Adding a derma roller to your hair treatment routine can take your results to the next level, especially if you’re already using a topical treatment like Minoxidil Spray.
Derma rolling is a type of microneedling, which uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. These micro-injuries are thought to encourage hair growth and improve the absorption of topical treatments. Research shows that combining microneedling with treatments like minoxidil or finasteride can lead to better results.
Here’s everything you need to know about why it’s worth adding — and how to use it properly.
Why you should add a derma roller to your haircare routine
1. Improves the absorption of topical ingredients
Ingredients like minoxidil or finasteride need to cross the skin barrier to reach the hair follicles when applied to the scalp. Microneedling creates micro-channels in the skin, helping improve the absorption of these active ingredients.
2. Stimulates hair follicles
The micro-injuries caused by microneedling activate the skin’s natural wound-healing response. This increases the expression of hair growth factors like VEGF, β-catenin, and Wnt3a, helping to extend the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle.
3. Improves blood flow to follicles
Like minoxidil, regular microneedling can help create a better environment for healthy hair growth by boosting blood flow to the scalp and encouraging follicle regeneration.
How to use a derma roller
Prep
Disinfect your derma roller by soaking it in a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution for 10–15 minutes before each use. Rinse with hot water and let it air dry on a clean paper towel.
Use
If your hair is long, part it into sections to ensure better coverage. Roll the device gently over your scalp vertically and horizontally, lifting it between each pass.
There’s no need to roll back and forth over the same spot or apply heavy pressure — this increases the risk of irritation without improving results.
Apply your treatment
If you’re using a topical treatment like minoxidil, you can apply it after rolling. Some people prefer to wait 20–30 minutes, especially if they experience sensitivity.
Cleaning and storing
Disinfect your derma roller again after use and store it safely in its protective case.
You should replace your derma roller after around 3 months, as the needles will blunt over time and become less effective.
How often should you derma roll?
This depends on the needle length:
- 0.25–0.5mm: Every 2–3 days
- 0.5–1.0mm: 1–2 times per week
- 1.0mm+: Once per week
Shorter needles are generally better suited for at-home use. That’s why many people opt for a 0.25mm roller, which balances effectiveness with a lower risk of irritation.
What needle length works best?
Research suggests that shorter needles are often more effective — and better tolerated — when used alongside minoxidil.
In one study, participants using 0.6mm needles saw greater improvements in hair count and thickness compared to those using 1.2mm needles, even though both groups were using 5% minoxidil.
For most people, sticking with shorter needles and staying consistent tends to give the best results.
All of our blog articles are reviewed by our Medical Director before publication.
