May 17, 20233 min read

Dermarolling at Home vs. Microneedling

Dermarolling refers to the use of a handheld device with tiny needles to create microchannels in the skin, while microneedling involves a professional-grade device, such as the SkinPen Precision, to perform the treatment. In this blog post, we will compare dermarolling at home and microneedling with the SkinPen Precision device, discussing their benefits and differences to help you make an informed decision!

What is dermarolling/microneedling?

When it comes to improving skin texture, reducing scars and pigmentation, and promoting collagen production, dermarolling and microneedling are two popular techniques that have gained attention in recent years. Also known as collagen induction therapy, they are cosmetic procedures that have been used for skin rejuvenation and various dermatological conditions for several decades. The technique involves creating controlled micro-injuries in the skin using tiny needles, which stimulates the skin's natural healing process and promotes collagen production.

The concept of microneedling can be traced back to ancient times. Traditional Chinese medicine used a technique called "acupuncture" that involved inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. While acupuncture and microneedling are not the same, they both involve the use of fine needles for therapeutic purposes.

In the early 20th century, microneedling as a cosmetic treatment started to gain attention. In 1905, a German dermatologist named Ernst Kromayer used a motorized tattooing machine with multiple needles to treat scars and hyperpigmentation. His method, known as "needling," aimed to stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of the skin

In the 1990s, the concept of microneedling resurfaced with the introduction of a dermaroller device. This device consisted of a cylindrical drum with micro-needles attached to it. The dermaroller was rolled across the skin to create controlled punctures, stimulating collagen production.

Dermarolling at Home

Dermarolling at home involves using a roller device with numerous tiny needles to create controlled injuries in the skin. These micro-injuries trigger the skin's natural healing response, leading to collagen production and skin rejuvenation. It can be a great treatment to perform at home with several benefits such as:

Improved skin texture and tone
Reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Minimization of acne scars and hyperpigmentation
Enhanced absorption of skincare products

Dermarolling at home can be a cost-effective solution to a variety of skin concerns, however it does have some limitations to consider. These include:

Limited needle length options and precision
Risk of inadequate sterilization and potential infection
Potential for increased sensitivity and irritation
Potentially blunt needles which can create trauma
Less intense treatment compared to professional microneedling

Microneedling with SkinPen Precision Device

Over the years, the technology and techniques for microneedling have advanced. In recent decades, microneedling devices with adjustable needle lengths and automated systems have been developed, allowing for greater precision and customization in the treatment. The SkinPen Precision device, specifically, has become a popular microneedling tool. It was the first microneedling device to receive clearance from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of facial acne scars. It's a tried and tested treatment at Coral Aesthetics that we absolutely love! Having used a dermaroller at home also, the benefits of a professional SkinPen treatment are clear:

Greater treatment precision and customization
Deeper penetration with adjustable needle depth - targeting the correct layer and therefore getting better results
Enhanced collagen production and skin rejuvenation
More effective in treating scars and deeper wrinkles
FDA approved with lots of clinical evidence to support results
Sterile needles reduce the risk of infection
A topical numbing cream can be applied to improve comfort

Conclusion

Today, microneedling is widely used by dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and aestheticians for various skin concerns including acne scars, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, and uneven skin texture. It is considered a minimally invasive procedure with little downtime and is often used in combination with other treatments such as topical serums or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to enhance the results.

Both dermarolling at home and microneedling with the SkinPen Precision device offer benefits for skin rejuvenation and collagen production. While dermarolling at home provides a cost-effective option for mild skin concerns, professional microneedling with the SkinPen Precision device offers greater precision, safety and optimised results.