Skincare rituals for the face

The importance of daily routines and practices in maintaining your wellness cannot be understated. There are so many possibilities to turn skincare routines into self-care rituals, taking intentional moments to indulge yourself and unwind, both in the morning and at night.

In this blog, we’ll look at some skincare tools and techniques that can nurture your skin, your body and your mind.

Gua Sha

Puffiness in the face and jaw is an extremely common issue, especially in the morning, and can stem from any number of issues, including fluid retention, stress, lack of sleep or a high carb diet. Facial massages and tools to help beat the bloat have been growing in popularity as of late, most notably gua sha techniques. 

From ancient Chinese medicine, gua sha is the technique of using a flat tool, usually a smooth jade stone, to relieve tension and improve circulation. In addition to its anti-inflammatory benefits, gua sha can also help boost your immune system and relieve respiratory stresses and ailments. 

After washing your face and hands with cool water, apply your favourite facial oil or serum (we love using our Illuminating Avocado Face Oil for some extra glow) and gently press the gua sha tool flat against your skin and move it in upward motions.

To learn more, check out this video from practitioner Sandra Lanshin Chiu, L.Ac., an acupuncturist and herbalist who specializes in treating the skin using traditional Chinese medicine.

When practising gua sha or other related techniques from ancient Chinese medicine, it is important to understand the cultural significance of the practice – purchase your tools from AAPI-owned brands when possible. New York Magazine compiled great resources to support AAPI-owned business in your skincare routine. 

Jade rollers

Similar to the gua sha tool, jade rollers are a central component of Chinese medicine and skincare intended to improve circulation and product absorption in the face. However, suppose you’re on the move or don’t have as much time for your skincare as you would like. In that case, jade rollers are a quicker alternative to a full gua sha facial massage. They can be used morning or evening to help reduce puffiness and dark circles and get the most out of your skin products.

Ingredient-focused rituals

Though cosmetic, there is a science behind skincare, and like everything else we put in and on our body, ingredients matter. It's crucial to integrate products with clean, effective ingredients into your regular skincare routine. 

For example, our skin uses fatty acids to produce lipids, which keep the skin hydrated and nourished. That’s why we formulate our Organic Ultra Hydrating Face Moisturiser and our Restorative Organic Eye Serum with argan oil, a key fatty acid that supports youthful, glowing skin. 

Essential oils and botanicals

If you have sensitive, easily irritated skin, you’re probably used to steering clear of any facial product with artificial fragrance. However, a handful of essential oils with natural botanical fragrances and properties can support healthy, glowing skin. Rosehip, avocado, lavender, frankincense, tea tree and chamomile are all great additions to your skincare routine, with the added benefit of aromatherapy.

Not all essential oils are created equal, however, and some can be irritating and damaging to your skin, so do your research before applying! If you want to explore natural products for the skin, check out our Illuminating Avocado Face Oil or our Revitalising + Hydrating Facial Toner Mist to nurture your complexion.  

Resources:

1. https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-gua-sha-tool-from-aapi-businesses.html
2. http://en.chinaculture.org/info/2013-04/25/content_456628.htm