Jade always makes me think of my mom. When I was a child she wore a jade bracelet she never took off. In Vietnamese culture, women wear a jade bracelet on their left wrist for good luck. Hers was so lucky it got stuck, which is the main reason most of my memories are of her wearing it! It wasn’t until I was in my teens that she was able to painfully get it off her wrist.
But the history of the facial jade rollers we know today actually originate in ancient China where women used jade to maintain beautiful and youthful skin. Now you can find jade rollers on Amazon, at your local beauty store, or even at Target and Walmart. I received mine in my Fab Fit Fun box last year, which is when I started to learn more about the benefits of using it every morning.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A JADE ROLLER
Lymphatic drainage – Our lymphatic system is part of our immune system and works to rid our body of toxins, among other things. A jade roller can help boost our skin’s natural detoxification process by helping to move lymphatic fluids towards the lymph nodes, drawing out impurities.
Improves circulation – As with any massage, a jade roller will help improve circulation.
Firmer, brighter skin – The natural cooling properties of jade, along with the gentle massage and detoxification, will result in overall improved elasticity and reduced puffiness and wrinkles.
Aids in product absorption – Rolling after applying product such as serums and moisturizers will help your skin better absorb the product.
Relaxation & stress relief – Using my jade roller has become somewhat ritualistic for me in the morning and the cool massage definitely helps start my day with a little calm and self care.
HOW TO USE A JADE ROLLER
First and foremost, always use a light touch. The roller should never be applied with too much pressure to pull and tug at your skin.
Start with your neck. There is conflicting information on whether to roll upwards or downwards. Since there are lymph nodes at the base of the neck, rolling downwards will encourage toxin drainage and clear the lymphatic system before starting on the rest of your face. So I have chosen to roll the neck downwards. Then, starting with your chin, roll gently from the center of your face outwards towards your ears, the location of another set of lymph nodes. Work your way gently up your face. When rolling under the eyes and on the eye lids, flip the roller around and use the smaller side. End the jade rolling with your forehead, out and down towards your ears.
HOW TO CLEAN A JADE ROLLER
Before putting your jade roller away in a cool, dry place (some even store their jade rollers in the fridge to keep them extra cool!), be sure to clean with warm water and mild soap. I use my Cetaphil face cleaner. Dry with a soft towel and store away until your next morning ritual!
Get rolling and stay healthy!