On the tools
For high-octane skin, boost your regimen with these handy additions. By Remy Rippon.
1. GUA SHA
While the internet has recently caught wind of the Instagram-friendly protocol of gua sha, the massage technique has been practised for centuries in China. It involves sweeping a smooth fin-shaped stone – usually jade – along the contours of the face. This is thought to boost circulation, encourage lymphatic drainage and even unravel the stress we hold within the folds of our skin. The technique has found favour among facialists, but at-home skincare buffs can easily replicate the motion in front of the mirror. On a clean complexion, start by applying a moisturiser or serum to ensure the stone glides without pulling. Then gently sweep the stone upwards and outwards, experimenting with the varied contours of the tool. Repeat up to three times per week for best results.
2. MICRO-NEEDLING
We know what you’re thinking: anything that involves self-administered needles is surely a no-go zone. As the name suggests, the process of at-home micro-needling involves tiny pinpricks, administered via a hand-held roller, that ever-so-slightly pierce the outer layer of skin. The benefit? These mini-abrasions actually trigger the skin’s natural healing response. Collagen production and cell turnover kick into high gear, and the tiny holes may also help your skincare formula to penetrate the skin more effectively. But heed the warnings. Always roll in one direction (never back and forth), and if it hurts, you’re overdoing it.
3. STONE ROLLERS
Keeping with the rolling theme, rose quartz or jade rollers have been popular with beauty buffs for their supposed ability to smooth out everything from our wrinkles to breakouts. The dual-ended wands consist of a small stone roller (for the delicate eye and mouth areas) and a larger one for working the cheeks, jawline and neck. While its actual effectiveness on lines and blemishes is not proven, the mechanical rolling action might well stimulate lymphatic drainage. Keep yours in the fridge for a neat cooling effect.
4. MICRO-CURRENT DEVICES
If you prefer your hand-held gadgets electrically charged, than make friends with the micro-current. The idea behind the technology, which is promoted by brands such as NuFace, is that low-level micro-currents (similar to the ones naturally produced by the body) stimulate production of muscle fibres, collagen and elastin. The result? A seemingly more toned and lifted complexion, provided you stick with it. Like exercise, repetition is key, so prepare to dedicate five minutes per day to the practice.
5. FACE BRUSHING
You’ve probably heard of dry body brushing, but face brushing? Yes, it’s also a thing. Advocates of the trend believe the action of dusting a small soft-bristle brush across the face sloughs away dead skin cells and boosts circulation. To brush correctly, start by tracing small circles in an up-and-out motion from the decolletage to your forehead. But be sure to skip brushing on days when your skin is red, inflamed, very dry or breaking out; the action may exacerbate these conditions.