Hair loss is a growing anxiety for both men and women, especially with the increasing levels of stress, pollution and lifestyle imbalance. In recent years, many people have moved to home-utilized devices such as dermarollers in the hope of promoting hair regrowth. But does it actually work to use a dermaroller for hair growth – especially for those who face baldness? In this blog, we will find out what dermarollers are, their actual benefits, and whether they can help in severe hair loss or baldness.
What Is a Dermaroller?
A dermaroller is a hand tool in one hand covered with dozens of small, medical-grade needles. When rolled across the skin or scalp, it creates micro-injuries that stimulate the body’s natural healing reaction. This process is known as microneedling and is widely used in dermatology to improve skin texture, reduce acne scars and stimulate collagen.
When used on the scalp, the purpose of microneedling with a dermaroller is to improve the blood circulation and awaken the inactive hair follicle, and increase the absorption of topical products such as minoxidil. The device is available in separate needle lengths, usually from 0.25 mm to 1.5 mm, and should always be used with proper guidance to avoid injury or infection.
Benefits of Dermaroller for Hair Growth
Using a dermaroller on the scalp brings many possible benefits when it comes to addressing the early stages of hair thinning or shedding of hair:
Stimulates blood circulation: The microneedling process increases blood flow to the scalp, which improves the nutrients and oxygen supply to the hair follicles.
Increases absorption of Product: Topical treatments such as minoxidil or hair serum enters deep and more effectively when applied after dermarolling.
Activates inactive Follicles: For individuals experiencing early-phase hair thinning, microneedling can help “wake up” weak hair follicles and promotes regrowth.
Increases Collagen Production: This may improve scalp elasticity and overall skin health.
Limitations: Can It Reverse Baldness?
While dermarollers can be beneficial for stimulating hair regrowth in areas with thin or weak hair, it is important to understand their boundaries – especially in cases of baldness.
Dermarollers are not a cure for baldness. In advanced stages of hair loss (especially where the scalp is completely bald and hair follicles are no longer active), microneedling can’t restore the dead or lost hair. This is because dermarolling can only stimulate the existing hair follicles. If the follicle is dead or has been scarred due to Androgenetic alopecia or other chronic conditions, they cannot be revived with dermarolling alone.
Comparing Dermaroller vs Hair Transplant
For individuals experiencing baldness, hair transplant is the most reliable and permanent solution. While dermarollers can provide temporary support for hair health or as an addition to other treatments, they do not replace the success of a hair transplantation.
Hair transplant procedures such as FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) include surgically relocating the healthy hair follicles from a part of the scalp to bald areas. Unlike dermarollers, Hair transplants provide visible and permanent results, especially when performed by experienced dermatologists at Dr. Hanan Dermatology Speciality and specialty and Trichology clinic in Chennai.
Who Should Use a Dermaroller for Hair?
You may consider using a dermaroller if:
- You are in the early stages of hair thinning.
- You want to boost the effects of topical treatments like minoxidil.
- You are not ready for medical or surgical treatments.
- You have realistic expectations.
However, it is always recommended to consult a dermatologist before starting any microneedling routine to ensure it’s appropriate for your scalp condition and hair type.
How to Use a Dermaroller Safely
If you choose to try a dermaroller, keep these safety guidelines in mind:
- Always sanitize the device before and after use.
- Use only on a clean, dry scalp.
- Roll gently in multiple directions—horizontal, vertical, and diagonal.
- Avoid areas with wounds, infections, or severe inflammation.
- Limit use to once or twice a week.
- Follow with a topical product only if advised by a dermatologist.
Incorrect use can lead to infections, scalp irritation, or even hair breakage, so professional guidance is crucial.
Conclusion: Useful But Not a Cure
In short, a dermaroller for hair growth can be a helpful tool for stimulating circulation and increasing product absorption, especially for people dealing with mild to moderate hair thinning. However, it is not an effective treatment for baldness, where the hair follicles are already inactive or absent.
For those seeking a more lasting and permanent solution to baldness, a hair transplant remains the most effective approach. At Dr. Hanan Dermatology Speciality and Trichology Clinic in Chennai, we offer expert consultation, diagnosis, and customized hair restoration plans—including transplants, PRP therapy, and more.
If you’re unsure about whether a dermaroller is right for you, schedule a consultation with our dermatology team. We’ll assess your hair loss stage and recommend a personalized treatment plan that truly works.
Book Your Consultation Today!
For Personalised Treatment visit Dr. Hanan Clinic. Feel confident and proud with our expert care.
