Leading the Way with DermapenWorld EXO-GROW

Powered by bioscience. Driven by results.

By Louise May

Known globally for pioneering advancements in microneedling technology, DermapenWorld is now transforming the hair industry with the launch of its breakthrough EXO-GROW Collection. Bringing decades of expertise in skin rejuvenation into the realm of scalp health, the brand is introducing a revolutionary approach to hair restoration—powered by bioscience and driven by results.

Leading this exciting new division in the role of Brand General Manager for Global Haircare is Tracey Hughes, whose extensive experience in education, business leadership, and the professional hair industry makes her the perfect fit to guide DermapenWorld’s expansion into haircare. With a strong foundation in scientific innovation and a commitment to empowering professionals and consumers alike, DermapenWorld is set to redefine how we approach hair loss and scalp health on a global scale.

Editor of Mocha Hair, Louise May, caught up with Tracey to talk about her journey, what excites her about this new venture, and how education will play a pivotal role in transforming the way we approach hair loss and scalp health.

Congratulations on your new role. What excites you the most about leading the Global Haircare Division at DermapenWorld?

Thank you so much! I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity to lead DermapenWorld’s new haircare division. As pioneers in microneedling, our expertise in science-backed skincare, medical devices, and now haircare is truly extraordinary. What excites me most is the challenge of launching this division on a global scale. With our existing footprint in 80 countries, we have an expansive community to support this endeavour, and we have ambitious plans for growth.

Beyond business, the hair loss category is about more than just providing hair growth solutions—it’s about helping individuals regain their confidence. That mission aligns deeply with my personal philosophy of giving back with purpose. To me, this isn’t just a role or a title— it’s about empowerment, both for consumers and salon professionals worldwide.

Can you tell us about your journey in the hair industry and how it has prepared you for this position?

My journey has been incredibly rewarding, filled with challenges and triumphs that have shaped me both professionally and personally. Arriving in Australia as a young backpacker, I quickly learned independence and resilience. I built Mieka Hairdressing from the ground up, transforming it into a prestigious, multi-award-winning salon, earning Salon of the Year 10 times.

Launching Tracey Hughes Education allowed me to pioneer innovative education resources while also serving as Artistic Director for a major manufacturer. My career evolved from hairdresser to salon owner, educator, keynote speaker, and ultimately a business leader. A significant turning point came when I lost my salons due to an unethical business partnership. While devastating at the time, it opened doors for growth, leading me to the USA, where I served as Global Education Director and later Vice President of Global Education.

During that period, I also founded Leading Ladies, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals and giving back to the community. Working with renowned global brands broadened my perspective, and upon returning to Australia, I took on leadership roles in corporate settings. However, I realized that corporate life didn’t align with my entrepreneurial spirit. Now, at DermapenWorld, an Australian company with global influence, I have the perfect platform to leverage my skills, experience, and passion in a truly impactful leadership role.

DermapenWorld is well-known in the beauty and aesthetics industry but new to the hair industry. Can you give our readers insight into the company?

DermapenWorld has built a global reputation for pioneering advanced skincare solutions, and now, with the EXO-GROW Collection, we are applying the same innovation and dedication to haircare. Our core values—confidence, clarity, and compassion—are embedded in everything we do, empowering men and women with thinning hair to take control of their hair health and self-image.

As the inventors of the first-ever automated microneedling device, we set the gold standard for skin rejuvenation. Now, we are bringing that same level of scientific excellence to scalp health with our revolutionary bioscience-driven EXO-GROW Collection, an advanced anti-aging haircare solution designed to regenerate follicles and promote long-term scalp health.

Why EXO-GROW? What inspired DermapenWorld to create this range, and what makes it stand out in today’s haircare market?

EXO-GROW is the result of cutting-edge research in exosome technology.

Our patented EXOSOME core technology harnesses stem cell-derived exosomes to promote follicle regeneration and reduce inflammation. This clinical-grade, clean haircare range is free from harsh chemicals, parabens, and sulfates, and is both vegan and cruelty-free. Many haircare brands compare their formulas to skincare, but we are already world leaders in cosmeceutical skincare. EXO-GROW’s unique K-Beauty bioscience ComplexA technology directly targets follicle regeneration, offering a deeper, more effective solution than any competitors. Consumers today are highly ingredient-conscious, and demand scientifically backed, results-driven solutions—EXO-GROW delivers exactly that.

DermapenWorld is renowned for its microneedling innovations. How does this technology integrate with EXOGROW’s haircare approach?

Thinning hair has significant psychological effects, yet many traditional treatments, such as drug therapies, have limitations. The combination of Dermapen microneedling and EXO-GROW offers a holistic, results-driven approach with superior clinical outcomes. Microneedling triggers the body’s woundhealing response, amplifying the effectiveness of exosome technology by increasing blood flow and accelerating follicle rejuvenation.

Consumers can use the Dermapen Home device with the EXO-GROW Collection for at-home maintenance, while more advanced treatments are available in clinics through our network of doctors, trichologists, and aesthetic professionals. From individuals seeking thicker hair to those with alopecia or genetic hair loss, this synergy of science and technology empowers people to restore their hair with confidence.

Hair loss and scalp health are growing concerns. How do you see EXO-GROW making an impact worldwide?

I deeply understand the emotional toll of hair loss. EXO-GROW is more than just a product— it’s a message of compassion, offering individuals a genuine solution for hair restoration and renewed self-confidence.

For salon professionals, EXO-GROW represents the future of haircare, combining the latest in anti-aging technology with targeted, resultsdriven formulations. This isn’t just about hair growth—it’s about vitality, empowerment, and helping people feel their absolute best. That is the driving force behind our mission.

As a leader in education and mentorship, how will you integrate education into the EXO-GROW launch?

Education has always been at the heart of my career, and at DermapenWorld, it remains a top priority. We are establishing multiple educational touchpoints for our global network, collaborating with leading experts—including doctors, trichologists, and microneedling specialists—to provide in-depth training.

We’re also building a strong ambassador network of hair professionals who believe in education and innovation. In August, we’ll be launching a national roadshow across Australia, featuring our global team from the UK and Europe. Additionally, our new digital learning platform, DermapenWorld University, is designed to be highly interactive, ensuring deeper engagement and knowledge retention. This is just the beginning—we have many more exciting educational initiatives in the pipeline, including specialized training in fine hair techniques and hair restoration solutions.

You’ve worked with major global brands. What drew you to DermapenWorld, and what do you love most about the company?

It’s simple—the culture, the people, the innovation, and the challenge. The founders, Stene and Corri Marshall, are true entrepreneurs with immense integrity, and their vision resonates deeply with me. The entire global team operates with passion, respect, and collaboration, which makes this an inspiring environment to be a part of.

I also love the challenge of launching and scaling a new brand within an established organisation. Unlike rigid corporate structures, DermapenWorld fosters creativity, agility, and a start-up mentality—qualities that align perfectly with my leadership style. After experiencing toxic work environments in the past, I am incredibly grateful to now be surrounded by a supportive, empowering culture that values innovation and teamwork.

With EXO-GROW launching globally, how can professionals and consumers access the range?

Salon owners, hairstylists, and barbers can connect with us to sample the EXO-GROW Collection and explore real case studies demonstrating its effectiveness. As a niche, science-driven brand, we complement existing salon retail lines rather than competing with them.

Our go-to-market strategy is centred on building brand awareness and creating demand within professional salons. We are expanding our global team to share our message and ensure every stylist and barber has access to this revolutionary range.

You’ve made a profound impact on the industry, from education to leadership. What message would you like to share with salon professionals to keep them inspired?

Our industry is uniquely collaborative and creative. I encourage salon professionals to embrace lifelong learning, support one another, and celebrate our craft. Confidence stems from knowledge, and with the right education and solutions, we have the power to transform lives. Through resilience, self-belief, and a commitment to excellence, every professional can reach their full potential—and that’s a journey worth taking together.

www.dermapenworld.com @dermapenworld @exogrow_hair