be 0.2mm. Something to note: many cheaper dermarollers don’t always disclose the depth of the needle!
Major differences to consider:
- First, the price is significantly less, with micro-needling totaling up to $1000-$3500 for series of treatments, and a roller being as cheap as $10 (*I have also seen “professional” micro-needling pens online available to purchase costing only a few hundred bucks, pictured below)
- Next, a dermaroller is just not sterile. Even when you soak it in alcohol, it isn’t the same as the pens used in medical spas. As I said above, the roller creates punctures at an angle. This process creates “pits” that are more likely to cause infection, tears, and cause longer downtime.
- Lastly, a professional pen can get in delicate areas such as around the eyes, mouth, hands and chest. A dermaroller is not as precise, and may not be able to treat certain areas properly.
Here’s some at home dermaroller options at different prices:
Beauty Bio Glo Pro, $199 at Sephora
Stacked Skincare roller,$30 on Amazon
Sonia Kashuk Microneedling Roller, $10 at Target
Dr. Pen at home Microneedling Device, $130 on Amazon. This is one of the “professional” pens you can buy online, without being a licensed professional. Yes, this device will potentially work better than a dermaroller, however it can do SERIOUS damage in an untrained hand. This device goes up to 2.5mm depth!
Check out this image showing how the needle penetrates the skin at different depths:
Ultimately, when it comes to a professional microneedling treatment you’re paying for more than the product. In this day and age, everything is available online. But we still go to medical spas because the treatment is performed by someone educated and licensed in the topic. Be sure to ask about the medical spa’s equipment before you go, as some use rollers instead of the pens.
Don’t get it twisted: I AM recommending professional microneedling for those looking to reach various skincare goals. Be sure to consult a professional about your specific goals and decide if it is the right treatment for you!
The VAMPIRE FACIAL and how it influenced your dermaroller
I know we have all seen this infamous snap of Kim Kardashian…I personally believe this exact picture caused a plethora of people to go out and buy at home microneedling treatments! At least, maybe caused more brands to create these dermaroller products.
What is this picture?
It’s micro-needling with PRP, or platelet rich plasma. It improves healing, decreases duration of redness and swelling associated with microneedling.
Using plasma all comes down to growth factors. Growth Factors are a naturally occurring substances capable of stimulating cellular growth and healing. They regulate cell division and cell survival! Growth factors are becoming more popular in skin care products and treatments, with a high price tag. These are either engineered in a lab or from human stem cells.
If you want to watch the microneedling process with PRP, check out the video from Mixed Makeup!
Conclusion: Is it necessary? Yes and no. To summarize, It definitely works but most people won’t need this over a regular microneedling session. A study by Cutis in 2017 showed that although there isn’t a large amount of evidence yet, microneedling with PRP may improve cosmetic outcomes especially those with acne scarring. So, If you have deep scarring or more sensitive skin, this may be the better option for you.
Related blogs & Wrap-up
Check out other viral skincare products here or learn how to give yourself an at home facial without the dermaroller!
Lastly, regulations vary state by state as far as who can perform microneedling. Be sure to read up on regulations in your area to ensure the best experience possible.
Have you had microneedling done before? Did you throw out your dermaroller yet? Let me know below!
Sources: 2017 Study, Microneedling with PRP, Microneedling vs dermaroller, Microneedling
Very informational! I’m not real sure about this process. It has beautiful results but is rather intense.