Jade rollers are small beauty tools that look like mini paint rollers for your face, except they are made of stone and have a cooling effect on the skin. They have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to balance the energy or “chi” of the body and to promote blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. But do jade rollers really work for your skin? And how do you use them correctly? In this article, we will explore the benefits of jade rollers and how to incorporate them into your skincare routine.

What are jade rollers and how do they work?

Jade rollers are handheld massaging tools that have a smooth jade stone attached to one or both ends. The jade stone is usually oval-shaped and can vary in size depending on the area of the face you want to target. Jade is a natural gemstone that has the ability to stay cool even when it comes in contact with the skin, which makes it ideal for soothing inflammation and redness.

The idea behind jade rolling is to gently glide the tool over your face in upward and outward motions, applying medium pressure. This helps to stimulate blood flow, oxygenate the skin cells, and drain excess fluid and toxins from the tissues³. By doing so, jade rolling can improve your complexion, reduce puffiness, smooth fine lines, and enhance product absorption.

What are the benefits of jade rolling for your skin?

Jade rolling can benefit your skin in several ways, depending on how often and how correctly you use it. Here are some of the benefits you can expect from jade rolling:

• Reducing facial puffiness: One of the main reasons why people use jade rollers is to reduce swelling and puffiness on their face, especially around the eyes. This is because jade rolling helps to move lymphatic fluid, which can accumulate under the skin due to stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, or hormonal changes. By massaging the fluid away from the face, jade rolling can make your face look more sculpted and contoured.
• Soothing redness or inflammation: Another benefit of jade rolling is that it can calm down irritated or inflamed skin, thanks to the cooling effect of the jade stone. Jade rolling can help with conditions such as rosacea, acne, eczema, or sunburn by reducing heat and inflammation on the skin surface. Jade rolling can also soothe tension headaches or sinus pressure by relaxing the facial muscles and relieving pain.
• Improving product absorption: Jade rolling can also help your skincare products penetrate deeper into your skin and work more effectively. This is because jade rolling creates microchannels on the skin surface that allow serums and moisturizers to reach the deeper layers of the skin. Jade rolling can also prevent product wastage by spreading it evenly over your face.
• Boosting circulation: Jade rolling can also improve blood circulation in your face, which can result in more radiant and plump skin. Blood carries oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells, which are essential for maintaining healthy and youthful skin. By stimulating blood flow, jade rolling can also help with healing wounds, fading scars, and brightening dark spots.

How to use a jade roller correctly?

To get the most out of your jade roller, you need to use it correctly and consistently. Here are some tips on how to use a jade roller for your skin:

• Cleanse your face: Before using a jade roller, make sure your face is clean and free of any makeup or dirt. You can use a gentle cleanser or micellar water to cleanse your face thoroughly.
• Apply a serum or moisturizer: Next, apply a serum or moisturizer of your choice to your face. This will help your jade roller glide smoothly over your skin and also boost product absorption. You can use any product that suits your skin type and concerns, such as hyaluronic acid for hydration, vitamin C for brightening, or retinol for anti-aging.
• Start with your neck: To kick-start the lymphatic drainage process, start by using the large oval side of your jade roller on your neck. Roll it up and down from one side to the other with medium pressure. Repeat this step 3 to 5 times on each side of your neck.
• Move to your jawline: Next, move to your jawline and roll from the center of your chin towards your earlobe with medium pressure. Repeat this step 3 to 5 times on each side of your jawline. This will help to define your jawline and reduce any sagging or jowls.
• Roll over your cheeks: Then, move to your cheeks and roll from the side of your nose towards your temple with medium pressure. Repeat this step 3 to 5 times on each side of your cheeks. This will help to lift and firm your cheeks and reduce any nasolabial folds or smile lines.
• Roll under your eyes: Next, switch to the smaller circular side of your jade roller and roll from the inner corner of your eye towards your ear with light pressure. Repeat this step 3 to 5 times on each side of your eyes. This will help to de-puff and brighten your under-eye area and reduce any dark circles or crow’s feet.
• Roll over your forehead: Finally, move to your forehead and roll from the center of your brow towards your hairline with medium pressure. Repeat this step 3 to 5 times on each side of your forehead. This will help to smooth out any forehead wrinkles and relax any tension headaches.

How often should you use a jade roller?

You can use a jade roller as often as you like, depending on your skin needs and preferences. Some people use it every day, while others use it once or twice a week. The key is to be consistent and gentle with your jade rolling routine, and not to overdo it or apply too much pressure.

You can use a jade roller in the morning or at night, or both. Using it in the morning can help to wake up your skin and reduce any puffiness or dullness. Using it at night can help to relax your skin and enhance product absorption.

You can also use a jade roller before or after applying a sheet mask or a face mask, to boost the benefits of the mask and make it more enjoyable. Just make sure to clean your jade roller before and after each use, by wiping it with a damp cloth or a gentle soap.

What are some precautions to take when using a jade roller?

While jade rolling is generally safe and beneficial for most skin types, there are some precautions to take when using a jade roller, such as:

• Avoid using a jade roller on broken or irritated skin: If you have any cuts, wounds, infections, rashes, or active acne on your face, avoid using a jade roller on those areas, as it can worsen the condition or spread bacteria. Wait until your skin heals before using a jade roller again.
• Avoid using a jade roller if you have a medical condition that affects blood clotting: If you have a medical condition that affects blood clotting, such as hemophilia or thrombocytopenia, consult with your doctor before using a jade roller, as it can increase the risk of bleeding or bruising.
• Avoid using a jade roller if you have an allergy to jade or metal: If you have an allergy to jade or metal, avoid using a jade roller, as it can cause an allergic reaction or irritation on your skin. You can try using other types of facial rollers made of different materials, such as rose quartz, amethyst, or stainless steel.
• Avoid using a fake or low-quality jade roller: If you want to get the best results from jade rolling, make sure to invest in a high-quality jade roller that is made of genuine jade stone and has a sturdy metal handle. Fake or low-quality jade rollers can break easily, scratch your skin, or contain harmful chemicals.

Conclusion

Jade rolling is an ancient beauty practice that can benefit your skin in many ways, such as reducing puffiness, soothing inflammation, improving circulation, and enhancing product absorption. To use a jade roller correctly, you need to cleanse your face, apply a serum or moisturizer, and roll the tool over your face in upward and outward motions with medium pressure. You can use a jade roller as often as you like, but make sure to clean it before and after each use and avoid using it on broken or irritated skin. Jade rolling can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to pamper yourself and improve your skin health.