Puffiness and tired skin is an unfortunate reality for many of us, especially in the morning. But a simple tool, called a facial roller, may be the key to removing toxins and reducing puffiness. It almost sounds too good to be true, so we dug into the research to find out if facial rollers are just a trend or if there is evidence they can really benefit your skincare routine. Keep reading to learn more about facial rollers and if they’re a good option for your skin.
What is a Facial Roller?
A facial roller looks like a small paint roller with a solid stone—usually jade, sometimes quartz—at the end. It can have a large stone on one end for the bigger areas of your face (forehead, cheeks, neck) and a smaller stone for under the eyes and around the mouth. Jade has been used for centuries as a massage tool and is a symbol of purity, health, and spirituality in Chinese culture. It’s also believed to have healing properties to remove toxins and absorb negative energy. While there may not be hard science behind the metaphysical claims, the cool stone combined with a facial massage can potentially help manage several skin issues.
Similar to jade, the rose quartz crystal has cooling stone properties. Choosing a stone can depend on your budget, belief in ancient Chinese traditions, or simply which color looks better on your vanity.
Benefits of Using a Facial Roller
Massaging is known to increase blood circulation, which brings oxygen to the skin and can result in a visible glow. If you suffer from inflammation or rosacea, bumping up blood circulation may not be the right solution for you because it can increase redness.
Another main benefit of the facial roller is drainage of the lymph nodes—a natural detoxification process that reduces puffiness by removing excess water. A chilled roller (pop it in the freezer for a few minutes in the morning) can further combat swelling, similar to applying ice to swelled skin but with the added luxury of the crystal. If you’re in need of some serious lymphatic drainage, it may not have the same results as an expert’s fingertips, but daily massaging can offer some short-term effects.
The relaxing motions of rolling the stone back and forth can also lower stress levels and potentially reduce breakouts and other stress-related skin issues.
Myths Debunked
- Skincare absorption: The stone helps keep skincare products against your skin and spread oils and creams more evenly, but won’t necessarily allow them to penetrate further into the skin.
- Reduce wrinkles: The roller will not reduce wrinkles or increase collagen stimulation. It can, however, result in temporary toned and flushed skin which can hide the appearance of wrinkles.
- Cure breakouts: Unfortunately it’s not a miracle acne zapper, but the daily massage can reduce stress levels and indirectly help resolve acne problems.
- Contour facial muscles: Facial massages are intended to release tension and boost blood circulation, which can result in plumped skin. Although a facial roller won’t actually lift muscles for long-term effects, it can provide a temporary glow.
How to Clean a Facial Roller
You can simply clean the crystal nightly with warm water and soap. Since the nonporous stone won’t retain bacteria, it’s easy to keep clean!
Conclusion
Many dermatologists believe a facial roller can promote blood circulation and aid in lymphatic drainage when done correctly. Even if you don’t notice any visible changes, the ritual act of massaging with the crystal stone can act as a relaxing meditative practice before. With models ranging from $20 to $90, there’s a roller for everyone.
