Why we're all obsessed with jade rollers
For the last year the beauty enthusiasts amongst us have been seemingly as excited by cutting edge innovations in skincare (drone technology, we’re ready for you) as the use of ancient facial tools, used in line with time honoured traditions.
We’re talking about traditional Chinese derma rollers made of jade – or other gemstones like rose quartz – which have seen a surge in popularity of late, despite the beauty device market being down overall. But handheld jade rollers are not just a huge hit with millennials because of their low price tags.
Why the resurgence?
Their new-found popularity could be explained in multiple ways. Given that researchers examining data from Pinterest’s 48 million beauty lovers reported that ‘derma roller’ pins were saved a major 345% more in 2017, there’s no denying the fact that they look good on social media. Plus, of course, when influencers share their use of the tool on Instagram or YouTube, followers will click-to-buy and join the club (WWD report that an Amazon jade roller was influencer Marianna Hewitt’s top-selling affiliate-linked product in 2017, according to Reward Style who monetises her content).
A post shared by Marianna Hewitt (@marianna_hewitt) on Jan 27, 2018 at 12:51pm PST
Then there’s the fact that the devices, used for facial massage, are said to help sculpt the features – by way of encouraging drainage and toning slackening muscles – which feeds our collective compulsion to contour. And, well, we’d rather cut cheekbones without make-up, if we can.
The recent wellness movement marrying skincare with self-care may also play a part in its resurgence. As we’re all buying into crystal-infused beauty, it makes sense to incorporate tools made of gemstones that not only grant us time out for a ritualistic daily facial, but made of materials revered for their restorative properties, benefit our skin in multiple ways, too.
It could just be that we’ve returned to an old school anti-ageing strategy that truly works. The mechanism is basic (think paint roller) and the premise (of massage) is traditional, but sometimes simple really is best.
