In the last couple of years, the cosmetics industry has introduced a plethora of revolutionizing ingredients and new products that we didn’t even know we needed. From retinols to baking soda cleansers, it can be confusing to stay on top of all the innovations. At the same time, there’s also been a simultaneous return to more old-school beauty treatments, such as the jade roller and gua sha facial tools, which have been around for ages before they took over every beauty addict’s Instagram feed. In this post, I will explain what these tools are meant for and how to use them. Enjoy!

What is a jade roller and a gua sha facial tool

These tools date back to ancient China and have been used to increase blood flow and stimulate the lymphatic system. In fact, gua sha translates to “scraping”, and the practice consists of using a flat handheld tool to relieve muscle pain and help lymph circulate. When used in the face, it is a deeply relaxing ritual that slightly pulls on the face. Gua sha facial tools are also known as “natural facelifts” because of their anti-aging properties. This practice also promotes blood circulation and natural drainage of the lymph nodes, contributing to releasing muscular tension and lifting the skin.

Jade rollers are used to depuff the face, especially the eye area, while also promoting skin elasticity. I personally love using this in the morning to depuff my eyes, and in the evening to release any accumulated tension.

The main difference between a jade roller and a gua sha tool is the action: the former includes rolling gently on the surface of the skin, while the latter pulls and scrapes the skin into the deeper layers. When used regularly, you will notice a difference.

Some users like to keep their jade tools in the fridge for a heightened experience, but there is no need to do so. In fact, the cold tends to constrict blood vessels, which goes against the purpose of these tools.

How to use a gua sha and face roller

The secret is to go gently, and always work upwards and outwards. Start in the middle of the face, then move outwards across the cheeks. Move to the eyes and eyebrows, roll upwards across the forehead, and then work on the chin area. You can also roll up from the shoulders or neck towards the ear and chin. Use the smaller ends of the tool for more delicate and hard to reach areas, like the eyes.

These tools work better on clean skin that’s been moisturized, to avoid excess friction. Use the gua sha tool with an angle that’s nearly parallel to your skin. You can use your free hand to apply a gentle pressure close to the tool’s edge to provide some resistance. Repeat the strokes about three times and focus on puff-prone areas, likes the undereyes and cheeks. Most importantly, listen to your skin!

The benefits of using such tools

The jade roller works as a lymphatic massage and is a simple way of depuffing the skin. In fact, an accumulation of excess fluids, such as lymph causes puffiness, which is why massaging the skin will also depuff it. Jade rollers also work to improve blood circulation and relieve facial and jaw tension. Some say it even helps in relieving headaches and brightens skin over time.

When used correctly, a facial gua sha tool is more powerful than a roller because it works on deeper layers of the skin. Depending on the pressure, and the speed and direction, a gua sha can either lift or de-puff, work on surface lines or deep muscular tension. It really is a magical tool!

Both tools can help in temporarily improving blood circulation, brightening skin tone, and promoting skin elasticity. What’s not to like about this practice?

We live very stressful lives, so using a gua sha tool or a jade roller can help with uncoiling the daily buildup of stress for a healthier life and a more glowy skin. Remember, the jade roller is a big trend at the moment, and just like any other trends, there are some good and some bad aspects to it. No, a jade roller will not transform your skin overnight, but it is fun to use and does work on depuffing eyes. If used once or twice a week as part of your skincare ritual, you will see a difference and your skin will thank you.

If you want to know more, I highly recommend this video by the lovely Aja Dang. She gives SO much information, it’s a must-watch!

Have you tried this technique?

 

-xox- Marika