Best derma rollers and how to use them at home

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Here's how to roll your way to better skin...

If you’d have told us a few years ago that a miniature roller with tiny needles attached to it would be good for our skin, we probably wouldn't have believed you. However, derma rolling has become the latest DIY beauty trend for tackling a whole bunch of skin woes.

While microneedling is the term used for in-clinic treatments (more on that later), derma rolling is the DIY equivalent, so you can replicate some of the benefits of the treatment from your very own bathroom.

Interested? We've asked the experts all the questions so you’re fully clued up before picking up a derma roller.

The two terms are usually used interchangeably, and while the benefits are the same, there is a key difference. Aesthetic Doctor, Dr Parisha Acharya, explains:

"Microneedling is a treatment that is performed in clinic using small needles to create micro-trauma that helps induce a reparative collagen response. There are many benefits, including an improvement in skin quality, reduction in scarring and overall anti-ageing.

"Derma-rolling is usually performed at home and generally uses tiny pins to help penetrate serums into the surface layer of the skin, helping to enhance their performance somewhat.

"The biggest difference between the two is the depth of needle and antiseptic technique used in clinic. Derma rollers tend to be around 0.2-0.3mm, whereas microneedling devices can be anything from 2.5mm."

As derma rollers have smaller needles, you won't see as much of a difference to your skin as you would from an in-clinic microneedling treatment, but the DIY option is a more accessible (and less spenny!) way of improving skin - it just might take a bit longer to see results.

GP and Clinical Dermatology Expert, Dr Sonia Khrana, explains:

"Microneedling is used to improve the tone and texture of the skin and improve scars and stretch marks by creating a response with mechanical trauma (the pinpricks). Fibroblast (the cells in your skin that facilitate the healing process) activity is increased, thus improving collagen production [which] helps with scarring and improves the overall texture of your skin. It also results in a plumped and more youthful appearance."

Khrana adds that while "at-home devices won't give you as dramatic results as clinic treatments, they still do work. They have much shorter needles so they don't penetrate as deep, and can be a lot gentler, to reduce the risk of an injury."

The good news is that, unlike some treatments, derma rollers can be used on all skin types and tones, but Khrana notes when to avoid them:

"Those with chronic inflammatory skin conditions (such as acne, eczema and psoriasis) should avoid the procedure whilst their condition is active, as the treatment may exacerbate them."

There should be no side effects to derma rolling at home either, apart from a little post-treatment redness initially. This should go down quickly, though.

Skin will likely be sensitive (especially after the first couple of sessions), so it will need a little TLC.

Avoid actives such as retinol and AHAs immediately after derma rolling, and don't forget to apply your SPF. If you can, also avoid applying heavy make-up for the following few days.

"Using skincare that isn't formulated to be used on wounded skin/compromised skin can cause skin reactions and sometimes even an immune reaction, which forms granulomas (lumps under the skin)," warns Dr Khrana.

Stick to nourishing and hydrating ingredients, such as your trusted hyaluronic acid.

If you're not sure where to start with derma rolling, this kit has got you covered. It comes with all the skincare you'd need for the days that follow, while the device itself also comes with an LED red light therapy option (to help reduce inflammation and improve circulation).

Basically, if you're after subtler pores, softer skin and a pain-free experience, look no further.

If you've become slightly obsessed with watching before and after facial massage videos on Insta, you'll have come across FACE GYM. Several celebs – Daisy Edgar Jones and Jessica Biel to name just two – swear by their "facial workouts" before red carpets, and our testers can see why.

Their at-home microneedling tool aims to leave skin looking bouncier and juicier from the get-go. Just use once a week for five to ten minutes and then voila!

*Adds to basket immediately*

Dealing with needles is a task in itself and should always be done with a cautious hand. This sleek roller aims to encourage collagen production and deliver a more youthful complexion without any fuss.

Simply cleanse your skin, wait for it to dry and start rolling for 2-4 mins. It's really that simple.

This derma roller features some of the teeniest needles on our list (0.25mm to be exact), making it a great place to start if you’re new to derma rolling. Expect to see fewer breakouts and more even-looking skin as a result.

The head is small, which makes it a great option for those looking for a more targeted treatment, but not for those who are always in a rush.

If you've conquered acne (go you!) but are left with the aftermath of uneven skin texture, give this one a go. It's a pro at smoothing out any texture irregularities, to leave skin looking softer and smoother. Use this guy twice a week to get the best results.

Did we mention it also comes with a handy case? Which not only makes it easier to travel with, but also keeps any germs at bay.

This tool features some of the biggest needles in our test (0.5mm), so look here if you’re more experienced with this type of treatment. It is, however, a great bargain option if you're interested in joining the derma roller hype, without you having to spend a fortune.

Be prepared to say goodbye to breakout and blackheads (we can't say we'll miss them).

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