Jade Rollers: What They Are and How They Work

Recently, our Instagram feeds have been flooded with everyone from celebrities to influencers to friends massaging their faces with jade rollers. If you’ve ever wondered exactly why everyone seems to be taken with the fancy tool — and, more importantly, what it actually does for your skin — don’t worry, you’re not alone.

As it turns out, Lili Reinhart is right there with you. The Riverdale actor is already known for openly sharing her acne journey with her millions of fans, but she recently shared on her Instagram Story that she had yet to test out the trendy skin-care tool. On Monday, she posted a photo of the devices to Instagram along with a poll asking, “What’s the consensus on jade rolling?” While 69% of her followers gave the practice a hard “yes,” we decided to dig a little deeper and consult the pros about what jade rolling is, and why it might be worth adding one to your beauty routine. You're welcome, Lili.

What exactly is a jade roller?

"A jade roller is a stone that looks like a small paint roller and is used to massage the skin,” says New York City dermatologist Michele Farber of Schweiger Dermatology Group. "It helps with lymphatic drainage, blood circulation, and used along with products to help absorption.”

The practice of jade rolling comes from ancient Chinese beauty rituals, and jade stones are believed by some to have mystical healing properties. In addition to jade, this tool also comes in a rose quartz version, which basically provides the same experience but offers a different pop of color to your #shelfies. Lili isn’t the only celeb who seemingly has become fascinated with jade rollers. Kim Kardashian, Victoria Beckham, and Alicia Keys are reportedly fans, complementing their beauty routines with a regular jade roller facial massages.

What's the point of using a jade roller?

"It’s great for puffiness around the eyes,” says Dr. Farber, who notes that it can help your skin-care products absorb better as part of your evening routine. "Understand [that] it’s not a magic cure for acne or other skin conditions, but it can certainly leave your skin feeling good by improving drainage and getting you into a routine.”

If you want to try jade rolling for yourself, Dr. Farber notes the importance of making sure to use the roller on clean skin to avoid dirt and bacteria buildup — which can lead to breakouts. "It’s best to roll away from the nose as a central point,” says Dr. Farber, who adds that "putting it in the fridge for cooling effect can help with puffiness.”

What can I expect to see, in terms of results?

Having become a full-on jade-roller devotee myself over the past few months, I can attest to the fact that it really is as amazing as the Internet makes it look. Not only does it feel great — especially when I try that handy refrigerator hack that Dr. Farber mentioned — but it helps my skin look instantly more awake after I use it with my favorite serum as part of my night-time skin-care routine. Most evenings, I find myself lying mindlessly in bed, rolling it over my face for 45 minutes at a time, and, ironically, streaming episodes of Riverdale. If that isn't modern luxury, I don't know what is.

Shop Now: Herbivore Jade Roller, $30, available at Sephora.

Shop Now: Elera 2-piece Jade Roller Facial Massager, $10.59, available at Amazon

Shop Now: Skin Gym Jade Facial Roller, $32, available at Revolve

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