Our generation has been a little obsessed with crystals the past few years. Crystals are known for their healing energy and have been used since ancient times. A current beauty trend, however, has us full-on sprinting past the line of “extra” by literally rubbing these little, shiny rocks all over our faces. A number of skincare products, like lotions and cleansers, are also beginning to label different crystals in their ingredients.
This practice, like the use of crystals themselves, is not new. In 7th century China, flat jade stones were used to rub all over the skin and there’s evidence other crystals were used as skincare in the Middle Ages and ancient India.
Nausheen Qureshi, the biochemist who founded skincare brand Elequra, told Refinery 29, “These stones are useful to help the ingredients of creams and moisturizers to be absorbed into the face and neck.” With proper usage, the routine is supposed to improve skin tone and elasticity, tighten pores, reduce wrinkles and increase collagen, according to Karina Sulzer, spokesperson for Skin Gym. There are rollers made with just about any crystal and each have different benefits.
- Amethyst
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Amethyst targets acne-prone skin with its anti-inflammatory properties and is known to reduce stress.
- Jade
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Jade helps renew skin cells which is great for tightening the skin and reducing wrinkles, making skin supple and young. It also calms irritated skin and increases blood circulation, creating a natural glow.
- Rose quartz
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Rose quartz is used to rid the skin of toxins as well as lifting loose skin. It’s best used for detoxing and flushing out any negativity.
- Clear quartz
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Clear quartz is full of silica, a mineral our skin loves.