Dangers of Using a Dermaroller: What You Need to Know Before Applying It, Especially on the Scalp

Facial skin care and scalp hair growth stimulation are widely done with Dermarollers (microneedling rollers). The micro-punctures are believed to increase blood circulation and help active ingredients absorb even better. But using a dermaroller incorrectly, especially on the scalp, can be dangerous.

1. Skin Damage and the Risk of Wound Expansion

By creating micro punctures, a dermaroller is supposed to trigger tissue regeneration. However:

• The risk is higher on the scalp. The wound can extend even into already damaged areas of the scalp, and the punctures can overlap with each other causing them to be bigger. If you use the dermaroller repeatedly on the same area, this is particularly dangerous.
• Deep injuries. The scalp is much thinner and sensitive than it seems, and pushing too hard with these needles can injure not only the epidermis, but also the hair follicles.

2. Risk of Infection on the Scalp

The scalp, with hair covering it, is a good place for bacteria, sweat and sebum to accumulate. This makes the use of a dermaroller especially dangerous:

• Infections. Dermeroller can cause inflammation & pus formation if not being sterilized properly, and if bacteria penetrates into the micro-punctures.
• Spreading inflammation. The dermaroller can pass infection from pimples, wounds or irritation on the scalp to healthy areas.

3. Hygiene: A Key Factor for Safety

If such a dermaroller is used on the scalp the strict hygiene rules have to be followed in order to avoid negative consequences.

• Sterilizing the dermaroller. It gets rinsed with alcohol after every use, it must be completely disinfected after each use by soaking the dermaroller in an alcohol solution.
• Washing the scalp. Before the procedure, you always need to wash yourself with a mild shampoo in order to get rid of dirt, sebum and residues from hairstyling products.
• Storing the tool. So to prevent contamination, dermaroller should be stored in airtight container.

4. Possible Side Effects on the Scalp

Even when all precautions are taken, using a dermaroller can cause:

• Irritation and inflammation. The punctures let in the external factors to the scalp, exposing it more.
• Scarring. If the punctures are seriously deep, or too frequent, then the skin will try to repair itself by forming scar tissue instead of regenerating.
• Hair loss. Worsening hair loss can result from damaging hair follicles through the improper use of the dermaroller.

5. Why Dermarollers Can Be Harmful to the Scalp

While dermarollers promise to stimulate hair growth, the risks sometimes outweigh the benefits:

• Infections as a result of insufficient sterilization.
• Discomfort from improper use.
• If used without professional supervision, there is lack of scientifically proven effect.

Conclusion

When used on the scalp, Dermarollers can be dangerous and if hygiene rules are not followed. Not only can they do harm but they can worsen existing problems like hair loss or inflammation. But, if you choose to use a dermaroller in your routine, be sure to consult with a trichologist or dermatologist, so that it doesn’t worsen the issue and gets the best results