This facial-massage tool changes everything

In case you haven’t noticed, facial massage is having a major moment. I’ve dabbled a bit with a jade gua sha stone I received with a new product launch package a few months ago, but I was never wowed enough to make it a regular part of my routine. That was until I tried Pause Well-Aging’s Fascia Stimulating Tool—and now I’m a face-massage addict.

Truth be told, I was instantly drawn to this because it says “FDA-cleared Class 1 medical device” no less than five times between the box and enclosed instructions—which means this is more than a mere feel-good facial tool. I was also utterly shocked at what happened when I used it. After slathering on moisturizer, I started gliding the heavy silver tool along my facial contours and neck as the illustrated directions recommended. I was totally taken aback by the “crunching” sensation and sound—as well as how red my face was afterwards. Although it didn’t hurt, I saw and felt an immediate tightening, and I was in love after my very first use.

Here’s how it works… First, the redness is due to a surge in circulation, and more blood flow means more nutrients for your skin while helping to send toxins and accumulated fluid on their way. The “crunching” is caused by the release of muscle tension (similar to when knots are kneaded when you get a body massage) and the pressure the tool places on the facial fascia—which is the layer of connective tissue that lies between the skin and underlying muscle over the entire body. Fascia is comprised primarily of collagen and elastin, so massaging this tissue promotes the production of more—which helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles while boosting skin tautness.

I’m still working on my massage skills, especially around my eyes and lips, but I have to say that I kind of feel like my face actually looks a little different since I started using it. Is it possible my nasolabial folds are less visible? Could my jawline really be more defined? Call me crazy, but I’m going to say yes.

Incorporating this tool into my skincare regimen also made me realize that I’ve been focusing solely on my skin’s surface, whether by exfoliating or using hydrating ingredients to plump up my skin. I’ve totally been neglecting the layers below my actual skin—and never imagined the profound impact that five minutes of special attention each day could make. I’m definitely not abandoning my surface-level efforts to minimize spots, pores and rough texture, but the combination of targeting both layers has shown to be pretty major.

A few words to the wise, if you get injectables (whether Botox or filler), you should avoid fascial massage for two weeks afterwards. If you’re due for injectables, I’d definitely give this a whirl before making an appointment because you might this tool does the trick (for a fraction of the price). And if you don’t get injectables—but want to see significant improvement in the youthfulness of your face—this tool will be a game-changer for you, too.