Face Tools have really become important and the talk of the town these days. You must have heard about Gua-Sha & Face Rollers? But are you aware of why, when how, and who should use them? What is the difference between these two?
It is always better to ask an expert about this and since it is related to skincare we got in touch with Dermatologist, Dr. Noopur Jain to answer some important questions related to these face tools
WHAT
What is the purpose of a Face roller/Jade Roller & a Gua Sha?
Jade Rollers and Guashas are face tools that help in improving blood circulation of the skin of the face. Their use can be traced back to ancient China where wealthy Chinese women used to use them to maintain their youthful appearance. Jade rollers and Gua-Shas are both made up of semi-precious stones that are known to have healing properties.
There are many said benefits of these face tools such as anti-aging, reducing puffiness, better absorption of skincare products, lymphatic drainage, improving facial contours etc. However, many of these are not scientifically proven yet.
What is the right age to start using them?
Since these are completely non-invasive and safe, they can be started at any age, even early 20s. Broadly speaking, Jade rollers are more beneficial for slightly younger age groups such as 30-45 years whereas Gua-Shas are more beneficial for older age groups such as those above 45-50 years.
WHEN
When should we use them?
They can be used any time of the day. One may use it once or twice daily as per time and comfort. Early morning is a good time to use to reduce the overnight collection of fluids in the skin and the puffiness. You can also use them at night along with your night skincare routine.
HOW
How is a Face Roller different from a Gua sha?
A Face Roller is a handheld facial tool that is dual-ended with jade stone or any other crystal heads. These heads are used on different parts of your face, depending on their size. Whereas, a gua sha is a smooth-edged tool to press and stroke your skin. Gua means to stroke or press, and Sha refers to redness.
How do we decide whether to use a Face roller or a Gua sha or both?
Face rollers are great if you are 30-45years of age whereas Gua shas are great for someone above 45years. It also depends upon the amount of skin sagging and laxity. Gua shas are preferable for someone who has more sagging.
How to choose the right Gua sha stone?
Gua shas are available in various different stones:
- Rose quartz: said to reduce fine lines and remove toxins
- Black obsidian: said to clear negativity and strengthen muscles
- Jade: Said to reduce puffiness, improve lymphatic circulation
- Amethyst: said to have a cooling effect on the skin
Jade is a great option to start with or you can choose the stone based on your concerns.
How should they be cleaned?
You should wash your facial tool with water and soap to ensure that they are clean before using them. They can be kept in the refrigerator for a few hours for an additional cool and soothing effect on the skin. You should clean them with water and dry them properly after you finish using them also.
WHERE
From where can we buy genuine Gua sha ? Any particular brands that you can recommend?
There are many brands commercially available these days but the ones that I have found to be good and genuine are- House of beauty and RAS luxury.
Should we consult a dermatologist before using these products?
Yes. It is highly recommended that you consult a dermatologist before starting anything new on the skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. You would also need to understand the correct technique for using these face tools, what serums or oils to combine with them and how to incorporate them into your existing skincare routine.
Is it appropriate for teenagers /young girls to use face rollers or Gua sha?
Since it’s a new trend in India, we are seeing young girls getting especially attracted to using face tools. Although these are safe tools even for young girls, it is still advisable to consult with a dermatologist first since the skin of teenagers undergoes hormonal changes and is acne-prone.
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Any precautions that should be taken before using these?
- Make sure your skin is clean.
- Your face tools should be properly cleaned and preferably cooled in the refrigerator before using
- Sharing your face tools with anyone
- Consult with a dermatologist before trying out any new oils or serums with the face tools.
- Stop using if u develop any kind of redness or rashes after using.
Any other tips or advice?
Face tools are great for improving the face’s blood circulation and help us feel more relaxed. It’s a great form of self-love and self-care. However, it would be wrong to have unrealistic expectations from using face tools. They won’t be able to erase your fine lines, wrinkles and make your sagginess vanish. On the other hand, they may help in maintaining the results of anti-aging treatments for a longer time. So think of them as a garnish on your regular anti-aging treatments and medical facials.
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