According to certain studies, using a derma roller on the scalp regularly can support hair growth and boost scalp health. And in addition to thoroughly cleansing, some experts say exfoliating your scalp can help create a healthier environment that encourages hair growth. While Vegamour doesn’t claim its scalp derma roller will bring you a boost of hair growth, its handheld tool is meant to provide gentle exfoliation, therefore prepping the scalp for better absorption of product (specifically the brand’s GRO+ Advanced Hair Serum).
The chic gold tool features 0.25mm medical-grade stainless steel needles and twist-off heads for easy assembly. Each tool comes with a protective carrying case to help keep the tool safe and sanitized between uses, though the brand recommends cleaning the heads before and after each use. You’ll also want to replace each head every days.
Best for Anti-Aging: ORA Facial Microneedle Roller System
- What we love: Can be used on both face and body; longer needles for amplified results; great overall value
- What could improve: May feel uncomfortable for beginners; doesn’t come with a case
If you consider yourself a derma-rolling pro, check out this top-rated tool with 0.5mm-length needles. While it’s a tad more intense than the typical microneedling device (which usually touts 0.25mm needle length), dermatologists tell us it gets you a little closer to the needle lengths used in-office without putting you into dangerous territory. And while it’s suitable for the face, it’s also a good needle length for areas with thicker skin, like the scalp and body. Despite its prowess, it’s under $50, which makes it a great overall value. We do wish it came with a case of some sort—most of the best derma rollers do, regardless of price point.
Best for Improving Texture: FaceGym Youthful Active Roller With Niacinamide
- What we love: Infused with nourishing and hydrating ingredients; delivers a cooling sensation
- What could improve: Have to regularly buy replacements, which can feel both expensive and wasteful
Similar to Skin Gym Hyaluronic Roller, this derma roller doesn’t have the same stainless steel needles many of its competitors do. Instead, what punctures the skin to create those tiny tears that trigger the repair and regeneration process are crystalized microneedles that are infused with phyto-retinol, niacinamide, and green tea to help address concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.
“I found this tool very similar to the one by Skin Gym—right down to the packaging. It too was easy to assemble and use, but I appreciated that this one has a silicone-like handle that lends a little more grip and, therefore, control while rolling. It was gentle on my skin and had the same soft feel along with a slight cooling sensation—almost the way your skin feels when you put on aloe,” says Moorehouse.
Best Value: Kitsch Micro Derma Roller
- What we love: Ergonomic handle; glides smoothly across skin; comes with a case
- What could improve: Feels flimsier than other options
It may come at just a fraction of the price of other derma rollers, but this one still has 0.25mm stainless steel needles you can feel penetrating your skin.