Jade rollers: 9 benefits & how to use them
Jade rollers—what are they, how do you use them, and what can they actually do for your skin? Here's everything you need to know.
Summary
What are jade rollers?
Jade rollers are handheld beauty tools made from jade stone, designed to massage the face. They're not only pleasing to the eye—often found perched on bathroom shelves—but are also thought to promote a firmer, more youthful appearance with regular use.
Some feature one roller, while others are double-ended, with a larger roller for wider facial areas and a smaller one tailored for around the eyes. Much like Gua Sha, jade rollers have a long history rooted in traditional skincare, with jade crystals used in beauty practices for thousands of years.
Do jade rollers really work?
That all depends. While some people swear by facial rolling—jade or otherwise—results vary depending on how the tool is used, the pressure applied, frequency, skincare products involved, and the condition of the user’s skin.
Jade rollers are meant to glide across the skin with gentle pressure, helping to stimulate the facial muscles and reduce puffiness. Refrigerating them beforehand can give an extra cooling effect, although jade naturally stays cool during use.
Facial massage may also increase blood circulation, and jade is often believed to draw out negative energy and rebalance your chi.
Summary
Jade rollers are either single or dual-ended tools made from cool, semi-precious jade stone. They're used to gently massage the face, and may support skin health through both material and technique.
How do you use a jade facial roller?
Good news—it’s not hard to learn. The process might feel unfamiliar at first, but with a couple of practice sessions, it becomes second nature.
How to use a jade facial roller
- Start at the center of your chin and roll outward and upward towards your ear.
- Move to the side of your mouth and repeat the motion.
- Next, start at the side of your nose and roll outward.
- Roll under the eyes, sweeping toward the temple, and repeat along the eyelid area.
- On the forehead, roll upward from the brow to the hairline.
- Then roll horizontally outward towards the temples.
- Repeat the process on both sides of the face.
Expert tip: Always move in upward strokes without dragging the tool across your skin.
What is the benefit of a jade roller?
Why choose jade rollers over other facial tools? Here’s a closer look at the potential perks.
9 jade roller benefits
1. Improved circulation
Facial massage stimulates your lymphatic system, encouraging circulation and helping to move along excess fluid.
2. Brighter skin
Facial rolling can give your skin a healthy glow. A 2018 study found that just 5 minutes of facial massage led to increased blood flow in the cheeks.
3. Reduced puffiness
When the lymphatic system flushes out fluid, facial swelling and puffiness often reduce, giving more defined features.
4. Anti-ageing
In a 2017 study, participants who used a massage tool with their anti-ageing cream saw more visible improvements in wrinkles than those who used the cream alone.
5. Easy to use
Jade rollers don't require advanced skills. Once you're familiar with the motions, it becomes a simple, daily routine.
6. DIY facial
Rather than book spa appointments, jade rollers let you give yourself a rejuvenating facial from the comfort of your home.
7. Pamper time
Adding a short jade rolling session to your morning or evening can be a small but meaningful act of self-care.
8. Improved mood
A 2008 study found that facial massage had uplifting effects on the mood of participants, making it a potential emotional booster.
9. Minimum fuss
Once you have a jade roller, there are no extra tools or products required. Just keep it clean and you’re good to go.
Which is better: rose quartz or jade roller?
The answer depends on personal preference, as both stones offer different qualities.
Rose quartz facial rollers
This stone is associated with love and openness. Rose quartz rollers are slightly harder, smoother, and better at retaining temperature, making them a good fit for sensitive skin. They’re often linked with emotional balance and detoxification.
Jade facial rollers
Jade is tied to calmness and inner peace. Its natural texture makes it slightly bumpier than rose quartz, though it's naturally cool to the touch. Because it's more porous, regular cleaning is key to keeping bacteria at bay.
Are jade rollers bad?
Not necessarily, but there are times when you should avoid using them. If your skin is inflamed, irritated, or broken out, jade rolling may make matters worse. It's also best to avoid using them over active cold sores.
Since rollers cover your entire face, they can spread bacteria if not properly cleaned. Always sanitize your tool after each use.
Summary
Both jade and rose quartz rollers have qualities that can support skin health. Rose quartz is smoother and ideal for very sensitive skin, while jade naturally stays cool and is calming. Whichever you choose, cleanliness is key.
Takeaway
Everyone can use jade rollers, with no strict rules about when or how often. They're user-friendly and may offer several skincare benefits—from boosting circulation to refreshing the complexion. Once you get used to it, you may wonder how you ever got by without one.
Disclaimer
The advice in this article is for information only and should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP or healthcare professional before trying any supplements, treatments or remedies. Food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Sources
- https://www.glamour.com/story/what-do-jade-rollers-do
- https://us.cnn.com/2019/06/20/cnn-underscored/jade-roller-benefits-explainer/index.html
- https://www.byrdie.com/do-jade-rollers-work
- https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/beauty/skincare/a19507946/jade-rollers-benefits-tips/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0965229918306423
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5383004/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/face-roller-benefits#face-roller-myths
- https://www.elle.com.au/beauty/do-jade-rollers-actually-work-15808