Key Points
- Facial rolling is the practice of rolling a jade or rose quartz crystal on the skin.
- These tools have become popular in skincare.
- Benefits may include lymphatic drainage and muscle relaxation, but more research is needed.
Face massage rollers have found their way into modern skincare routines. Whether it’s jade or quartz, these sleek, shiny rollers are said to give an Instagram-worthy glow.
But do they live up to the hype? And are there proven benefits to incorporating a roller into your skincare routine? We seek advice from healthylife naturopath Gabbie Watt to learn more.
What do face rollers do?
The hype around facial massage rollers is big, and the claims about their benefits are bold. But what do they actually do? These tools are made with a jade or rose quartz crystal attached to a handle, similar to a tiny rolling pin. The stone rolls back and forth on the skin, providing a delicate massage.
Although stone rolling may be a welcome addition to your skincare routine, the benefits still need to be proven. However, learning how to use a face roller properly may help.
How to use a face roller
Facial rollers are relatively straightforward to use. Before you begin, cleanse your face to remove any built-up grime, oil or makeup. Gabbie recommends these steps when adding a roller to your routine.
- Moisturise your skin. “It’s important to apply a lubricant to not pull on the skin while rolling,” says Gabbie.
- Roll downwards. The direction of the rolling is essential to the results you want to achieve, so start at the forehead. “Roll the facial roller in downward strokes to move the lymph fluid towards the neck nodes.”
- Repeat the process. Repeat the rolling movement over the face for 5–10 minutes.
Importantly, Gabbie advises that using a face roller isn’t always recommended, so consider the health of your skin first. “If there is a bacterial or other infection of the skin, a facial roller may contribute to the spread of bacteria, such as in acne,” she describes. Instead, wait for the skin to clear up before using your roller.
Jade and rose quartz face rollers may be of some benefit, but more research is needed
Do face rollers work?
Devotees believe that jade and quartz face rollers may do wonders for your skin and mood. The simple truth is that research on their benefits is lacking.
Although there are reports of practices like facial massage and skin scraping therapy in ancient healing, the beginnings of face rollers — and their efficacy — are unknown. “It’s difficult to pinpoint the origin of facial rollers,” Gabbie tells us, “as each culture has a variation of massage techniques used for the face and body.”
Additionally, she notes no difference in the literature about rose quartz roller benefits and jade face roller benefits.
Facial massage with a jade or rose quartz roller may help increase circulation
Face roller benefits
While encouraging, the benefits of using a jade or quartz roller are based mainly on anecdotal reports. And according to Gabbie, there aren’t yet enough scientific studies on the rollers.
“While there isn’t a lot of evidence specifically related to jade or quartz rollers for skin benefits, the lymphatic drainage action effect they have may benefit any oedema of the face,” says Gabbie. Additionally, the act of massaging the face can help too. “Facial massage may also increase circulation to the skin cells, which can have a beneficial effect on delivering nutrients to them.”
Although anecdotal, other reported face roller benefits you might experience include:
- Improved product absorption. Some people believe that rolling may help their skin better absorb creams and serums.
- Relaxation Many users report that facial rolling is soothing, which is why the ritual of face rolling may serve as a form of self-care.
- Enhanced skin appearance. While this is hard to measure scientifically, many users report a more glowing, vibrant complexion after using a face roller.
All in all, there is not a lot of scientific evidence for the benefits of using a face roller. Research may come to light now that they are becoming more mainstream.
Remember that these benefits are based on personal experience. Results are often subjective, so it’s a good idea to maintain realistic expectations when introducing a new product or tool to your skincare routine.
Investing in a quality face roller may be a way to practice self-care
Is facial rolling more myth than miracle?
The easiest way to find out is to invest in a good facial roller and to try it yourself. It might become your new favourite self-care ritual or pleasant addition to your skincare routine.
Related:
Gabbie Watt is a Naturopath and is passionate about blending evidence-based practice and traditional natural medicine into her approach. With experience previously working as a Radiation Therapist, Gabbie’s professional background in conventional medicine has been instrumental in shaping her holistic approach to health.
Reviewed by the healthylife Advisory Board July 2023.
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