Derma rolling, also known as microneedling, has become a skincare favorite for those looking to reduce fine lines, fade scars, stimulate collagen, and enhance overall skin texture. But one of the most common concerns, especially for beginners, is the pain: “Does derma rolling hurt?”
Let’s dive into why you might feel discomfort while using a derma roller on your skin, what affects the intensity, and how you can reduce pain — especially when using it at home.
What Is a Derma Roller?
A derma roller is a handheld tool with a roller covered in tiny, fine needles that create micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. These tiny punctures stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, boosting collagen production and increasing absorption of skincare products.
It’s often used on the face to reduce acne scars, fine lines, pigmentation, and dull skin, and on the scalp to encourage hair growth. But with needles involved, some level of discomfort is expected.
So, Why Does It Hurt?
1. Needle Length Matters
The length of the needles plays the biggest role in how much discomfort you’ll feel. Shorter needles (0.25 mm) typically cause little to no pain and are ideal for daily use or product absorption. Longer needles (0.5 mm to 1.5 mm) penetrate deeper, which can feel more intense, especially on sensitive areas.
2. Your Skin’s Sensitivity
Everyone’s pain threshold and skin sensitivity is different. Some may find microneedling to feel like a light tickle or mild irritation, while others describe it as a prickling or stinging sensation.
3. Area of Application
The face has varying levels of sensitivity. Rolling on thinner skin, like the forehead or around the eyes, may hurt more than on the cheeks or chin. The scalp is particularly sensitive, which is why using the right pressure and roller is important.
4. Pressure Applied
Using too much pressure can increase pain unnecessarily. A gentle roll is all that’s needed — pressing harder won’t yield faster or better results. In fact, it could damage your skin.
5. Skin Condition
Using a derma roller on active acne, inflammation, or broken skin can make the experience more painful and is not recommended. Always treat skin concerns first before microneedling.
Is the Pain Worth It?
Most users agree: the results are worth the temporary discomfort. Microneedling increases collagen, improves skin tone, reduces fine lines, and gives your skin a smoother, brighter look. The trick is using it correctly — and consistently.
To make your microneedling journey easier, it helps to start slow and pair the treatment with high-quality skincare products that enhance results and soothe your skin afterward.
Tips to Reduce Pain While Using a Derma Roller
Here are some helpful tips to minimize discomfort and protect your skin:
1. Start with a Lower Needle Size
Begin your journey with 0.25 mm or 0.5 mm needles. These are effective for improving product absorption and gentle enough for beginners.
Recommended: Mumkin Premium Derma Roller – 0.5mm
Ideal for beginners and regular users, this roller glides smoothly and is built for safe at-home use.
2. Clean Your Skin Thoroughly
Before microneedling, always cleanse your skin to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria. This helps prevent infections and reduces irritation post-treatment.
Try: Mumkin Gentle Foaming Cleanser
A soothing, sulfate-free cleanser that prepares your skin for derma rolling without stripping natural moisture.
3. Use a Numbing Cream (Optional)
If you’re sensitive or using a longer needle (0.75 mm or more), consider using a numbing cream 15–20 minutes before treatment. This will greatly reduce discomfort.
Pro Tip: Avoid numbing for smaller rollers as it’s usually unnecessary and may mask poor technique.
4. Apply Soothing Aftercare Products
Post-treatment, your skin needs hydration, barrier support, and calm. Use products rich in hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or peptides to speed up recovery and ease redness.
Soothe with: Mumkin Derma Recovery Serum
Formulated with hyaluronic acid and calming botanicals, this serum is made to cool, hydrate, and protect skin after microneedling.
5. Roll in the Right Direction
Roll gently in vertical, horizontal, and diagonal directions, no more than 2–3 times per area. Avoid going over the same spot repeatedly.
6. Don’t Use It Too Often
Overuse can increase discomfort and damage your skin. Stick to once every 7–10 days for beginners or once a month for deeper needle sizes.
What About Derma Rolling for Hair?
If you're using a derma roller on the scalp to boost hair growth, the skin is typically tougher, but also more sensitive due to the presence of hair follicles and nerve endings.
It can feel like a tingling or light sting. But again, needle size, pressure, and frequency are key.
Mumkin Hair Growth Derma Kit
Combines a safe 0.5 mm derma roller with our growth-stimulating scalp serum to help support thicker, healthier hair naturally.
What to Avoid After Using a Derma Roller
To avoid irritation, increased pain, or infections:
- Don’t apply makeup for at least 24 hours
- Avoid direct sun exposure
- Don’t touch your face with unclean hands
- Skip products with strong actives (like retinol or vitamin C) for a day or two
- Avoid sweating heavily (e.g., gym workouts or saunas)
Is Derma Rolling Safe?
Yes — when used properly, derma rolling is safe and effective. It’s a non-invasive way to improve your skin without expensive treatments. Just follow proper hygiene, technique, and don’t overdo it.
If you ever experience unusual pain, bleeding, or prolonged redness, it’s best to stop and consult a skincare professional.
Final Thoughts: Does Derma Rolling Hurt?
The short answer? It depends.
Derma rolling can cause discomfort, especially the first time, but most users describe it as manageable. The key to reducing pain lies in using the right tools, choosing the correct needle length, and applying the proper technique.
Whether you're using it for brighter skin or fuller hair, the temporary discomfort is often far outweighed by the glowing results that follow.
Recommended Starter Bundle
Includes:
- Mumkin Premium Derma Roller (0.5 mm)
- Mumkin Derma Recovery Serum
- Mumkin Gentle Foaming Cleanser
Everything you need to start your microneedling journey confidently and safely.
FAQs About Derma Roller Pain
Q: Does the pain go away with time?
Yes. Most users report the pain becoming less noticeable after a few sessions.
Q: Should I avoid derma rolling if I have sensitive skin?
Not necessarily. Just start with smaller needles and apply soothing products afterward.
Q: Can I use painkillers or numbing sprays?
Yes, but they’re usually unnecessary unless you’re using deeper needles (1 mm+). Stick to numbing creams made for skincare use.
Q: Is it supposed to bleed?
No. Light pinpoint bleeding may occur with longer needles, but it should not be profuse or painful. If it is, you’re applying too much pressure or using the wrong needle length.
Need help choosing the right roller or serum for your skin? Reach out to the Mumkin Care team we're here to support you every step of the way.
