Microneedling with the help of derma rollers is pretty beneficial on its own. But with the help of serums and solutions, it becomes the lord of all skin treatments and therapies.
Of course, not all serums are good to use with a derma roller. Some can make your skin look glowy and airbrushed like a Snapchat filter, while others can make it even worse than before.
This article discusses which serums and solutions are best to pair with a derma roller before and after the treatment. We'll also talk about what other products you can use and what to avoid to get the best dermaroller results. Read on to know more!
What skincare should you use BEFORE dermarolling?
Some people prefer to apply their skincare solution before microneedling, some do it after, it is up to you! However, the three solutions below must be applied before the dermaroller.
If you’re using several skincares, like a cleanser and a soothing serum for example, it’s good to use the dermaroller in between to let your skin the time to absorb the different solutions separately. Here is a complete guide to Microneedling at home.
Cleanser
It's important to cleanse your skin and wash off all the dirt and excess oil before dermarolling. However, we don't recommend using cleansers that have alcohol and fragrances - you don't want this stuff penetrating deep into your skin when you use the derma roller.
Go for gentle cleansers that are free from harsh chemicals and alcohol. Try the Avène Antirougeurs Redness-Relief Refreshing Cleansing Lotion. It's free from parabens and fragrances, perfect for skin prone to redness and irritation.
Toner
If you're used to toning your skin after cleansing, go ahead and do it. However, try using an alcohol-free formula, like the Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Facial toner. This will help balance the PH of your skin and give a soothing effect.
But if you don't use toners on a daily basis, you don't need them to prep your skin for microneedling.
Numbing Cream
If you've got a low tolerance for pain, don't skip applying a numbing cream, especially if you're using needles larger than 0.5 mm.
What skincare should you use AFTER Dermarolling?
A derma roller won't prove to be so miraculous if you don't pair it with your favorite skincare serum. But wait - is your serum safe to use with a derma roller before and after treatment?
Not all serums are okay to use when microneedling your skin. On the other hand, some serums will work like magic and increase their efficacy if you apply them after using a derma roller.
Below, we'll discuss some of the best serums that give incredible derma roller results for different skin types. Don’t skip the last part of this article and find out whether your actual serum is good or not!
Copper Peptides
It might not be as popular as vitamin C, but copper peptide is one of the best skin-firming solutions out there. It helps reduce fine lines and fill in wrinkles by increasing collagen and elastin production.
A copper peptide solution also acts as an antioxidant for the skin and helps in healing scars. Since it's a pretty potent solution, we suggest you start using it a couple of weeks before dermarolling. This way, your skin can get used to it, and you can find out if it suits you well.
Not sure which brand to invest in? Try the Ordinary Buffet + Copper Peptides 1% solution. It's free from silicones and alcohol, making it perfect to use with derma rollers. Plus, it's pretty affordable, too.
Hyaluronic Acid
Your skin will most probably feel a bit dry after using a derma roller. You might be tempted to slather on some facial oils, but there's nothing better than a hyaluronic acid serum to quench your skin's thirst.
Formulated to provide deep hydration, your skin will feel super smooth and supple after a few applications of this serum. And when you pair it with dermarolling, its anti-aging and hydrating benefits become ten times more powerful.
The best part about hyaluronic acid serums is that they don't leave your skin greasy - it's just pure, rich hydration for the cellular level of your skin.
We suggest the Skinceuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Serum, the personal favorite of many dermatologists. It's a lightweight formula that also contains purple rice and licorice root extracts for elasticity and brightening effects.
Soothing Serums
If you have skin that irritates quickly, a soothing serum will be a skin-saver. Even people with normal skin should try to incorporate soothing serums in their skincare routine after dermarolling.
This is because a derma roller results in redness and dry skin, and a calming and soothing serum can help combat that. Such serums usually contain a blend of herbal goodies, such as camellia and chamomile extracts that help relieve redness and itchiness.
The MV Skincare Organic Soother Booster contains a blend of organic herbal oils that not only nourish and hydrate your skin but also calms it down and helps with redness and sensitivity. Hence, it's excellent to use after dermarolling to combat any irritation and redness.
You can also try the Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Serum. This Korean brand infuses a lot of herbal goodness plus hyaluronic acid in its formula, which helps soothe your skin and hydrate it deeply. It's also fragrance-free, which is exactly what you want for sensitive skin.
Niacinamide
If your skin concern is aging, dullness, and wrinkles, niacinamide can be your best friend. It's basically vitamin B3, which helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, adds radiance, and increases firmness.
Applying this to your skin after dermarolling will help it go deeper into your skin and work its magic.
The Skinceuticals Meta cell Renewal B3 emulsion contains niacinamide and a combination of peptides. Together, they give your skin the best anti-aging powers to fight back wrinkles, fine lines, and sagginess.
Vitamin C
We kept this for last because the use of Vitamin C after dermarolling is debatable. While its collagen-boosting and brightening effects are undeniable, it has irritating properties that might be too risky for use after dermarolling.
However, if your skin takes vitamin C well, go for it. But just to be on the cautious side, go for a hypoallergenic formula like that of DermaDocter Kadaku C serum. You can also try a water-based serum like the BeautyBio's Daily Vitamin C Day serum.
What skincare solutions should be ABSOLUTELY avoided?
Like we said, not every serum and skin care product is okay to use with dermarolling. In fact, there are a lot of things you should avoid before and after using a derma roller.
Facial Scrubs
A lot of people use facial scrubs after cleansing their skin, but it's a bad idea to do so before and after dermarolling. You don't want to open up your pores more than they should be before using a derma roller.
More importantly, you don't want to scrub and irritate your skin after dermarolling, which would end in a lot of redness and sensitivity.
AHAs/BHAs
AHAs and BHAs are hydroxy acids. AHAs act as exfoliants that peel away your skin while BHAs such as salicylic acid go deep into your skin to cleanse them.
They're very common in skincare products, and guess what? They're a big NO when it comes to using them before and after dermarolling.
Not only will they give you long-lasting redness, but they might even cause inflammation, swelling, and severe irritation. Derma rollers open up your skin channels with microneedles - you don't want irritating and exfoliating products to go that deep into your skin at this stage.
AHAs and BHAs include:
- Glycolic acid
- Lactic acid
- Salicylic acid
- Malic acid
- Mandelic acid
It's better to steer clear from all these for 4-5 days before and after dermarolling.
Retinol
Skin renewal serums that include vitamin A and its derivatives (retinol) may be too strong and harsh for use after dermarolling.
It might be tempting to use it, though, for its anti-aging properties, but this chemical might irritate the skin's deeper layers. Hence, it's better to avoid it, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Makeup
Yep, you read that right. It might sound like a bummer that you can't use makeup to cover up the redness that comes with derma rollers, but it's the bitter truth. You'll have to deal with the redness for 24 hours or at least 12 hours after dermarolling.
This is because makeup contains lots of chemicals, alcohol, toxins, and fragrances. And even though the skin pores start closing up a couple of hours after dermarolling, they're still pretty wide open for makeup products to seep in for the next several hours.
When you do use makeup, try using mineral makeup or makeup meant for sensitive skin that prevents flare-ups and irritation.
Comedogenic Oils
Some oils are known to clog up pores and cause whiteheads, blackheads, and acne. These include coconut, avocado, and marula oil.
Many facial serums and elixirs contain comedogenic oils, so it's a good idea to check their ingredient list before applying them on your face. Even if your skin handles oils well, it's still best to stay away from coconut oil as it can cause breakouts even in the best of skins.
Try water-based serums like hyaluronic acid for the dryness that comes after dermarolling.
Tanning Lotions
No, you can't apply tanning lotions or any such product for at least three to four days after microneedling.
On that note, we also suggest staying away from sun exposure for at least 24 hours after using a derma roller. Make sure you give your skin enough time to heal and process the treatment before you head out.
Conclusion:
Using a derma roller results in radiant and luminous skin. It's also super effective in reducing scarring. However, it's not meant for all skin types and definitely requires a lot of precautionary measures.
But as long as you stay away from the sun and nourish your skin with hydrating serums, you’re good to go. And yes, make sure to avoid harsh serums, makeups, and other chemical-ly for better results.
FAQs
What should I use before and after Dermarolling? ›
What should I apply after dermarolling? As mentioned above, serums with Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are preferred post-rolling. You'll want to avoid anything that could potentially irritate your skin, such as makeup, AHAs and BHAs, products containing artificial ingredients, and more.
What should I apply after Dermarolling? ›Aftercare. After the rolling is complete, apply the same serum again or choose another hydrating or anti-aging product. Just make sure the ingredients list doesn't include retinols or vitamin C. As your skin may be more sensitive after derma rolling, it's a good idea to wear sunscreen.
How do I get the best results from dermaroller? ›Trying the following tips and best practices may help to improve a person's dermarolling results: take vitamin A and C supplements in the month before treatment to boost collagen production. use ice packs after treatment if experiencing any pain. apply skin serums or anti-aging moisturizers after treatment.
What should I use before Dermarolling? ›When the needles exceed 0.5mm in length or you have a low tolerance of pain, a numbing cream should be applied before the procedure. A popular choice for a numbing cream before microneedling is a combination of benzocaine, lidocaine, tetracaine (BLT).
What serum should I use with a derma roller? ›Hyaluronic acid serums are some of the most effective products that you can put on freshly-rolled skin since its primary ingredient and its effects are extremely potent in helping in skin repair, even hours after treatment. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that's found in the body's connective tissue.
Do you put serum on before or after derma rolling? ›If using a serum with your derma roller, apply the product to your face before getting down to business. The rolling method involves three parts: vertical, horizontal, and diagonal movements. Start by rolling the derma roller up and down your forehead, cheeks, and chin, making sure not to apply too much pressure.
What should I avoid after dermarolling? ›DON'T Skip the Aftercare
Make sure to use a high-SPF sunscreen if you plan on going out, and try not to expose your skin to harsh sunlight for at least 48-hours. Don't workout or sweat for at least 24-hours after dermarolling, and don't exfoliate or use acids for at least 3 days. Wait until your skin has HEALED.
What Serum Should I Use After Microneedling? Hyaluronic acid serums should be used post-microneedling. Use this from days 1 to 14 after microneedling to hydrate and replenish the skin.
Should you use a serum with derma roller? ›It's recommended that you use a serum (or some similar "priming" product) with a derma-roller. It acts as a buffer between the needles and your skin, and even increases the absorption.
Should I moisturize after dermarolling? ›Specialist serums and oils designed for derma rolling can be applied at this point to improve the results. So if you cant use a water based moisturiser after a microneedling treatment then can you moisturise after dermarolling? Yes using the correct oils or serums to aid the collagen stimulation.
What happens if you dont disinfect derma roller? ›
If you don't clean the derma roller, it can grow bacteria, which transfers to your skin the next time you use it.
Can I use Vitamin C serum after dermarolling? ›But can you use a vitamin C serum with a derma roller treatment? As it turns out, it's not a good idea. Because the active ingredient in vitamin C serum goes underneath the skin, it can drastically slow down the healing process from your derma roller treatments, and may even ruin the entire process altogether.
What kind of oil do you use for derma roller? ›Cedarwood essential oil to alleviate scalp dryness
Combining the dermarolling action with the emollient-like cedarwood oil can help boost circulation, inhibit dryness and flakiness of the scalp and regulate sebum, which leads to excessive greasiness.
Please wash your face with a gentle cleanser and do not wear any lotion, perfume, or serums when you go to your appointment.
Do you put anything on your skin before microneedling? ›On the day of your treatment, do not apply any makeup, lotion or sunscreen to the treatment area. If you're targeting your face, wash your face with a gentle facial cleanser before you come in for your appointment. If you are targeting your body, wash with a gentle soap that will not irritate your skin.
What do I put on my face before microneedling? ›Hyaluronic acid serums are the best and most commonly used type for microneedling because of their hydrating properties. Other great alternatives include peptides, ceramides, and EGF. Just make sure to avoid retinoids, Vitamin C, and other serums that contain acids (AHA, BHA, and lactic acid).
Do you put hyaluronic acid on before or after derma rolling? ›Hence, it's excellent to use after dermarolling to combat any irritation and redness. You can also try the Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Serum. This Korean brand infuses a lot of herbal goodness plus hyaluronic acid in its formula, which helps soothe your skin and hydrate it deeply.
Which hyaluronic acid is best for microneedling? ›- Best Soothing Hyaluronic Acid Serum: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
- Best Hyaluronic Acid Gel-Serum: Vichy Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum.
- Best Drugstore Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
As with most skincare treatments, the amount of time it takes to see results can vary depending on your skin type, the dermaroller you're using, and how often you use it. It may take between two to six months to see results. As far as repeating the procedure goes, this is really up to you.
When should I use serum after dermaroller? ›So when is it safe to use a hyaluronic acid serum post-derma roller treatment? Most experts would recommend using HA products directly after treatment, or at least 24 to 48 hours after the microneedling session.
How hard should I press dermaroller? ›
No need for you to press it too hard because you may induce pain. Apply just enough pressure as you can comfortably tolerate. Take extra care when rolling underneath your eyes and lip area because these areas are too sensitive.
Can I use oils after dermarolling? ›Women who use derma rollers are often concious about what they apply to their hair post the process. However, applying topical solutions like oil or minoxidil is completely okay after derma rolling. Oiling after using a derma roller ensures your skin absorbs around 80% of the nutrients in the oil.
Can I use derma roller everyday? ›How Often Should You Derma Roll? According to Dr. Zeichner, derma rollers can initially be used every few days. "If your skin can tolerate the treatment without any issues, advance to every other day, then eventually every day," he explains.
Can I wash my face the day after dermarolling? ›The short answer is yes you can wash your face after dermarolling, but please wait 6 hours to let your skin heal. [1] Washing immediately after the procedure will reduce the beneficial impact of dermarolling.
What should I apply immediately after microneedling? ›Hyaluronic acid can be used following microneedling, and it's even recommended in some cases to help stimulate collagen production after your procedure. If your skin feels dry, it's generally safe to apply coconut oil as an emollient to lock in moisture and hydrate your face after microneedling.
Do and don'ts after microneedling? ›- Do not take any anti-inflammatory medications for one week after the procedure.
- Do not use ice on your face, and avoid using arnica/bromelain. ...
- Avoid sun tanning and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks. ...
- Use a painkiller, such as Tylenol, if you experience any soreness.
First Few Days: Continue gentle cleansing and moisturizing over the next few days. Avoid scrubbing, rubbing, or using exfoliants for 1 week. Apply sunscreen daily and you can use makeup if needed starting the day after treatment.
What happens if you use vitamin C after microneedling? ›Using ingredients like glycolic acid, retinol and vitamin C too soon after microneedling can irritate your skin and prolong the healing process. For this reason, it is best to wait two to three days after a microneedling session to start using products with these ingredients again.
How often do I apply hyaluronic acid after microneedling? ›We recommend our Hyaluronic Acid Serum or Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar, available for purchase. It is important to apply every 3 hours for the first 24 hours after the microneedling. These can also be continued twice a day for the first week.
Can I apply coconut oil after dermarolling? ›Coconut oil is too greasy to use after dermarolling. It is a very thick and well known to clog the pores. This makes it more likely it will cause rashes post treatment. It can be an effective cosmetic oil but it is better not to use it straight after microneedling.
What should I put on my face before microneedling? ›
Hyaluronic acid serums are the best and most commonly used type for microneedling because of their hydrating properties. Other great alternatives include peptides, ceramides, and EGF. Just make sure to avoid retinoids, Vitamin C, and other serums that contain acids (AHA, BHA, and lactic acid).
What should I avoid after dermarolling? ›Avoid exfoliants, retinols, and vitamin C
Avoid any skin care product that contains harsh chemicals meant to exfoliate. Avoid anything that's scented, and don't use glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Retinol and vitamin C serum should be avoided for at least the first 48 hours after microneedling.
Cedarwood essential oil to alleviate scalp dryness
Combining the dermarolling action with the emollient-like cedarwood oil can help boost circulation, inhibit dryness and flakiness of the scalp and regulate sebum, which leads to excessive greasiness.
Specialist serums and oils designed for derma rolling can be applied at this point to improve the results. So if you cant use a water based moisturiser after a microneedling treatment then can you moisturise after dermarolling? Yes using the correct oils or serums to aid the collagen stimulation.
What serum is best after microneedling? ›What Serum Should I Use After Microneedling? Hyaluronic acid serums should be used post-microneedling. Use this from days 1 to 14 after microneedling to hydrate and replenish the skin.
Do and don'ts after microneedling? ›- Do not take any anti-inflammatory medications for one week after the procedure.
- Do not use ice on your face, and avoid using arnica/bromelain. ...
- Avoid sun tanning and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks. ...
- Use a painkiller, such as Tylenol, if you experience any soreness.
Please wash your face with a gentle cleanser and do not wear any lotion, perfume, or serums when you go to your appointment.
How many minutes should you Dermaroll? ›Also, apply a gentle amount of pressure and don't overdo it. In total, derma rolling takes about 5-10 minutes (spend at least a minute on each section of the face) so it's a super short process.
What happens if you dont disinfect derma roller? ›If you don't clean the derma roller, it can grow bacteria, which transfers to your skin the next time you use it.
Can I use oils after Dermarolling? ›Women who use derma rollers are often concious about what they apply to their hair post the process. However, applying topical solutions like oil or minoxidil is completely okay after derma rolling. Oiling after using a derma roller ensures your skin absorbs around 80% of the nutrients in the oil.
Can I apply moisturizer after microneedling? ›
First Few Days: Continue gentle cleansing and moisturizing over the next few days. Avoid scrubbing, rubbing, or using exfoliants for 1 week. Apply sunscreen daily and you can use makeup if needed starting the day after treatment.
How often do I apply hyaluronic acid after microneedling? ›We recommend our Hyaluronic Acid Serum or Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar, available for purchase. It is important to apply every 3 hours for the first 24 hours after the microneedling. These can also be continued twice a day for the first week.
How often should you derma roll? ›The frequency of your treatments will depend on the length of your derma roller's needles and your skin's sensitivity. If your needles are shorter, you may be able to roll every other day, and if the needles are much longer, you may need to space out treatments every three to four weeks.
Can I use Vitamin C serum after Dermarolling? ›But can you use a vitamin C serum with a derma roller treatment? As it turns out, it's not a good idea. Because the active ingredient in vitamin C serum goes underneath the skin, it can drastically slow down the healing process from your derma roller treatments, and may even ruin the entire process altogether.
Which hyaluronic acid is best for microneedling? ›- Best Soothing Hyaluronic Acid Serum: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
- Best Hyaluronic Acid Gel-Serum: Vichy Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum.
- Best Drugstore Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
Use Your Dermaroller
No need to press too hard or put yourself in pain—apply as much pressure as you can comfortably tolerate. How often you dermaroll is dependent on the size of your needles, as well as your skin type. If your dermaroller has longer needles, you may only need to dermaroll once per month.