Dermaroller for Hair Loss: Does It Work?

What is a Dermaroller?

The dermaroller, also known as microneedling, is a medical device that has revolutionised several areas of aesthetic dermatology. Picture a small cylindrical roller with hundreds of titanium microneedles measuring between 0.5 and 1.5 mm in length. Initially designed for facial aesthetic treatments, particularly to reduce wrinkles and acne scars, it has now found a new application in treating hair loss.

Its clever principle involves rolling the device over the scalp, creating thousands of micro-perforations invisible to the naked eye. These tiny lesions trigger a cascade of biological reactions beneficial to hair health. A study published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery demonstrated that these microperforations stimulate the production of growth factors and collagen, essential for proper hair follicle function (Singh & Yadav, 2016).

Dermaroller’s Mechanisms of Action: A Multi-faceted Approach

The efficacy of the dermaroller for hair is based on several complementary mechanisms of action. Understanding these processes helps us better appreciate this innovative tool’s therapeutic potential.

1. Wake-up Call for Follicular Stem Cells
   Think of microperforations as an alarm signal for your body. In response to these mini-traumas, the stem cells located in the bulge region of the hair follicle awaken from their dormant state. Previously in a resting phase, these cells become activated and begin a process of division and differentiation, giving rise to new hair cells.
2. Growth Factor Boost
   The healing process triggered by micro-injuries is accompanied by an increased release of growth factors essential to hair health. Among these, VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) plays a key role in encouraging the formation of new blood vessels around the follicles, thereby optimising their nutrition. Wnt proteins act as conductors of the hair growth cycle, particularly by promoting the anagen phase, the period of active hair growth.

A study published in the International Journal of Trichology highlighted a significant increase in the expression of genes involved in hair growth following using a dermaroller (Dhurat et al., 2013).

The Benefits of Dermaroller in the Battle Against Hair Loss

Research conducted in recent years has revealed significant benefits of the derma roller for hair in treating hair loss.

A study published in the International Journal of Trichology showed a spectacular improvement in hair density in patients using a dermaroller in conjunction with minoxidil treatment. After just 12 weeks of this combined treatment, the researchers observed an average increase of 91.4 hairs per cm², compared with just 22.2 hairs per cm² with minoxidil alone (Dhurat et al., 2013). These promising results open up new perspectives in the management of androgenetic alopecia.

The effectiveness of the dermaroller for hair is not limited to androgenetic alopecia. Research has also reported encouraging results in the treatment of alopecia areata, broadening the scope of this innovative technique.

Dermaroller vs. Hair Transplant: Which Solution is Preferable?

The dermaroller for hair offers interesting advantages for slowing the progression of androgenetic alopecia. However, hair transplants are the most effective and long-lasting solution for treating advanced hair loss. This comparison is particularly relevant for people with significant alopecia.

Modern hair transplant techniques, such as FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) or DHI (Direct Hair Implantation), offer a permanent solution for restoring bald areas. These procedures involve taking healthy hair follicles from a donor area and implanting them into the affected areas, directly addressing the problem rather than simply halting its progress.

Here are the main points of comparison:

• Long-term effectiveness: Hair transplants produce permanent and visible results, effectively treating alopecia. The dermaroller for hair requires regular use to maintain its effects and can only slow down hair loss.
• Treatment vs. prevention: Transplants actively treat hair loss by restoring the hairline, while the dermaroller is mainly used to prevent or slow the progression of alopecia.
• Visible results: The results of a hair transplant are more dramatic and rapid than those obtained with the dermaroller, particularly in cases of advanced alopecia.
• Long-term investment: Although the initial cost of a hair transplant is higher, it is more economical in the long term than the continued use of dermaroller and other topical treatments.

In many cases, a combined approach is optimal. Hair transplants restore areas already bald, while the dermaroller for hair is used as a complement to maintain the health of existing hair and slow the future progression of alopecia.

To determine the strategy best suited to your specific situation, a consultation with a hair specialist is essential. A personalised assessment will enable a tailor-made treatment plan to be drawn up, including a hair transplant, the use of the dermaroller, or a combination of different approaches to achieve the best possible results.

Instructions for Use: How to Use a Dermaroller Safely and Effectively

To get the most out of the dermaroller for hair, it’s essential to follow a precise protocol and take certain precautions. Here is a detailed user guide:

Preparation

• Start by carefully disinfecting the dermaroller with a 70% alcohol solution.
• Clean your scalp with a mild shampoo to remove any impurities.
• You may wish to apply a specific serum or lotion to prepare the scalp.

Technique for Use

• Divide your scalp into sections to ensure complete coverage.
• Roll the device in different directions: vertical, horizontal and diagonal.
• Apply light to moderate pressure: you should feel the needles without experiencing intense pain.
• Pass over each section 4 to 5 times, in each direction.

A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlighted the importance of the application technique on the effectiveness of the treatment (Fertig et al., 2018).

Risks and Precautions: What You Need to Know

Although the dermaroller for hair is generally well tolerated when used correctly, it is important to be aware of potential side effects.

A systematic review published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment highlighted temporary scalp irritation and transient redness, which usually disappear within 24 to 48 hours (Alster & Graham, 2018).

Before starting dermaroller treatment, it is strongly recommended that you consult a professional, especially if you have a specific medical history or are taking medication.

Scientific Evidence: What the Studies Say

Scientific evidence of the effectiveness of the dermaroller for hair in stimulating hair growth is accumulating and becoming increasingly convincing. A study referenced by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) demonstrated a clear improvement in hair density when dermaroller was used in combination with minoxidil, compared with minoxidil alone. After 12 weeks, the average increase was 91.4 hairs per cm² for the ‘dermaroller + minoxidil’ group, compared with just 22.2 hairs per cm² for the ‘minoxidil alone’ group (Dhurat et al., 2013).

Other research published in the International Journal of Trichology corroborates the efficacy of the dermaroller + minoxidil combination in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, with significantly greater hair growth compared to the use of minoxidil alone (Chandrashekar et al., 2015).

Conclusion: Dermaroller, a Promising Ally in the Fight Against Hair Loss

The dermaroller for hair is gradually establishing itself as an interesting therapeutic option in the fight against hair loss. It has numerous benefits: natural stimulation of hair growth, improved efficacy of topical treatments and minimal invasiveness. Scientific studies conducted to date confirm its potential, particularly when combined with other treatments such as minoxidil. However, it is important to bear in mind that the dermaroller is not a miracle solution and that results may vary from one person to another. In cases of severe alopecia, a hair transplant is often the most permanent solution.

References

Alster, T. S., & Graham, P. M. (2018). Microneedling: A review and practical guide. Dermatologic Surgery, 44(3), 397-404. https://doi.org/10.1097/DSS.0000000000001248

Chandrashekar, B., Yepuri, V., & Mysore, V. (2015). Alopecia areata-successful outcome with microneedling and triamcinolone acetonide. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 7(1), 63-64. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-2077.129989

Dhurat, R., Sukesh, M., Avhad, G., Dandale, A., Pal, A., & Pund, P. (2013). A randomized evaluator blinded study of effect of microneedling in androgenetic alopecia: A pilot study. International Journal of Trichology, 5(1), 6-11. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-7753.114700

Fertig, R. M., Gamret, A. C., Cervantes, J., & Tosti, A. (2018). Microneedling for the treatment of hair loss?. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 32(4), 564-569. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.14722

Singh, A., & Yadav, S. (2016). Microneedling: Advances and widening horizons. Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 7(4), 244-254. https://doi.org/10.4103/2229-5178.185468