Derma Roller for Hair Growth: How Microneedling Helps With Thinning Hair
At National Hair Loss Med Aesthetics, we're committed to providing the latest and most effective treatments for hair health.
One tool that's gained real traction is the derma roller — and unlike a lot of at-home hair loss trends, this one has clinical research behind it. In this post, we'll cover what derma rolling actually does, who it's for, how to use one safely, and what the research says about results.
What Is Derma Rolling?
Derma rollers are handheld devices covered in tiny, fine needles that create controlled micro-punctures in the scalp's skin; a process called microneedling. This stimulates the skin's natural healing response, increasing blood circulation and boosting production of collagen and other growth factors.
The Benefits
Enhanced Hair Growth — microneedling stimulates the release of growth factors that support hair follicle health, and it significantly increases how well topical hair treatments absorb into the scalp
Improved Scalp Health — better blood circulation nourishes hair follicles with more nutrients and oxygen
Increased Collagen Production — strengthens the scalp and hair follicles, reducing breakage and thinning
Reduction of Scalp Issues — regular use can help with dandruff and dryness by improving overall scalp health
What the Research Shows
In a 2013 randomized, evaluator-blinded pilot study published in the International Journal of Trichology (Dhurat et al.), 100 men with androgenetic alopecia were split into two groups over 12 weeks: one used weekly microneedling (1.5mm depth) plus twice-daily 5% minoxidil, the other used 5% minoxidil alone.
The microneedling + minoxidil group saw an average increase of 91.4 hairs/cm², compared to 22.2 hairs/cm² for minoxidil alone, roughly 4x greater improvement in hair count
82% of the microneedling group reported more than 50% improvement in their hair loss, compared to 4.5% of the minoxidil-only group
Visible results appeared as early as week 6 in the microneedling group, versus week 10 for minoxidil alone
This is independent, peer-reviewed evidence for the microneedling method itself. It's why we pair our derma-rollers with topical treatments rather than recommending them alone.
Not all rollers are created equal.
Our medical-grade scalp derma roller uses precision microneedling to stimulate collagen production, open temporary microchannels in the scalp, and boost absorption of the treatments you're already using.
Backed by clinical research showing significantly faster and greater results when microneedling is paired with a topical treatment like minoxidil.
WHO’S IT FOR:
Anyone experiencing androgenetic (pattern) hair loss or general thinning who wants to get more out of their current routine
People using topical treatments like minoxidil or NutraM Melatonin Serum who want to improve absorption and results
Anyone looking for a non-drug, non-invasive way to support scalp health alongside their treatment plan
Key Findings From Clinical Research:
In a 2013 randomized, evaluator-blinded pilot study published in the International Journal of Trichology (Dhurat et al.), 100 men with androgenetic alopecia were split into two groups over 12 weeks: one used weekly microneedling (1.5mm depth) plus twice-daily 5% minoxidil, the other used 5% minoxidil alone.
The microneedling + minoxidil group saw an average increase of 91.4 hairs/cm², compared to 22.2 hairs/cm² for minoxidil alone — roughly 4x greater improvement in hair count
82% of the microneedling group reported more than 50% improvement in their hair loss, compared to 4.5% of the minoxidil-only group
Visible results appeared as early as week 6 in the microneedling group, versus week 10 for minoxidil alone
End
Who Should Use a Derma Roller?
Men and women with hair thinning — those experiencing early signs of hair thinning can benefit from stimulated hair growth and improved follicle health
Individuals with certain types of alopecia — microneedling may help reactivate dormant hair follicles and promote regrowth
Anyone looking to improve scalp health — even without hair loss, derma rolling can make hair stronger and more resilient
How to Use a Derma Roller at Home
Choose the right derma roller — needle lengths between 0.5mm and 1.5mm for scalp use; shorter needles are a good starting point for beginners, while longer needles provide deeper stimulation for more experienced users. We recommend our NHLMA Scalp Derma Roller.
Sanitize before and after each use with rubbing alcohol to prevent infection
Prepare your scalp by cleansing thoroughly to remove dirt, oil, or product buildup
Roll with care — divide the scalp into sections and gently stamp or roll in different directions (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) for even coverage; avoid excess pressure
Apply your topical treatment immediately after — NHLMA Growth Factor Serum, Exosome Topical, or NutraM Melatonin Serum. This is when absorption is highest.
Stick to a routine — once a week, or as advised by your provider, is what the clinical research above is based on
FAQs About Derma Rolling for Hair Loss
Does derma rolling actually work for hair loss?
The evidence supports it as a booster to an existing treatment, not a standalone fix. In the clinical research above, microneedling combined with minoxidil produced roughly 4x greater hair count improvement than minoxidil alone.
How often should I use a derma roller?
Weekly is the protocol used in the published research and is generally recommended for at-home use. Using it more often can irritate the scalp rather than help.
What needle length should I use for hair growth?
Between 0.5mm and 1.5mm for scalp use — start shorter if you're new to microneedling.
Can I use it with minoxidil or a growth serum?
Yes — in fact, that pairing is exactly what's shown in the clinical research above. Apply your treatment right after rolling, when absorption is highest.
Does it hurt?
Most people describe mild tingling or pressure rather than pain, especially at the needle depths recommended for scalp use.
How long until I see results?
In the clinical research above, visible improvement began as early as 6 weeks, with continued improvement through 12+ weeks of consistent use.
Written by the Hair Loss Experts at NHLMA
Founded in 2007, National Hair Loss Medical Aesthetics is the leading Scottsdale-based practice specializing in the science of hair restoration and scalp health.
Our team of clinicians combines functional medicine, advanced diagnostics, and the latest regenerative treatments to address hair loss at its root cause. Through a clinical, evidence-based lens, not guesswork or one-size-fits-all solutions. We are not just writing about this. It is what we do every day.