The Benefits of Facial Rolling and Gua Sha Tool

You have seen them on your Instagram feeds. You might have even seen them on ads and bazaars in the past year. These pretty and colorful face rollers and gua sha have become skincare essential. Many influencers and celebrities swear by their perks, leading to the tools’ social media popularity despite having been around as early as the 7th century.

Have you got one yet? Do you know what it is or how to use them? Allow us to break down these beauty tools for you!

What is face rolling and what good can it do to my skin?

A face roller bears a similar appearance to a paint roller and is usually made from jade, rose quartz, or other crystals. Most face rollers come with two functional ends. The larger end is used for the forehead, cheeks, jawline, and neck. Meanwhile, the smaller one is used under the eyes.

It is made to massage the face with oil and/or serum, which also helps the skin absorb the beauty products better. Face rollers are usually the last step in the skincare routine. Others chill their face rollers or dip it in hot water before use. Some even use it over their makeup to achieve a more natural, glowing finish. Face rolling is believed to help drain toxins and contour the face - one reason why it’s popular among celebrities, beauty experts, and consumers.

How do I use a face roller?

•        First, cleanse your face and apply your skincare products (moisturizer, serum, eye cream, beauty oil, etc.).

•        Use your face roller in a singular and upward direction. Do NOT roll up and down.

•        Do up to five upward rolls in each area of the face, starting under the jawline.

•        Then move the face roller out towards your hairline, under the cheekbones, and along them.

•        Next, roll it flat along with your eyebrows and up towards the forehead.

•        Lastly, make the same upward motion on your neck.

Gua sha and its benefits

A gua sha is a stone tool typically made with semi-precious crystals like a face roller, but they take on a firm, flat, and curved appearance. The name translates from Chinese to “scraping,” but only because it is meant to be pressed on the skin and moved in upward strokes. It was initially used for the body to release toxins and relieve muscle pains.

Using a gua sha tool allows you to apply more pressure to your skin, making for better blood circulation and stimulation of the lymphatic system. With continued use, this beauty tool draws out stagnation in your problem areas which aids in generating metabolic cell repair and healing. It can also tone your skin and promote increased skin elasticity. Many have dubbed it as a needle-free alternative to Botox treatment.

How do I use a gua sha tool?

•        Like face rollers, you need a clean and well-oiled face before using a gua sha tool.

•        It also follows an upward direction but scrape the tool across and down your face. Make sure to apply on the jawline, cheeks, and forehead.

•        Switch to a zigzag motion around the mouth area.

What is the difference between the two?

Most people often mistake the two to do the same thing. However, aside from the shape and usage, there are key differences and benefits between face rollers and gua sha tools.

A face roller is mainly a lymphatic drainage massage that emphasizes the contact between the stone and the skin. Each crystal is said to present different benefits (apart from the act of face rolling itself). Here are the most used crystals:

•        Jade

•        This crystal is known to raise the skin’s immunity and encourage the growth of new skin cells – great for wrinkles and loose skin. It also possesses highly calming properties making it ideal for those who suffer from irritated skin conditions.

•        Rose Quartz

•        Well-loved for its healing qualities, this crystal helps reduce and release the skin’s impurities. Those who wish to destress and detox their skin will find the rose quartz appealing. Aside from flushing out toxins and negativity, it also helps soften fine lines and wrinkles.

•        Amethyst

•        Amethyst is a powerful, protective crystal that functions as a natural tranquilizer. It can relieve stress and strain, and even soothe skin inflammation. Those who have acne-prone skin greatly benefit from it, too.

•        Black Obsidian

•        With continued use, the black obsidian helps release the skin’s imbalances by bringing them to the surface. Once released, it begins to heal and rejuvenate the skin and on all levels.

Furthermore, facial rollers are fast and convenient options to stimulate blood flow and drain puffiness. With a quick roll, you can activate your lymphatic system and clear your skin from potential infections.

Meanwhile, a gua sha tool is primarily a fascial (fibrous tissue) release massage. It relieves tension in facial muscles, which can cause lines. It can even be used to relax soreness in the neck and shoulders.

Unlike a facial roller, using gua sha relies more on its scraping technique rather than the stone used. It is also a far more deep and indulgent form of self-care, allowing you to connect with your skin fully. Just stroking your face with it reduces the appearance of wrinkles and enhances a firmer complexion. While it may take a bit more time to finish the routine, you can be rewarded with a smoother, brighter, and younger-looking skin after continued use.

The Takeaway

Whether you are using a facial roller or a gua sha tool (or both), the secret to great skin lies in addressing a stagnant lymphatic flow. Stimulating this can remedy most skin conditions by flushing out the excess or potential waste out of your system. Think of it as a rejuvenating spa treatment for your face as you take the pressure off the skin to reveal a healthy, vibrant glow.

Partnered with your trusted skin care products, using a face roller and gua sha tool can help round out and maximize your routine. Just using one or both for several minutes every day can make a difference over time. Let these beauty tools help you achieve your best skin yet.