If you're an avid social media user, you've probably been inundated with hair-related content that's dominating your newsfeed. Microneedling with a derma roller is just one of the many hair care regimens trending on TikTok, but does it actually help stimulate hair growth?
According to Dr. Candace Spann, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of ReTress, the answer is yes — microneedling with a derma roller has been clinically proven to aid in hair growth. "When used properly, they [derma rollers] stimulate a wound-healing response which leads to the deposition of numerous growth factors and the stimulation of stem cells," explains Spann.
Along with Spann, we spoke with other dermatologists, a certified trichologist and hairstylist to help us find the best derma rollers for hair growth. We also included a tried-and-true editor favorite. Scroll down to score expert-recommended and editor-tested products that start at only $10.
The best derma rollers, recommended by experts
“I like this device due to the higher number of individual needles, the fact that it’s 0.25 millimeters and its all metal design,” explains Gaunitz. “This makes it easier to sterilize and not have lingering bacteria stuck on the surface that could cause scalp infection,” he says.
Spann is also a big fan of this microneedle as well, as she favors derma rollers that are made of titanium and stainless steel.
Spann recommends this Koi Beauty microneedle roller that's made from real titanium pins which are 0.5 millimeters in size. "The ideal derma rollers will have interchangeable, microneedling handpieces so that you can start with a shorter microneedle and gradually work your way up to a longer micro needle as tolerated," shares Spann.
"This dermaroller incorporates 540 high-strength medical-grade stainless steel needles which works to activate the scalp to promote blood flow and hair follicle health as well as help with product absorption," says Dr. Marisa K. Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist currently working in New York and New Jersey.
"This easy-to-use roller comes with its own carrying case and replacement heads, making it convenient for use," says Garshick. "It works especially well to help prepare the scalp for application of growth serums including the Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Hair Serum," she explains.
The best derma roller, tested by an editor
Budget-friendly editor pick: Lexi White Beauty Microneedle Derma Roller
I [Wise] recently tested this unisex derma roller after hearing about the product from social media. I was a bit timid to try at first, as I thought the blade would be super sharp — but it wasn't at all. This lightweight derma roller was easy to use and felt very relaxing on my scalp. It's no wonder why this roller has over 5,800 five-star ratings on Amazon.
Given that I only recently started using this derma roller, I can’t speak specifically to hair growth just yet — but I plan to keep using it to find out.
How to use a derma roller for hair growth
New York-based dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner previously told Shop TODAY that derma rolling is a microneedling treatment in which a rolling device uses tiny needles to create "controlled wounds" on the skin.
However, "it is important to be careful, as using too long of a micro needle can result in more significant injury," explains Spann. "That said, start with a 0.5 millimeter derma roller. Roll over the scalp in different directions to create micro channels," she continues.
"After a few weeks, the length of the micro needles can be increased to 1.0 millimeter as tolerated," recommends Spann. "For home derma rollers, microneedles should not exceed 1.0 millimeter," she suggests. Spann advises users to not use a derma roller more than once a week and says that it is important to cleanse the derma roller with alcohol before and after each use.
According to Spann, a topical serum can also be applied to the scalp, which she recommends using 24 hours after microneedling. "This will aid in penetration and absorption, and amplify results," she explains.
Are at-home derma rollers safe?
When it comes to finding a derma roller for microneedling to use at home, it is imperative that you find device that is safe and recommended by experts.
"If you choose to try derma rolling for hair growth, it is important to choose an at-home device with a reduced risk of infection," says Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, a top cosmetic and medical dermatologist in Newport Beach, California and New York City.
"Choose a reputable brand and look for a derma roller that employs sterilized needles made of stainless steel or titanium," suggests Murphy-Rose. "The best results are seen when combined with other hair growth promoting modalities such as topical or oral medications," she states.
Frequently asked questions
Spann cautions patients to avoid being overly aggressive with their microneedling. "Overly aggressive derma rolling can create injuries and lead to scarring of the scalp," she says. "This is the opposite effect of what is desired. The intent is to create a micro channel, not to use such a long, deep needle that it creates excessive injury or scarring," Spann explains.
If you're wondering if you need to clean your derma roller, the answer is yes. "It is best to clean the derma roller before and after each use using 70% isopropyl alcohol," suggests Garshick.
"It is best to then let the derma roller dry and then store the derma roller in a dry space to minimize moisture buildup," she says.
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How we chose the best derma rollers for hair growth
The Shop TODAY team selected the best derma rollers for hair growth by enlisting the recommendations of dermatologists, a trichologist and a hairstylist. We also included an editor tested favorite as well to help round out the list.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic such as derma rollers. We also make sure that all expert guidance and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Dr. Candace Spann is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of ReTress based in Las Vegas.
- William Gaunitz FWTS, is a certified trichologist and founder of Advanced Trichology based in Arizona.
- Dr. Marisa K. Garshick, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist currently working in New York and New Jersey. She also works at Cornell as an assistant clinical professor of dermatology.
- Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, is a top cosmetic and medical dermatologist specializing in facial rejuvenation in Newport Beach, California and New York City. She is also the founder of Skincare Junkie.
- Dr. Joshua Zeichner is a New York-based dermatologist.
