If you're on social media, you may have come across this trendy beauty tool: the jade roller. It's a device made of jade—or sometimes, rose quartz—used for facial massages. The jade roller boasts many skin benefits, like reducing puffiness, eliminating toxins, and stimulating circulation.

Face rolling has been performed for thousands of years in ancient China, so it seems like this trend is here to stay. But, to reap the full benefits of this practice, it's important you know how to use a jade roller the right way. Read on for more information and tips on jade rolling.

What Does a Jade Roller Do?

The way face rolling with a jade roller works has a lot to do with how the tool is constructed. A jade roller typically has a handle with two oval-shaped stone rollers on each end. Hold the tool by the handle and press one of the rollers to your skin. Gently apply pressure to roll the device across your cheeks, chin, forehead, T-zone, and under your eyes to promote a healthy, plumped-up look.

This motion is beneficial for your skin because it helps move fluids along and increases circulation. It assists with lymphatic drainage, which helps get rid of toxins. Depending on the direction of the jade roller, this can help improve lymphatic flow and facial drainage. A 2018 study in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that short-term facial rolling increases blood flow, too.

Jade rolling evens out your skin texture and color—and as an added bonus, it just feels nice. The cool stones, especially when kept in the refrigerator, can soothe puffy or inflamed skin. Because of its calming nature, many people use a jade roller to manage stress and anxiety and to relax before bed.

While there are many benefits of jade rolling, the effects are usually temporary. The Cleveland Clinic notes that external results are usually seen for only a few hours.

How to Use a Jade Roller Properly

Using a jade roller seems simple—and it is, once you get the hang of it—but you'll want to follow a few essential steps to get the most out of this beauty tool.

Start with a fresh, clean face. Use a facial cleanser before jade rolling to ensure the tool doesn't collect any dirt or bacteria on your skin. The EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser leaves skin squeaky clean and ready for the next steps in your regimen.

Jade rolling can improve the distribution of skin care products, so this is a great time to apply serums, moisturizers, or oils. It also gives the roller a slippery surface for easy gliding. The EltaMD Skin Recovery Serum contains soothing ingredients and a lightweight texture that pair well with jade rolling.

Practice rolling the tool in the right direction. You'll want to avoid rolling back and forth, although it feels like the natural thing to do. Instead, start from the center of your face and roll outward. This pushes the fluids in the right direction. For example, if you want to reduce puffiness under the eyes, start near your nose and roll towards your temple.

Make sure to clean your jade roller with rubbing alcohol after each use. This prevents the buildup of bacteria from skin and residue from your skin care products.

For a cooling effect, don't forget to place the jade roller in the fridge. You can keep it there overnight or just for a couple of hours.

Incorporating a Jade Roller Into Your Skin Care Routine

Face rolling only takes five minutes and can be done twice a day. It fits naturally into any skin care routine, seeing as it can assist in distributing products across your skin. When you wake up, try the EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer with your jade roller to reduce puffiness under your eyes. This moisturizer smoothes skin texture and evens your tone, so it's perfect for face rolling. Then, end the day by jade rolling the EltaMD PM Therapy Facial Moisturizer all over your face to repair damaged skin, boost elasticity, and give you that luminous glow you crave.

If you have mature, sensitive, or fragile skin, start slow and see if jade rolling works for you. Remember, your skin is delicate, so don't roll too aggressively.

While the visual effects of jade rolling are temporary, it's a nice addition to your routine before big events or on special occasions. Or, if you appreciate the relaxation associated with face rolling, it can be a nice way to wind down and show yourself some well-deserved TLC.

Author

  • Lacey Muinos

    Lacey is a Southern California-based freelance writer who combines her passions—fitness, health, and a vegan lifestyle—with her work to help readers feel and be their best. Her work has been featured in Healthline, Livestrong, Verywell Fit, Eat This Not That, KinderBeauty, and more.