Until recently, the only way to get salon-quality skincare procedures was by making an appointment at a salon and potentially dropping hundreds of dollars. Since many people are spending more time at home since the COVID-19 pandemic, at-home skincare has quickly become a wildly popular ritual—and for many, somewhat of a hobby (I am very guilty of this)!  

As a beauty blogger, I’ve tried almost all of the skincare tools on the market—from the essential ones to the crazy high-tech ones. After years of experimentation, I’ve narrowed my list of absolutely essential skincare tools down to just 4 tools. Whether you are looking for a quick refresh, long-term anti-aging solutions, or something else, there is a tool out there for you. And, the best part is that most of these tools only add a few minutes to your daily routine (I usually use all 4 of these tools in the time it takes my coffee to brew in the morning)! 

Below, I’ll provide a description of the tools, the benefits, and how to use them in your daily skincare routine for healthy, glowing skin!  

Essential Skincare Tools & How To Use Them

Inspired by old Chinese medicine, facial rollers are tools made up of one or more smooth jade or rose quartz stones. The stones each have their own natural benefits and energies, similar to crystals. The jade roller balances out negative energy, soothes and destresses, while the rose quartz roller encourages an open heart for self-care, healing and peace. There are now many other facial roller stones available, and skincare tool company, Mount Lai even offers a quiz to determine the best stone for you! 

When rolled across the skin of your face and neck (specifically under the eyes, cheeks, jawbone, neck and forehead) they give a gentle lymphatic massage, along with a multitude of other benefits, including stress relief, lymphatic drainage, reduction of puffiness, and more. 

Pro Tips: 

• Store your jade roller or rose quartz roller in the freezer or a skincare fridge. The cool stone will sooth and de-puff skin when used cold—this is especially helpful for dark circles and undereye bags! 
• Use your derma roller while (and after) wearing a sheet mask on your face to assist in product absorption. 
• For lymphatic drainage, roll your jade roller or rose quartz roller from underneath your ear down your neck. Applying a facial oil or essential oils before doing this will help with ease of the massage. 
• Use your derma roller after applying skincare products to assist in absorption. 

Pro Tips:  

• Use a dry brush on your skin before applying skincare products like moisturizer. The exfoliation will encourage better absorption. 
• Only use a dry brush on completely dry skin. Moisture can damage your brush. 
• Use your dry brush in circular motions for the best results. 

Pro Tips: 

• Store your Gua Sha in the freezer or a skincare fridge. The cool stone will soothe and de-puff skin when used cold. 
• Gua Sha can be done every day for visible lifting and firming effects over time. 
• Be sure to apply a facial oil or essential oils before using a Gua Sha in order to avoid pulling (this can cause wrinkles!) or damaging your skin. 
• Check out this video from Mount Lai on the different directions to use your Gua Sha on your face. 

Pro Tips:  

• Keep your cleansing brush in the shower for quick, daily use with your favorite cleanser. 
• Apply your cleanser directly to your face rather than to the brush to get the most out of the product. 
• Use your cleansing brush in a gentle, circular motion. This will provide the deepest penetration of the product while simultaneously promoting circulation.  

Even if you’re a beginner and start with just one of these tools, you are already on your way to healthier, beautiful skin in just minutes! You glow, girl!