The 10 Best Serums to Use Before and After Derma-Rolling

Whether you call it derma-rolling or micro-needling, the practice is to skincare as coffee is to a weekday: It may not be necessary for survival, but it sure helps. (Just ask Review2Coupon’s news editor, Victoria Hoff, who swears by the power of this spiky skincare tool—it banished her dark circles and under-eye bags, two skincare woes that are pesky at best and daunting at worst). The practice involves gently rolling the head of the derma-roller, which is covered in tiny spikes, over the surface of the skin. Doing so causes tiny and painless micro-injuries, which your skin responds to by bumping up collagen production. The science is there, but I had to see it for myself, which is why I purchased a derma-roller.

Amazingly, a single use resulted in smoother and more even under-eyes. My dark circles weren’t nearly as distinct as the day before. But it didn’t stop there—it also targeted dark spots, acne scars, and tired skin. Needless to say, I’m now a loyal devotee. Here’s the thing, though. It’s recommended that you use a serum (or some similar “priming” product) with a derma-roller. It acts as a buffer between the needles and your skin, and even increases the absorption. But what serum should you choose? Whether your issue is general aging, hyperpigmentation, dryness, or dullness, there’s a serum out there to fix it.

Skin Concern #1: Dryness

Beauty Bioscience
GloPro Microneedling Regeneration Tool
$199.00

This micro-needling tool is expensive, but according to customer (and editor) reviews, it’s worth it. It offers all the same amazing skin benefits of a normal derma-roller, except it also includes LED light therapy and vibration stimulation meant to increase cell turnover and skin regeneration. Customer reviews go a little something like this: “This tool does not disappoint. The needles are painless, the tool is super easy to operate and the end result makes my skin feel healthy… even after just the first use. I was finished in about a minute and it was a nice, relaxing step in my beauty routine before winding down for bed. Can’t believe it took me this long to own a product like this!”

Derma-Rolling (aka Micro-Needling) for Acne Scars: How to Do It Right