Ancient Rituals for Modern Beauty

By Imaan Davids

We are seeing more and more of a return to the adoption of ancient beauty traditions in modern skincare, with the secrets of Cleopatra and Nefertiti intersecting with new-age therapies for natural beauty in 2023.

While traditional Eastern practices in particular once fell into the realm of the purely esoteric, today’s beauty and wellness industries are recognising their value in a trend that shows no signs of slowing.

Dry brushing, jade rollers, gua sha, cupping, acupuncture, and cold therapy can be seen in many a modern celebrity’s daily grooming regime.

In line with the therapeutic nature of these practices, we are also seeing a movement towards a more mindful approach to skincare, beauty, and wellbeing in general. Today, it’s all about the small changes that can make a big difference - not just in how we look, but in how we feel.

But is it just about feeling pampered, or are there real results to gain from the effort?

Many say that it’s at least worth a shot. If the world’s elite have been including them in their beauty routines since the early 17th century, there must be something to be gained, right?

The benefits of using a jade roller or gua sha are said to include drainage - which involves encouraging the lymphatic system’s natural detoxification process - and brighteningwhich involves increasing circulation and blood flow beneath the skin, resulting in a visible glow. With the lymph system gently stimulated by the rolling or massaging motion, excess fluid can be drained away, resulting in reduced puffiness and - some even report - defined contours. Jade also possesses cooling and calming properties.

The effects of dry brushing can be seen both immediately and long-term: it feels great and leaves you feeling invigorated and refreshed, as well as contributing to silky-smooth, exfoliated skin after regular use over time. Dry brushing is one of those things that feels just as good when you do it yourself as when someone does it for you, and it’s super simple to incorporate into a daily routine. Experts believe that dry brushing in the morning, rather than before bed, has energising properties. Some people use the brush on its own, while others coat it in body oil before using it.

Top Tip

The best practice for dry brushing is to begin at your feet and work your way up to your heart. Similarly, when working on your arms, begin at the hands and work your way up. Use firm, small upward strokes or a circular motion. Work your way clockwise around the stomach. Exfoliation should never be harsh; avoid pressing too hard or using a stiff brush. Allow three to five minutes for dry brushing.

Top Tip

When incorporating gua sha or jade rolling into your skincare routine, remember to cleanse both your skin and the device thoroughly before each use. Work in an upward motion with gentle pressure. Roll away from your nose in all directions, using it as the centre point. Imagine that you are gently rolling all the toxic build-up outward and downwards, eventually rolling outward along your jaw and down the channel that runs down your neck from your ear.

PLANT-BASED skincare at it’s best! Nourish, soothe and enrich your skin naturally.

Litchi & Titch’s passion and commitment to inclusive, cruelty-free, locally-made, vegan and sustainably produced products drives a purposeful approach to skincare.