Dermarollers have varying lengths of stainless steel spikes to penetrate your skin. Dr. Jeff Popp uses the dermaroller to repair acne scarring and other scars.
“The ones people use at home would have short and shallow spikes,” he said. “The ones we use are long and penetrate deeply into the skin.”
So his dermaroller patients are either numbed up, knocked out or both. Because what he does with the dermaroller is wound the skin. And when that happens, the skin creates more collagen.
“And collagen is what makes your skin tighter, less wrinkled and healthier,” Dr. Popp said.
Laser Not Always Best
The dermaroller procedure is usually reserved for those who, for one reason or another, aren’t good candidates for laser treatments.
“Let’s say you have an individual who is Asian or Hispanic, meaning their skin is more darkly pigmented,” he said. “If they have acne scars from their teen years, we might first consider laser resurfacing.”
But sometimes the laser can hurt more than it helps.
“Lasers will destroy pigment cells and can potentially cause really light or dark blotches.”
So Dr. Popp uses the dermaroller to pierce scar tissue and make the scar soften and flatten.
Speedy Recovery
Even though he numbs and sedates dermaroller patients heavily so they’re more comfortable, recovery is quick.
“We put them on antibiotics and maybe a topical until they heal,” he said. “But they do heal within a couple days after the procedure.”
Overall, Dr. Popp said he treats about half a dozen patients with the dermaroller each year. He uses laser treatment more often because it works better for most people.
Considering getting your scars treated? Set up your consultation with Dr. Popp at (402) 391-4558.
