Dermarolling, also known as microneedling, is a popular skin treatment in which a roller with small needles is rolled over the skin to create microscopic holes. This process stimulates the skin’s natural regeneration, promotes the production of collagen and elastin, and helps to improve skin texture. Dermarolling is often used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, pigmentation spots and enlarged pores. It is an effective, non-invasive treatment that can be used both in clinics and at home.

What is dermarolling?

With dermarolling, a special roller covered with hundreds of fine needles is gently rolled over the skin. These needles make small holes in the skin, which encourages the skin to repair itself by producing new cells. This process stimulates natural collagen production, which is essential for youthful, firm skin.

Microneedles vary in length, depending on the desired result and the area of skin being treated. Short needles are often used for superficial skin problems such as fine lines and pigmentation spots, while longer needles can be used for deeper skin problems such as scars or stretch marks.

Benefits of dermarolling

Stimulation of collagen production: dermarolling promotes the production of collagen and elastin, making the skin firmer and smoother.
Improved skin texture: this treatment helps to reduce fine lines, wrinkles and large pores, and creates a more even skin texture.
Treatment of scars and stretch marks: microneedling can be effective in fading acne scars, surgical scars and stretch marks, because it helps the skin to renew itself.
Reducing pigmentation spots and hyperpigmentation: dermarolling stimulates cell renewal, which can help to fade pigmentation spots and an uneven skin tone.
Better absorption of skincare products: after dermarolling, the skin is better able to absorb active ingredients from skincare products, such as serums, which increases the effectiveness of these products.

Who is dermarolling suitable for?

Dermarolling is suitable for a wide range of skin types and skin problems. It can be effective for:

Fine lines and wrinkles
Acne scars or other scars
Enlarged pores
Pigmentation spots and hyperpigmentation
Stretch marks
Dull skin in need of renewal

However, people with active skin infections, such as acne or rosacea, or certain skin conditions such as eczema, should be careful and may need to avoid this treatment until their skin problems have cleared up.

How does dermarolling work?

During a dermarolling session, the roller is gently rolled over the skin. This creates controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the body to produce new, healthy skin cells. After the treatment, the skin may be temporarily red or sensitive, but this usually fades within a few hours to days, depending on the depth of the needles used.

The treatment can be done at home with a dermaroller for home use, but professional treatments in a clinic or by a dermatologist use deeper needles for more intensive results. Professional treatments are often offered as a course, with several sessions spread over a few months for optimal results.

Recovery and aftercare after dermarolling

After dermarolling, the skin may be red, sensitive and slightly swollen, similar to mild sunburn. This is normal and usually fades within a few days. It is important to follow these aftercare instructions after the treatment:

Hydration and protection: Keep the skin well hydrated and avoid harsh skincare products. Always apply a high SPF sunscreen, as the skin is more sensitive to sunlight after the treatment.
Avoid make-up: It is advisable not to wear make-up for the first 24 to 48 hours after the treatment, so the skin can breathe and heal.
Use of serums: Straight after the treatment, a serum with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C or other skin-repairing ingredients can be applied, as the skin is very able to absorb active ingredients at that moment.

Difference between home use and professional dermarolling

Although you can do dermarolling at home with a dermaroller, these home rollers differ from the professional equipment used in clinics. Home rollers usually have shorter needles (mostly 0.25 to 0.5 mm), which are suitable for superficial treatments and improving skin texture.

Professional dermarolling or microneedling in a clinic often uses needles of 1 to 2.5 mm, which is more effective for deeper skin concerns such as scars, stretch marks and deeper wrinkles. In addition, the treatment is carried out in a controlled, sterile environment, which increases safety and effectiveness.

Possible risks and side effects

Dermarolling is generally safe, but there are some possible side effects to take into account:

Redness and irritation: This is a normal reaction to the treatment and usually disappears within a few days.
Infection: Because the skin is pierced, there is a small risk of infection, especially if the dermaroller is not properly sterilised.
Hyperpigmentation: In rare cases, the treatment can cause hyperpigmentation, especially in people with darker skin or with excessive sun exposure after the treatment.

Please note: Kliniek het Bolwerk does not carry out this treatment

Kliniek het Bolwerk does not perform dermarolling or microneedling treatments. Dermarolling is a non-invasive skin treatment in which fine needles stimulate the skin to produce collagen and elastin.

This information is included in our knowledge base to give general information about various skin treatments. For dermarolling or microneedling, you can go to a specialised skin clinic or a qualified skin therapist.

Conclusion

Dermarolling is an effective, non-invasive treatment that can help improve skin texture, reduce scars, fine lines and pigmentation spots, and stimulate collagen production. It can be done at home for milder results, or professionally for a more intensive treatment of stubborn skin concerns. By stimulating the skin's natural healing, dermarolling offers a safe way to achieve smooth, radiant skin.

Want to know more? Read more about fillers or lip fillers at Kliniek het Bolwerk.