Our favourite jade rollers and tools for facial massage

You may have noticed the resurgence of jade rollers, gua shas and other face massage rollers over the past few years. While they have made a sudden reappearance, the practice of such facial massage actually date back to an ancient Chinese practice of rolling your face with jade.

But why the resurrection, and do jade rollers and gua shas actually work? Put simply: it depends on what you'd like them to do. In recent times, beauty has shifted it's focus increasingly on the notion of self-care, and the act of facial massage has instant mood-boosting and relaxation benefits. Taking your time for yourself will calm and ground you; particularly if you put your tool in the fridge for an instant cooling treat.

You can expect skincare benefits, too. Katie Brindle, Chinese Medicine practitioner and founder of the Hayo'u Method believes facial massage is the single most effective technique for transforming your skin.

"The technique of gua sha stimulates the dermis to support collagen and elastin production. It'll also release tension, to relax your facial muscles," Katie explained. "Studies have been shown that it will exponentially increase circulation and aid lymphatic flow, releasing congestion and soothing sore eyes and skin. It'll brighten your complexion and leave you with a radiant glow."

She explains that a gua sha works deeper than a jade roller. "It's a much more effective method at boosting microcirculation. The curved points you'll find on a gua sha are used to activate specific acupressure points."

"A jade roller was traditionally used after gua sha to calm the skin after the work had been done," according to Katie.

And don't forget, the can pop your jade roller and gua sha in the fridge. The cool, ceramic tool straight from the fridge, combined with the gentle pressure will help to calm inflammation and irritation. This is particularly good for puffiness in delicate under eye area!

Katie is quick to emphasise the fact that this is a holistic treatment and "there is no wrong way to do it". Her favourite time to practice gua sha is during her morning shower. "The optimum time to gua sha with rose quartz is in the morning, as this enhances the natural energy patterns of the daym" she said.

A top tip Katie recommends is that gua sha is great to use if you have hayfever, sinusitus or hot flushes. "Press and hold the jade over red and itchy eyes or skin. Keep it in the fridge - because our tool is so thick it retains coolness really effectively."

What's also great is the gua sha can be used all over the body. Katie suggests that while using your tools, you should use alongside them "their specially formulated Beauty Oil. It stays on the skin for longer and stops the tool from dragging. Or, use something like Rice Bran oil. Alternatively, you can practice it in the shower using running water. Practice gua sha after cleansing and before any night creams or moisturisers."

Curious of the benefits of facial massage and gua sha and want to try for yourself? See our round up of some of our favourites.