It seems there are a limitless number of facial tools in the market, but it’s hard to know where to start or which one(or ones!) would be right for you and your individual beauty needs. While most of the following recommendations are great additions to a routine for any skin type, tone, or age, I’ll be breaking them down and making suggestions on which one you should use based on your skin’s concerns. Sound good? Let's get right to it!
- Gua Sha - For the longest time, I’ve always wondered about what this tool does and how to use it, but never actually took the time to do the research or experiment with using one until last year. Derived from traditional Chinese medicine, “Gua” means scrape and “Sha’ means sand, and the use of this tool involves scraping the flat jade, or sometimes rose quartz, stone over the skin in upward motions to help promote tissue drainage and soothe locked up muscles. Use of this tool claims a variety of benefits, including relief from migraines and neck pains, as well as boost circulation and encourage lymphatic drainage to eliminate bloat. This tool is great for skin that feels dull and lackluster, as well as those who want to eliminate puffiness and fine lines. Plus, it helps any beauty oils you use absorb better into the skin! Rose Quartz Gua Sha $18 is available at www.herbivorebotanicals.com
- T Bar - These vibrating tools are a must to any skincare routine! The thing I love most about this tool is that the results are visible almost immediately, since the skin gets lifted and toned with each vibration. Ideal for all skin tones, types, and ages, but especially beneficial for mature skin types, this tool mimics the effects of getting a facial massage, and instantly relaxes the facial muscles to release any tension, as well as targets loss of firmness and elasticity. You can use this all over the face as well as to help with tech neck and sagging in the chin area...it’s like a quick and pain-free mini facelift! Gold Sculpting Bar $195 is available at www.jilliandempsey.com
- Cooling Facial Globes - Made with glass containing cool liquid, the tools are great for those with redness or inflammation in the skin. Created for an ice cold facial massage, it’s also great for those with enlarged pores and cystic acne. I love sticking these in the freezer for at least one full day and then using them on my eyes after a late night to help depuff and to help me look more awake...and that’s BEFORE I have my coffee, too! Fraîcheur Ice Globes Cooling Facial Collection $50 is available at www.urbanoutfitters.com