Achieving New Quality of Life with Microneedling
Interview with Michael Tomerius, CEO of Dermaroller GmbH
Beauty care has long been more than a fleeting trend. More and more people are relying on effective yet gentle methods to improve skin texture and radiance. Among traditional cosmetic treatments, microneedling in particular has established itself – a treatment method that does without artificial fillers or nerve toxins and activates the natural regeneration of the skin. One of the pioneers in this field is Dermaroller GmbH from Wolfenbüttel.
For over two decades, Dermaroller GmbH has been developing high-quality microneedling products that are used worldwide in medical scar treatment as well as in the aesthetic field, helping people achieve greater quality of life and self-confidence. With a clear focus on scientific quality, innovation, and sustainable patient care, Michael Tomerius leads the family business today as an internationally successful manufacturer of medical devices.
Family Business with a Clear Vision
"If someone had told me 17 years ago that I would one day be self-employed in the cosmetics and medical technology industry, I probably wouldn't have believed it," laughs CEO Michael Tomerius. Today, he is not only the Managing Director but also the sole shareholder of Dermaroller GmbH. The company's history began in 1999 when his stepfather invented the microneedling instrument, patented it, and tested it in initial studies in 2000.
"Back then, the focus was primarily on the treatment of surgical scars. Today, the technique has also evolved into the aesthetic field." Along with his wife, who leads the finance department, and his sister, Dr. Alexandra Tomerius, who assists as the safety officer and in regulatory affairs, Michael Tomerius manages the company as a classic family business. "Of course, this poses high demands on collaboration. We work together 24/7 – you have to want that. But it has settled in well."
Since 2008, the company has been operating as Dermaroller GmbH and has strategically broadened its base over the past years. Under the roof of mi.to.pharm GmbH, the network now includes 13 companies. At the beginning of 2025, Dermaroller opened a branch in China, and the company is also represented in New York and Japan. "We have a strong export share, especially in the Asian region," explains Michael Tomerius.
Especially in China, we have been successfully engaged in cross-border business for nine years. "With our new branch in Shanghai and the ongoing market registration, we now also want to grow directly in the mainland market." But not only Asia is the focus. "Since we became FDA-certified at the beginning of 2025, we have also opened a branch in the USA. The market entry there is difficult, but the market has enormous potential and allows us to secure our investments in the long term."
Sustainability and Quality Over Cheap Production
Despite international expansion, Wolfenbüttel remains the set production location. "We are the only microneedling manufacturer in Germany and have no ambitions to outsource production abroad," emphasizes Michael Tomerius. Everything invasive - such as needle modules, electronic devices, and rollers - continues to be produced at the company's headquarters. "For other products, we cooperate with external partners, but patient safety comes first. That's why we produce critical components exclusively here."
Sustainability plays a central role. Although in medical technology it is difficult to use recycled materials due to regulations, Dermaroller primarily works with homogeneous materials and short supply chains. In addition, the company operates its own solar plants to generate electricity and uses combined heat and power plants for some properties. "This is not only sensible for cost reasons but also out of responsibility towards the environment," the managing director explains.
Microneedling as an Opportunity for Patients Worldwide
What distinguishes the products of Dermaroller GmbH is their scientific basis. Microneedling is considered a gentle and sustainable method, in which the skin is perforated with fine needles to stimulate the body's own collagen production. "No implants are inserted as with hyaluronic fillers or Botox; instead, the body does the work itself," explains Michael Tomerius. The method has proven particularly effective in the treatment of burn and surgical scars as well as acne scars. "We support, among others, organizations that treat children with burn injuries. It is a great motivation for me to restore joy and quality of life to these people."
In the aesthetic sector, the demand for microneedling continues to grow. Studies predict the market will grow annually by 10 to 13% until 2030. "The total volume is estimated to reach around 1 billion US dollars by then," says Tomerius. For Dermaroller, this means further internationalization, investments in approvals - and a continuous commitment to the highest quality.
Between Bureaucracy and Motivation
Despite all success, there are also challenges. "Bureaucracy increasingly slows us down," says Michael Tomerius. "Our quality management alone costs hundreds of thousands annually; here we employ doctorate-level professionals. Of course, patient safety is important, but many regulations serve only to control the system, not the product quality." What drives him despite all obstacles? "It's the people. When I see that we can really help with our products, it motivates me every day. We are also very active locally, supporting sports clubs and social projects. It is important to me to live values and take responsibility."