If that viral video of a bug-infested makeup sponge [1] wasn't reason enough to clean your brushes [2] regularly, consider this: the tools that touch your face every day collect bacteria (and apparently, even bugs [3]) along with excess product, putting a flawless application in jeopardy and your skin at risk of a breakout [4] (or worse). Skincare devices like facial rollers [5] are no exception.
If you're an avid follower of Asian skincare practices [6], your morning routine likely includes a quick face massage with a roller [7] to depuff the aftermath of the weekend. But as you roll through the week — pun intended — have you ever thought to yourself, "I should probably wash that," and then stick your facial roller back on the shelf next to the other brushes you keep meaning to wash? The answer is probably yes.
The head(s) of your facial roller are made from semiprecious stones, like jade [8] or quartz [9], that are fragile like the fine hairs of a makeup brush. Don't overlook the importance of caring for it like you would your favourite foundation brush. The good news? It's actually much easier than you'd think.
Ahead, two skincare experts breakdown how to care for your facial roller.
How Do I Clean My Facial Roller?
To clean your facial roller, dermatologist Lamees Hamdan, CEO and founder of the skincare brand Shiffa, recommends wiping the stone clean with a damp cloth or soft towel, but be gentle and "never wipe with very hot water or soak it in water." For a deeper clean, use a gentle soap or cleanser to wipe away product buildup and kill bacteria. To dry, Dr. Hamdan suggests a soft, absorbent cloth. "It's good to leave it on a cloth or towel for a little after cleaning to make sure it's completely dry before putting it away."
If your roller is literally squeaky clean, Mount Lai suggests [10] adding a few drops of your favourite face oil [11] at the joints on the head.
How Often Should I Clean My Facial Roller?
Dr. Hamdan recommends wiping down your facial roller with a clean cloth or towel after every use. This is especially important if you have a skin issue like acne. And make sure to include your roller the next time you wash your makeup brushes. Dr. Hamdan suggests you rinse it in water for a deeper cleanse every two weeks.
How Do I Store My Facial Roller?
"You can pop it into the fridge to cool it," celebrity facialist Joanna Vargas said. "It will help to depuff and increase circulation."
If you don't have a skincare fridge [12] in your bathroom and you're too lazy to walk to the kitchen (no shame), the medicine cabinet will also do. "I personally don't place my roller in the fridge [because] it is a detour to get it every day," Dr. Hamdan said. Plus, "because of the nature of the jade stone and because the type of jade used in my [Shiffa] jade facial massage roller, it is always cool to the touch."
Just be sure to store your roller in a dry area where it won't fall onto the tile floor. "Jade is a brittle stone so it does tend to shatter quickly if dropped," Dr. Hamdan said. As is quartz, so be careful. Rest it on a soft cloth or keep it in the original box.