If you've spotted a jade roller on your favorite beauty influencer's Instagram grid, you may be wondering what all the fuss is about - or even what it really is.
We spoke with skin expert Dr. Lucy Glancey to learn more about what a jade roller is, how to use it, and the purported benefits for your skin.
What does a jade roller do?
While jade rollers seem to be the latest beauty trend, you may be surprised to learn that jade rollers are actually a centuries-old Eastern tradition used in Chinese medicine to help balance the "qi" (or life force). But what do they do?
The magic of the jade tumbler lies primarily in the fact that it is a cool stone that maintains its temperature even when in contact with warm skin.
"Jade rollers can be used for a variety of reasons," reveals Dr. Glancey. These, she explains, include.
Sculpting
Toning
Tightening the skin
Promoting circulation
Reducing puffiness
Promotes the detoxification process of the lymphatic system by improving the blood flow under the skin
Reduces the appearance of fine lines and premature aging
Unclogs pores
Of course, another benefit is the relaxing nature of the rollers - many women say it feels like a mini facial massage.
How to use the Jade Roller
As with most things in life, technique is everything.
"Most jade rollers have two ends - a larger side and a smaller side," says Dr. Glancey. "The larger side is used for larger areas of the face, and the smaller side is used for smaller areas, such as under the eyes, eyebrows and nose.
'It's best to cleanse the face thoroughly before rolling. Follow with a serum or moisturizer to make sure the skin is moist - it's best to leave the skin slightly damp so it will be more comfortable when using the roller.
'Start at the chin and roll horizontally to the hairline. The pressure should be light and comfortable. The smaller end of the jade roller should be used around the eyes, so place it in the inner corner of the eye and roll it toward the temple. You can also roll it from the eyebrows up to the hairline, moving across the forehead. The smaller side can also be used under the nose area, moving it in a horizontal motion.
"After rolling, complete your normal skin care routine of cleansing, toning and moisturizing."
How often should you use a jade roller?
Love the relaxing feel of the Jade Roll-On? The good news is that there is no limit to how often you can do this.
"You can use the Jade Roller as often as you need to, once or twice a day or three times a week," confirms Dr. Glancey. "It all depends on using the right technique, so check out the YouTube video or you could be in danger of just stimulating your skin or doing nothing at all."
Can everyone use a jade roller?
It may be a relaxing addition to your skincare routine, but is the Jade Roller suitable for all skin tones and skin types?
"Most people can use a jade roller, but it's important to use good technique," says Dr. Glancey.' Like anything, if you rub too hard on your skin, you can actually aggravate acne or cause sensitivity. It's also important to keep it clean, because bacteria can grow.
Do jade rollers really work?
So, you know how to use them and the supposed benefits, but as always the million dollar question is, do jade rollers really work?
Unfortunately, there is no concrete scientific evidence to support the benefits of jade rollers, and it is unlikely that they have long-term anti-aging properties or can clear up skin conditions such as eczema, acne or rashes. That said, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence that jade rollers can improve the tone and appearance of the skin.
Dr. Glancey confirms, "There is no real evidence that jade rollers actually do all that is suggested." "However, many women claim it helps reduce puffiness, minimize fine lines and give them more radiant skin."
How to choose a jade roller
If you want to try a jade roller, you'll first need to purchase one. But with so many on the market (and many at such affordable prices), what should you look for?
"A jade roller is relatively inexpensive and looks great, especially when your favorite influencer uses it in a photo and claims all sorts of things," says Dr. Glancey. Unfortunately, production of real jade has been declining in recent years, so many imitations have appeared on the market. These can be made from another stone, such as marble, which has been chemically treated to give it a green appearance. The appearance of real jade varies from dark green to light green with white swirls. If there are no imperfections on the roller, such as black dots or white swirls, it has most likely been dyed and treated, and is therefore a fake.
Another clue as to whether your jade roller is authentic lies in how it feels.
"Jade is cool to the touch, so if it feels warm to the touch, or doesn't cool down quickly after use, it's probably a fake." Also, pay attention to the price - yes, they're fairly cheap, but if you're looking for a super cheap product, it's probably not the real thing.
