Do face rollers work? We asked a dermatologist.

When scrolling through your social media feed, chances are you’ll come across an influencer using a face roller as part of their daily skincare routine. These rollers are praised for their potential to reduce puffiness, enhance circulation, and offer anti-aging benefits. Available for around $20 at your local drug store, face rollers have become a trendy beauty tool.

Dr. Megha Trivedi, a dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, explains that while face rollers are heavily promoted on social media, they have a long history rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. Various materials are used to make these rollers, with jade being a popular choice due to its healing properties in Chinese culture. Rose quartz and stainless steel rollers are also common.

What is a face roller, and how should they be used? 

A face roller consists of a handle attached to smooth, rolling stones designed to glide across the skin. With their origins in Chinese medicine, jade rollers are particularly popular, as jade has been used for healing in China for centuries. However, rose quartz and stainless steel rollers are also widely used.

To use a face roller effectively, apply light pressure and roll the stones gently in an outward motion across your face. Avoid harsh back-and-forth movements that can irritate the skin. A five to ten-minute session once or twice a day is sufficient, according to Trivedi.

Some people refrigerate their face rollers to cool the stones, which can help reduce inflammation. Some also use the rollers to apply skincare products, believing that it enhances absorption. However, Trivedi cautions that this claim is not well-supported.

Do face rollers actually work? 

In terms of efficacy, Trivedi explains that face rollers offer only superficial benefits. While they may temporarily improve blood flow and reduce puffiness, there are no long-term anti-aging effects supported by scientific literature. The rolling motion can enhance circulation and lymphatic drainage, similar to a massage, but it won’t provide significant anti-aging results.

Individuals with sensitive skin, eczema, rosacea, or acne should avoid using face rollers to prevent skin irritation or damage. Additionally, caution is advised when using face rollers with exfoliating chemicals like tretinoin or Vitamin C, as these can increase skin sensitivity.

It’s crucial to keep your face roller clean by thoroughly sanitizing it before and after each use to prevent the spread of bacteria. While face rollers may not offer dramatic transformations, incorporating them into your skincare routine can be beneficial for relaxation and stress reduction.

Ultimately, Trivedi suggests that while face rollers may not deliver miraculous results, they can still be a soothing addition to a skincare regimen. The act of facial massage, whether with a roller or by hand, can promote a sense of well-being and relaxation.