The importance of scoring yourself some quality skincare products cannot be understated. But sometimes, a trusty tool or two can really help make the most out of your regimen. But with so many gadgets out there, how can we distinguish the diamonds from the duds? Read on for a breakdown of some of today’s most popular and promising facial tools and how to use them.
IN A NUTSHELL
Main Takeaways: Quality facial tools are wonderful for augmenting your regimen. Many of them can even help you better absorb all of your quality products, helping you take your skincare game to the next level.
Good to Know: Contrary to common belief, you don’t have to break the bank to snag a good skincare tool. There are many affordable options on the market that consistently deliver great, if not exceptional, results.
Recommended Products: Rose and Shine Rose Water Toner, Prince Charcoal Detox Mask, Just Dew It Hydrating Serum, and Nectar of the C Vitamin C Serum.
Facial Cleansing Brush
These bristle-bearing tools are designed to deliver a deeper clean than one would otherwise get with fingertips alone. The result is a more clarified complexion and greater absorption of moisturizers and serums. Many are battery operated to deliver rotation or a sonic pulse to easily dislodge dirt and contaminants; some even claim to have an exfoliating effect.
More classic models feature nylon bristles, while modern designs are often made of hyper-hygienic silicone. For best results, remove any makeup you may be wearing prior to use. Those with oily skin can feel free to use their cleansing brush once daily, while those with normal to dry or sensitive skin may want to stick to only twice per week. Either way, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on ways to apply your cleanser and how exactly to move the brush around your face for a safe and effective cleanse.
Facial Steamer
If you’ve ever had a quality facial, you know the value of a good steam. The warm vapor swiftly opens up pores, loosening dirt, oil, and debris, while simultaneously activating our sweat glands to then flush them out. It also hydrates and softens for a youthful, dewy glow. However, you don’t have to go to a professional to get the benefits.
In-home facial steamers are great for those with oily, blackhead-prone, or cystic skin, as it helps to clarify the pore shaft. And while those with sensitive skin should be careful to not overdo it, a quick 10-15-minute steam once or twice a week can help your products be better absorbed by softer skin and clean pores. We love using a clay-based mask whilst steaming, such as our Prince Charcoal detox mask.
There are a host of in-home facial steamers available to consumers nowadays and they run the gamut in price. But there are many that are both affordable and effective, like this pretty, compact facial steamer that doubles as a makeup mirror.
Extractor
This tool is a highly controversial one, as many extractors - which are designed to unclog pores - can often have the opposite effect if used incorrectly. However, facial extractors have come a long way, and some are now much more fool proof, requiring little-to-no technical knowledge when the thin, metal, operating room-esque tools of yore are replaced by battery powered vacuums.
One should still first consult with their dermatologist before picking up a quality extractor and then proceed with caution, as bruising can occur if used incorrectly. As always, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and only engage your extractor when both your skin and the device have been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Lastly, opt for one with interchangeable heads and variable suction controls so you can set it appropriately for your skin’s needs. And be sure to follow up with a good toner. Our Rose and Shine is formulated with rose hydrosol and glycerin to hydrate and soothe your skin after a good deep cleanse.
Jade Roller
This little gem has taken the skincare world by storm, claiming to offer a myriad of benefits like sculpting and toning skin, increasing circulation and elasticity, enhancing glow, minimizing the appearance of puffiness and fine lines, detoxifying, allowing for greater penetration of skincare products. And while there is no clinical data documenting the effectiveness of stone rollers, that doesn’t mean they don’t work. (In fact, we use ours all the time.) These tools can also be made of crystal quartz or jade.
To get the maximum benefit, first apply a serum, like our Just Dew It hydrating serum. Then, gently apply the stone, rolling upwards and outwards to counteract the effects of gravity, working the serum into your skin. Always wash your face roller thoroughly with soap and water and dry completely. You can also store it in the fridge to intensify its cooling properties.
Gua Sha Tool
We might as well just call this the facelift tool. These palette shaped stones, now modernly dubbed dubbed gua sha lifting tools, are inspired by an ancient Chinese medicinal practice that dates back centuries. Proper use can have VERY visible effects on the face and its appearance, chiseling out your angles and dramatically lifting facial muscles for an astonishingly youthful appearance.
Gua sha tools are also said to offer many holistic health benefits, like lymphatic drainage, improved circulation, and relief from chronic pain. Studies suggest they may also alleviate migraines.
To use, apply either water or a facial oil to clean skin; you could also spritz a rosewater toner to give the tools some slip. Then fit the grooves of the tool to your face and glide up and outward in short strokes – about 5 times per section. Start with the chin, moving across the jawline. Shift to around the mouth, above the brows, and also pay attention to the neck area… but be sure to move downward there to promote drainage. To reduce puffiness, you can also simply hold the cool stone firmly on any areas of the face that need attention. Use your gua sha tool twice daily and get ready to be amazed by the temporary lift it provides.
Microneedling Roller
We know– needles are not for everybody. But when a 2008 study declared that just four pro-microneedling sessions increased subjects’ collagen by 400%, we had to give this one a go. Microneedling rollers deliver in-home microneedling treatments and are designed to stimulate the production of skin-firming proteins by making micro-punctures in the skin’s surface. The result is plumped, smooth, glowing skin.
Roll over clean skin in a grid pattern; first up and down, then left to right. Following the treatment, skin may be red and tingly, which is normal and means it’s working. Follow up with a nutrient-rich vitamin C serum. Our Nectar of the C is is super gentle, which makes it the perfect follow up to your derma roller. Clean your roller thoroughly with soap and water and run it under alcohol to sanitize. Practice no more than 3x per week and pass completely if you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation.
That’s the skinny on some of our top picks. The best part – these tools can be both effective AND affordable. Are you ready to level up your skincare routine?
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