When it comes to skincare, there are numerous products and tools available in the market. Â From facial rollers to gua sha stones, each tool has its own unique benefits for different skin types. In this skincare story, we will explore the different kinds of skin tools that are trending in the beauty world and how they can help you achieve healthy, glowing skin.
Jade roller
These Chinese jade rolling devices were traditionally used for their healing properties and are now popular on TikTok as skincare tools. They are designed to be rolled upward on the neck and face.
How to use
Here are some ways to use jade rollers, as suggested by Dr Kisalay Saurav, dermatologist and cosmetologist, Bengaluru.
- Â Use a jade roller after washing your hands and applying cream. This can be done for five minutes a day. Â Â It will help the product seep into the skin. When using it on the face, roll it outwards from the centre of your face against gravity. When using it on the neck, roll it downwards towards the collarbones.
- A 2018 study published after a randomised controlled trial found that prolonged use of a jade roller increases blood circulation, making the skin radiant.
- The best way to use a jade roller is to keep it in the refrigerator. Anything cool, when applied to the skin, reduces inflammation, be it an ice pack, a cold splash of water, or a jade roller. It relaxes the tissues and is also said to help make the skin taut. However, this has not been scientifically proven so far.
- Poor sleep, any infection, and fluid retention can slow blood circulation, and one of the ways it manifests is as dark circles and swollen under-eyes. Jade rollers help with blood circulation and thus bring down dark circles and puffy under-eyes.
- Jade rollers relax the muscles and help reduce stress. A 2017 study also found that using a massager like a jade roller can help increase the amount of protein in the tissues.
- Always clean a jade roller before use with warm water and soap. Use it only on clean skin and never on breakouts as it could spread the bacteria.
Face cleansing brush
These are silicone brushes, which can also be electric, that help you wash and cleanse the face. It exfoliates the skin by removing the dead cells. An electric brush can help remove excess oil and impurities, says Dr Saurav.
How to use
Wah your face with a facewash. Then use the brush in a circular motion for one or two minutes.
A face brush makes the face texture even and can even bring a glow.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology  found that using such a brush on the face and neck helps to manage acne. Since you are exfoliating on a regular basis, there are fewer chances of the pores getting clogged. Therefore, with time, one experiences less acne.
Deep cleansing body brush
It does exactly what the face cleansing brush does, says Dr Saurav. You can get to all the corners of your body with this as it usually comes with a long handle. It helps exfoliate the skin and works deeper than your regular loofah, helping with boosting blood circulation.
The ayurvedic Kansa wand
Kansa wand is a dome-shaped metal massaging tool for the face. It is a 5,000-year-old facial technique designed to boost blood circulation, says Dr Uday Nesargi, Bengaluru-based cosmetologist. The metal is believed to make the skin more alkaline, thus making it less prone to inflammation.
How to use
- Moisten your face with oil or a serum.
- Then apply the Kansa wand with gentle, deep pressure on the skin. You can move it in circular motions around the eye socket, draw the number eight on the forehead, and roll it outwards towards the jaw. Also, roll it down on the neck, says Dr Nesargi.
It could leave a grey shade on the skin, which means that the Kansa is working. The pH from the metal reacts with the acidity of our skin and releases heat and acidity from the skin through a process called oxidisation, thus the grey tinge. You can just wipe it off later, he adds.
Gel eye mask
If you spend extended hours working on the computer, this product can be a blessing. Fatigue often leads to the appearance of dark circles among young adults. According to Dr Nesargi, using a gel eye mask, particularly one that has been chilled in the refrigerator, can effectively diminish puffiness, and gradually alleviate dark circles with regular use.
Moreover, if you are experiencing sinus-related discomfort, using a cold gel eye mask, and taking a 20-minute nap can help alleviate the pain.
Dr Nesargi also suggests the use of a gel eye mask throughout the day, if you ensure its cleanliness.
Microdermabrasion tools
These tools are designed to exfoliate the skin and eliminate dead cells, resulting in a cleaner and healthier complexion, says Dr Saurav. The procedure is minimally invasive and involves the use of exfoliating crystals onto the skin, followed by their removal through a handheld vacuum system. It is safe to use once a week on all skin types. However, experts advise to avoid it if you have developed acne recently, eczema, or damaged skin, as it may exacerbate the condition.
According to Dr Saurav, this method can effectively address minor skin scarring, sun damage, and discoloration, while promoting a uniform texture.
How to use
Wash your face, then use the microdermabrasion tool. Clean the face again and finish with a moisturiser.
Steamer
Dr Nesargi highlights the numerous benefits of facial steaming, all of which are supported by scientific evidence.
- Cleansing: Steam opens pores, facilitating the removal of dirt, blackheads, and whiteheads.
- Glow: Steaming increases perspiration and enhances blood circulation, resulting in a radiant complexion.
- Acne-fighting: By opening pores, steam effectively clears acne-causing bacteria, dirt, and dead cells.
- Moisturising: Steaming helps regulate sebum (skin’s natural oil) by unclogging pores and releasing trapped oil, thereby moisturising the skin naturally.
- Sinus congestion relief: Facial steaming clears the nasal cavity and can alleviate headaches.
- Enhanced absorption: Opening pores through steaming makes it easier for the skin to absorb moisturisers effectively.
