If you’re struggling with thinning hair or a receding hairline, you’ve probably seen derma rollers popping up across social media as a low-cost, at-home fix. But does microneedling — using a derma roller on your scalp — actually grow hair? Short answer: it can help, especially when combined with proven topical treatments. Below we break down how it works, what the evidence says, how to use a derma roller safely, and realistic expectations so you can decide whether The Glow Roller is right for you.

1. How derma rolling is supposed to help hair?

Derma rollers create controlled micro-injuries in the scalp. Those tiny punctures trick the body into healing the area: growth factors are released, circulation increases, and pathways that support hair follicle activity (like Wnt/β-catenin and VEGF signaling) are stimulated. This biological response can reactivate dormant follicles and improve the effectiveness of topicals by helping them penetrate the scalp more deeply. Laboratory and animal studies point to these molecular mechanisms as plausible drivers of regrowth. 

2. What the clinical studies say?

A handful of clinical trials show promising results — most importantly when microneedling is combined with standard treatments like topical minoxidil. Randomized and controlled studies reported greater hair counts and better patient satisfaction when microneedling plus minoxidil was used versus minoxidil alone. That pattern repeats in several trials and reviews: microneedling appears to boost outcomes over monotherapy. Still, results vary by needle depth, treatment frequency, and underlying cause of hair loss (e.g., androgenetic alopecia responds differently than scarring alopecia). 

3. Who’s most likely to benefit?!

Microneedling tends to help people with thinning hair and early-to-moderate androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) more than it helps people with long-standing, complete baldness. Combining microneedling with topical or clinical therapies (minoxidil, PRP, or growth factor treatments) consistently shows better results than microneedling alone. If you have active scalp inflammation, infection, or certain skin conditions, talk to a dermatologist before starting. 

4. Best needle sizes & frequency (practical guide)!

• 0.25–0.5 mm — best for increasing topical absorption and mild stimulation; commonly used for weekly to twice-weekly home sessions.

• 0.75–1.0 mm — deeper stimulation for follicle activation; many protocols for hair use 1.0 mm in clinic or carefully at home every 2–4 weeks.

• >1.0 mm — usually reserved for in-office microneedling by professionals (higher infection risk and more downtime).

*Find Best Derma Rollers/Glow Rollers >>> [Click Here]

When in doubt, start conservative (0.25–0.5 mm) and increase only with professional advice. Sterility is non-negotiable: sanitize the device before and after use, avoid rolling over infected or broken skin, and don’t share rollers. 

5. Step-by-step — safe home routine:

1. Clean scalp and hands.

2. Disinfect your derma roller per manufacturer instructions.

3. Gently roll in vertical, horizontal, and diagonal directions — do not press hard; you’re creating microchannels, not wounds.

4. Apply a simple, non-irritating serum (if using topical minoxidil, follow product guidance; some prefer to wait 24 hours to reduce irritation).

5. Clean the roller again and store it dry.

6. Repeat according to your needle size and dermatology guidance (e.g., weekly for 0.5 mm or every 2–4 weeks for 1.0 mm).

Avoid strong actives (high-strength retinoids, acids) immediately after microneedling and protect your scalp from sun exposure for a few days.

6. Realistic timeline and expectations:

Microneedling is not an instant fix. Noticeable changes usually take 3–6 months of consistent treatment combined with other therapies. Some studies reported patient satisfaction as early as 10 weeks, but full effects are typically slower. Be prepared for incremental thickening rather than overnight miracles. 

7. Risks and side effects:

Common side effects are temporary: redness, mild swelling, and tenderness. More serious complications (infection, scarring, pigment changes) are rare but possible — especially with unsanitary rollers or overly aggressive home treatments. Professional microneedling sessions tend to have stricter sterility controls and may be safer for deeper needle use. 

8. Bottom line: should you try The Glow Roller?

If you have early thinning and want an affordable, low-risk adjunct to proven treatments, derma rolling with The Glow Roller can be a helpful tool — particularly when paired with topical therapies like minoxidil or used as part of a clinic plan (PRP + microneedling). Start slow, stay consistent, maintain hygiene, and consult a dermatologist if you’re unsure. With realistic expectations and proper technique, many users see meaningful improvements over months.