Hey girl. Treat Yo Self is a series that focuses on inexpensive indulgences that make you feel good without feeling guilty. Because when momma’s not happy, nobody is happy. Today, we’re diving into beauty and skincare and exploring the awesomeness of jade rollers. We talk about the benefits of jade rollers, the myths, and why you should add one to your skincare routine.
A couple of months ago my friend Ashley and I were coworking when we ordered jade rollers on a whim… like you do. They’ve been all over Instagram and looked so cool and luxurious—like a tool for the fanciest and most relaxed of ladies. On the verge of major burn out mode, I wanted to be that lady! So when we found the things on Amazon for under $10, it seemed like a no-brainer.
Insta ladies and articles online were claiming that jade rollers do everything from depuffing your face to boosting circulation and helping your skin absorb creams and serums. Not all of the claims turn out to be 100% true, but honestly, it doesn’t matter. I am obsessed!
What the heck is a jade roller?
They might look like just another pretty Instagram fad, but these little suckers have actually been around since the 7th century! According to an interview on Coveteur, ancient Chinese elites used them to “smooth out fine lines and wrinkles and to promote a brighter complexion.”
Jade rollers are basically handheld massagers made out of jade stone that you roll all over your face. The top stone is larger than the bottom, which is used on smaller areas like under your eyes. The natural stones come in different shades, which means you can find jade rollers in anything from dark green to almost translucent.
If you’re into the mystical, magical world of crystals, jade is thought to draw out bad energy and toxins. If you think crystal healing is a load of shit, I can tell you that jade is a naturally cool stone that feels really freaking good on your skin (bonus points if you store it in the fridge!).
Is the jade roller hype real?
Yes and no. People have said that jade rollers accomplish SO MANY things! Here is a list of benefits you can find from just a quick Google search:
- boost blood circulation
- help your skincare products penetrate deeper
- reduce dark under-eye circles and puffiness
- smooth out fine lines and wrinkles
- stimulate the lymphatic system
- brighten complexions
- tighten pores
The list goes on and on and on— no wonder people are jumping on the bandwagon, right?
Experts are a little split on what jade rollers actually accomplish.
Everyone agrees that they massage your face (always start at the center and roll it up and out. This how-to diagram is helpful). Massages can help reduce tension and move fluids around. If done correctly, using a jade roller can help drain your lymph nodes by stimulating your lymphatic system. This is where the whole depuffing theory comes in. The coolness of the stone also helps reduce swelling and tightens your pores (at least temporarily). Some experts don’t think it will do as much as a massage with your favorite facialist, but they do admit that it increases blood flow and circulation, which is what some say helps brighten your skin.
What most experts can agree on is that using a jade roller does not help products sink deeper into your skin. They will certainly help spread serums and creams evenly over your skin, but they don’t have any effect on how deep a product goes and they don’t magically allow your skin to take in more product. Like a sponge, your skin can only absorb so much.
Should I incorporate a jade roller into my beauty routine?
Yes, yes, yes!
Even if every single one of the benefits above is proven wrong tomorrow, I would recommend buying a jade roller right this second.
The ritual of rolling the cool stone up your face is so damn calming. It’s an easy, relaxing thing that you can do for yourself every single day that doesn’t take up too much time or energy. And it feels so freaking indulgent. I am that fabulously fancy and relaxed lady when I use mine.
Also, I’ve found it to work really well at relieving sinus pressure, congestion, headaches, and tightness in my jaw when I’m stressed out.
And it costs less than $10! My friend. TREAT YO SELF.
Looking for more posts on beauty and skincare? Try these:
- Super Simple DIY Body Butter
- Ask the Expert | How Do I Get My Lipstick to Stay?
- Treat Yo Self | Honey Lemon Mask
- Treat Yo Self | Peppermint Brown Sugar Body Scrub
- Wellness Challenge | Drink More Water
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Hi! I'm Jen, a freelance writer and girl mom who loves reading the newest children’s books as much as I love a good psychological thriller. I believe fiercely in the power of kindness, empathy, and really good quality chocolate. When I'm not knee-deep in glittery crafts and girl talk, you can probably find me sprawled out on my couch in the middle of a Netflix marathon with dark chocolate smeared on my face. The struggle is real. 
I haven’t tried a jade roller – I didn’t even know they existed. Lol I haven’t had a face massage before and I bet the jade roller would feel great.
I’ve never had a face massage (or a facial!) either! I feel like this is the I don’t have to feel guilty because it costs so little version. lol. Although we totally need to stop feeling bad about taking care of ourselves!
I’m so glad we got in on this random indulgence together! I keep mine in the fridge, too. I haven’t tried it for my headaches, but that’s a great idea!
This sounds like a wonderful alternative to an expensive facial. Thank you for sharing.
I have never heard of a jade roller before. I’ll have to look into it more!! 🙂
I’ve been wanting a jade roller soo badly but the one I want is sold out!! Definitely ordering one soon! Thanks for sharing!