15 best derma roller tools for tighter, brighter and smoother skin
If you’re keen to tackle texture, fine lines and acne scarring, a derma roller may be the missing piece in your skincare routine. This high-tech tool uses super fine needles to roll across skin and prick the surface, which then speeds up its healing process, increases collagen production, can enhance the performance of your facial serums, improve the appearance of wrinkles and smooth acne scars. They can also be used on the scalp and rolled across men’s beards to stimulate hair growth. We’d argue that they’re the ultimate multitasker.
While the thought of needles may have you squirming, it’s a minimally invasive treatment that in a nutshell can combat many skin issues that your topical products simply can’t. Think of it as a super-booster for your carefully curated skincare routine.
Best derma rollers at a glance:
- Best derma roller overall: FaceGym Youthful Active Roller, £62, Cult Beauty
- Best derma roller for more youthful skin: Sarah Chapman Meso-Melt Infusion System, £138, Space NK
- Best derma roller for face and body: Skin Gym Face and Body Micro-Needling Roller Set, £55, Selfridges
- Best affordable derma roller: Hairburst Hair Derma Roller, £17, Sephora
Skip to: What do derma rollers do? What are the benefits? | Do derma rollers help regrow hair? | Does a derma roller help acne? | Are derma rollers safe to use? | What is the best technique to use a derma roller and how often should I use it?
However, not all at-home derma rollers are made equal, and there’s a few things to consider before adding one to your shopping basket. Microneedling tools are typically used in a clinic setting whereas derma rolling is an at-home treatment.
Derma rollers are made with varying needle lengths, ranging from 0.1mm to 0.5mm and if you’re a beginner, start with a needle depth of 0.1-0.3mm to be safe. Microneedling in clinics use a needle depth as high as 2.5mm, so the results you’ll get from doing it yourself won’t be as dramatic, but there can be less risk of irritation or injury with a smaller needle. All skin types and skin tones can benefit from derma rolling, but if you’re prone to severe acne, psoriasis, rosacea or eczema, it’s best to speak to your GP or a dermatology expert before using one, just to be on the safe side.
Some derma rollers come complete with a skincare routine and a specific serum to apply after treatment, while others provide only the tool. You can then use your favourite serums as normal after, however it’s best to avoid exfoliating products with active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C to avoid irritation. Instead opt for a hyaluronic acid or moisturiser to maintain hydration levels and prevent water loss. You should also make sure to use a good sunscreen afterwards, as derma rolling can increase your chances of getting an unwanted sunburn.
Meet the experts:
- Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant dermatologist at Self London
- Dija Ayodele, Aesthetician, founder of West Room Aesthetics and the Black Skin
Directory - Dr Bessam Farjo, Hair transplant surgeon and hair loss expert at Farjo Hair Institute
What do derma rollers do? What are the benefits?
“Derma rollers are small, handheld devices with a shallow needle coating that you can roll across the skin,” explains Ayodele. “The benefits of derma rolling/micro-needling are that it stimulates collagen, which helps rejuvenate the skin. It plumps skin, gives a smoother texture and is really good for acne scarring, breaking up pigmentation, blemishes, blackheads and dark marks.”
According to Dr Mahto, there are many different types of micro-needling devices that exist on the market: “There are manual rolling devices (such as a derma roller), as well as electrical pens, for example SkinPen. Both of these types of devices work on the idea that by inducing a controlled injury to the skin (caused by the needles), a trigger response in the form of wound-healing will occur and as a result, collagen production will be increased.”
She explains that this can be beneficial because collagen is the main protein in our skin. “It gives our skin both support and structure – as we get older we also start to lose collagen (usually from around our mid-twenties) which can result in some of the signs we typically associate with skin ageing such as skin laxity, fine lines and wrinkles.”
Do derma rollers help regrow hair?
According to Dr Bessam, micro-needling has been used in recent years as a treatment for thinning and hair loss. “This can be done in a number of ways - It can be either done using a derma roller, rolling pins of various depths all over the scalp, or sometimes it’s done by a mechanise pen like a device that stamps needles in and out of the scalp.” He goes on to say, “It is thought that micro needling works by stimulating a wound that when heals, stimulates collagen formation while also increasing blood flow. There is certainly scientific research that links wound healing with hair growth.”
Does a derma roller help acne?
Yes and no. Dr Mahto reveals that microneedling, when done properly in a clinical setting, can be very beneficial for improving skin texture for those with acne scarring when used on non-active acne. This means if you have had breakouts in the past but they’re no longer regular and your skin is typically clear. However if microneedling/derma rolling is used on active acne – AKA if you have cysts, whiteheads, bumps, inflammation etc - then it can actually risk acne scarring.
Are derma rollers safe to use?
“Microneedling is a safe and effective treatment for those with and without specific skin issues. It is generally well tolerated. Depending on the area which requires treatment and the extent and severity of the condition, it can take anything between five to 60 minutes to perform safely. Prior to the treatment, a numbing cream is applied to the skin to ensure the patient is comfortable.
The needling device is then passed over the skin multiple times,” says Dr Mahto. She says it’s not unexpected for skin to be red, feel puffy or tight after the procedure (particularly if you have sensitive skin), but this should settle within a day. “Often multiple sessions are required for best results and these are usually carried out 4 to 6 weeks apart.”
To get the most effective results from skin needling, Dr Mahto recommends speaking to a medical professional who is highly experienced in managing the skin and its issues, such as a consultant dermatologist with an interest in aesthetics. “It’s important to avoid treating areas of active acne and to know how to treat complications from the procedure, such as a flare up of chronic inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema or seborrhoeic dermatitis. Check your practitioner’s credentials and if you have skin of colour, be aware you may need pre-treatment to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation following the procedure.”
What is the best technique to use a derma roller and how often should I use it?
Ayodele strongly advises to only undergo derma rolling or microneedling treatments within a clinic setting. “It's very difficult to keep derma rollers clean and in a controlled hygienic environment, and at home, you just can't guarantee the amount of pressure that's going to be used on the skin, so you're not necessarily going to get even results at all.”
That said, she is aware people often turn to derma roller kits for home use but recommends to proceed with caution. “If you must use a derma roller at home, make sure it's completely clean to start with and you have sterilised it to really make sure it's as safe as possible. Always use it on a clean face and like we would in a clinic, use movements that are horizontal, vertical and diagonal.” She also warns to be careful on areas like the nose and forehead which are less fleshy and can hurt.
“Microneedling is an effective treatment option in the right setting, with the right professional,
after a proper consultation for suitability and to manage expectations of what can be achieved,”
Dr Mahto added. She also doesn’t advocate for the use of at-home devices as they can increase risk of infection and potentially worsen any skin issues. “There is also a likelihood the needle depth is not right for the issue you are trying to tackle. Finally, you don’t know the basic safety standard of the home device. ”
Some also stand by pairing derma rolling with LED face masks to use blue and red light therapy to reduce inflammation and help activate your skin cells' healing response. However, make sure to consult an expert before doing so.
Scroll to view our edit of the best derma rollers to add to elevate your skincare routine…
FaceGym Youthful Active Roller, £62, Cult Beauty
Why we love it: FaceGym is all about looking after your skin the same way you look after your body, and its Youthful Active Roller is designed to target fine lines, redness and lacklustre complexions. Thanks to the super fine microneedles infused with brightening ingredient niacinamide, it can smooth imperfections, wrinkles and pores as part of your evening skincare routine. On cleansed skin simply roll over your face and neck in upwards motions for five to ten minutes, apply your favourite serum, then roll for a further five minutes until the roller head is smooth. FaceGym recommends using this once a week for maximum benefits and every box comes with two replacement heads and a special QR code to scan for a step-by-step tutorial. We’re obsessed.
Save when you shop for the best derma rollers with these Cult Beauty discount codes.
Sarah Chapman Meso-Melt Infusion System, £138, Space NK
Why we love it: Promising clinical results from the comfort of your home, this derma rolling kit has everything you need for rejuvenated, younger-looking skin. Created for once a week use over 21 days, it comes with three ampules of hyaluronic acid and peptides and a dissolving needling tip. Simply roll the head across your face and neck for 10 minutes, in vertical, horizontal and diagonal directions, applying the same pressure throughout, apply the ampule, wait 10 seconds, then continue rolling until all the needles on the roller dissolve.
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Skin Gym Face and Body Micro-Needling Roller Set, £55, Selfridges
Why we love it: If your skin is lacking in plumpness, this face and body set could be a long term solution for your beauty routine. It’s a set of three rollers; one for your body which boasts 1200 needles and a 0.25mm length, one for your face with 600 needles and a 0.2mm needle length and one or you eyes and lips which has 240 needles and a 0.2mm length also. You can use it up to twice a week and it will help your serums absorb and perform better. Skin Gym recommends sterilising it in between uses by submerging the head in boiled water of a 91% alcohol solution for five minutes and leaving to dry completely.
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Beautybio Rejuvenating Scalp + Fuller Hair Therapy, £249, Cult Beauty
Why we love it: Beautybio’s GloPRO high quality at-home microneedling tool promises a plump, luminous complexion - everything we’re looking for from our skincare routine. Specifically designed to hug the contours of your scalp, it’s made with two prongs that can be rolled across damp or dry hair to combat thinning and hair loss . Also in your kit you’ll find a Healthy Scalp Serum which is a cocktail rich in rosebay extract, larch tree, camellia leaf extract and zinc to help regulate oil production and improve hair density.
Save when you shop for the best derma rollers with these Cult Beauty discount codes.
Spotlight Oral Care Smile Rejuvenation System, £97.50, LookFantastic
Why we love it: If smile lines are getting you down, take a look at Spotlight Oral Care Smile Rejuvenation System. This female founded and owned brand has created a three-step system to plump skin, promote collagen and elastin production and leave you with a firmer, tighter skin around the mouth. It’s a month-long treatment designed to be used once a week, and comes with a derma roller, dissolving micro-needling tips, a peptide-rich serum and four lip sheet masks for extra hydration.
Save when you shop for the best derma rollers with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Kitsch Micro Derma Roller, £14.50, Boots
Why we love it: If you’re keen to enjoy the benefits of dermarolling but don’t have the budget to splurge on a full kit, this Kitsch Micro Derma Roller is a great starting point. Made for aging and texture concerns, it promises to be safe enough to use daily and has 0.25mm stainless steel needles. There’s rave reviews from shoppers at Boots too who have sung its praises for leaving their skin smoother after just a week.
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brushworks HD Micro Needle Derma Roller, £9.59, LookFantastic
Why we love it: This affordable derma roller from Brushworks has a 0.5mm needle length and caters for improving the appearance of fine lines and texture. The brand recommends keeping application to a maximum of two minutes of rolling, starting with the forehead, cheeks then chin, and appling your favourite serum first for maximum absorption. Keep its use to once a week and it won’t take long to enjoy a more radiant, youthful complexion. And it’s less than a tenner - what’s not to love?
Save when you shop for the best derma rollers with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Olivierewilson Microneedling Face Tool 0.3mm, £44, Current Body
Why we love it: This dermarolling tool is equipped with 540 ultrafine titanium needles which will leave your complexion luminous, smooth and plump. It can also help to improve acne scarring, enlarged pores, enhance the absorption of your favourite skincare products and stimulate the production of elastin. It has a 0.3mm needle length and can be used up to twice a week for best results. Don’t mind if we do.
Hairburst Hair Derma Roller, £17, Sephora
Why we love it: Another budget-friendly find is this scalp derma roller from Hairburst. Recommended for thinning hair, its ultrafine needles stimulate blood circulation to targeted areas which can help you hair grow longer and thicker. Simply roll it over your scalp and hairline in the direction that it grows with a light pressure, across a 15 minute treatment time three times a week.
Save when you shop for the best derma rollers with these Sephora discount codes.
Ecooking Derma Roller, £36, LookFantastic
Why we love it: Transform your evening skincare routine with the introductions of this derma roller that promises a smoother, brighter and rejuvenated complexion - yes, please and thank you. Its list of benefits go on and on, ranging from smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, tightened sagging skin to reducing the appearance of pores, scars and pigmentation. On cleansed skin, roll across horizontally, diagonally and vertically with an even, gentle pressure once a week.
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Beautybio GloPRO Microneedling Regeneration Tool, £199, Cult Beauty
Why we love it: If your skin feels like it needs an overhaul, the 0.3mm microneedles in this Beautybio set ticks every box. Not only will you find a derma roller within this set, but a complete skincare routine, including a cleanser, microneedling skin prep pads, a retinol and peptide serum and even a face cream. Promising to “fast-track your skin rejuvenation journey”, it’s a painless and non-invasive treatment that can be used by all skin types to improve firmness, texture and smoothness.
Save when you shop for the best derma rollers with these Cult Beauty discount codes.
Zoe Ayla Rose Quartz Derma Roller, £18, ASOS
Why we love it: We love a budget beauty find and next time you’re scrolling through ASOS, don’t forget to check out its Face + Body section. This double ended roller is as multi-purpose as it gets - one end has 0.5mm stainless steel needles to deliver smoother, firmer skin with weekly use, while the rose-quartz acupuncture tip can soothe tension and help with reducing inflammation.
Nurse Jamie Beauty Stamp, £39, Cult Beauty
Why we love it: This unique looking tool requires a stamping, rather than a rolling motion, to prick your skin with its tiny needles. Not only will it stimulate collagen production for plumper, juicier skin but it can also enhance the absorption of the rest of your skincare routine. Simply gently press and lift all over your face, being careful to avoid the eye area and any open wounds.
Save when you shop for the best derma rollers with these Cult Beauty discount codes.
Beard Growth Derma Roller, £8.99, Amazon
Why we love it: If you’re looking to stimulate beard hair growth, this is a great budget-friendly option that comes with thousands of rave reviews. It’s made with 540 titanium microneedles that are 0.25mm in size, which when rolled over the scalp provoke new cell production which stimulates hair follicles and encourages new hair to grow. You can also use it on your face too, making it a great versatile and affordable option. Beard Growth’ top tip is to roll across the scalp for five to ten minutes, then massage in a soothing hair oil or serum.
Save when you shop for the best derma rollers with these Amazon discount codes.
Teresa Tarmey Microneedling Kit, £220, Space NK
Why we love it: This luxury kit comes complete with a state-of-the-art 12 week treatment plan that promises clinic-level results. Not for the faint-hearted or budget conscious, it contains 12 peptide ampules and a sleek facial roller designed for once-a-week use in your evening skincare routine. To get the best results, apply half of an ampoule to clean and dry skin, roll the dermaroller over skin horizontally, vertically and diagonally two to three times, while applying a firm pressure, then gently massage in the remaining peptide serum with your hands.
Save when you shop for the best derma rollers with these Space NK discount codes.
