Jade facial rollers, the skincare trend straight from Ancient China
Jade facial rolling is the new Botox. The idea of incorporating the healing properties of crystals into a daily skincare routine is immediately intriguing.
In ancient China jade was the ultimate symbol of beauty, grace and immortality. Synonymous with wealth and opulence, this beautiful green stone has numerous healing properties. Commonly worn for protection and good luck, jade stone is also known to balance the emotions, calm the mind and release negativity. Jade can refer to two different types of crystal – Jadeite and Nephrite. The former is a lighter translucent stone, with the latter generally being darker in colour and easier to find. Both stones have similar healing properties.
In skincare jade is used to cleanse and rid the body of toxins. Combining facial massage with the unique detoxifying properties of jade boosts lymphatic drainage and stimulates blood flow. An amazing anti-aging treatment, adding facial rolling into your daily routine will firm up the skin, reduce puffiness and dark circles around the eye area and decongest the sinuses. It is also appropriate for those who suffer from breakouts, preventing the build-up of nasty toxins which cause spots. The natural properties of jade mean it stays cool to the touch, even in hot conditions. This cooling effect makes it ideal for soothing a headache.
You can find jade facial rollers in top spas and acupuncture clinics, and on the dressing tables of the glamorous. Model fans include Daisy Lowe, Kate Moss and Lily Cole to name just a few. Star recommendations also come from Debbie Harry, Sadie Frost and celebrity facialist Nichola Joss.
For best results, perform jade facial rolling on clean skin after cleansing. It works well on dry skin or after applying a natural moisturiser or facial oil. The idea is to sweep upwards and outwards around the face and neck, using lighter pressure around the delicate eye area.
There are other skincare secrets that we can learn from ancient China.
Rice water toner
After cooking rice, think twice before pouring the left over water down the sink. Rice is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E and makes a great after cleansing skin treat. Let the milky water cool and apply it using cotton wool pads. Follow with your usual moisturiser. Cover and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Kelp face mask
Seaweed and kelp are favourites in the Chinese diet. Being nutrient dense, they are also a key ingredient in traditional skincare treatments. Make a rejuvenating kelp face mask by combining kelp with pure aloe vera gel in a blender.
Green tea and goji berries
Goji berries and green tea are a winning snack time combination for luminous skin. Green tea is rich in antioxidants, strengthens the immune system and has anti-aging properties. Chinese Traditional Medicine states that skin health is directly related to the health of the liver and the amount of heat in the blood. Not only do goji berries contain vitamin C and beta carotene, they also nourish the liver and blood.
Facial massage
Facial massage reduces puffiness, strengthens facial muscles and promotes cell regeneration. This simple practice has been incorporated into the everyday routines of clued up Chinese women for centuries. Rub gently upwards in a circular motion, make sure to avoid pulling and stretching your skin and never pull downwards.
(Always check for skin sensivity first before trying out any preparation)
