A gem of an idea!

When it comes to skincare, we’re absolutely spoilt for choice — we even have products infused with whale vomit, snail slime, fish eggs, cow dung and bee venom, not to mention semen! But how about indulging in a facial using HD diamonds and a ruby peel?
Wait! What?
Yes, you heard right!

A new trend that originated in the West is about using gemstones to achieve glowing skin. The crystals, diamonds, sapphires and rubies that are normally associated with jewellery are the latest ingredients to be used in skincare products.

The legendary beauty Cleopatra is believed to have bathed in water infused with rose quartz said to have anti-aging and healing properties. Even in modern times, many beauty icons from Victoria Beckham to Kate Hudson have talked of using crystals and gemstones to boost their looks.

“Beauty brands are always on the lookout for products that will break through the clutter of traditional offerings. Skincare products which use precious stones are believed to have healing and calming effects on the skin,” says Dr Himanshu Gandhi, CEO and Co-founder, Mother Sparsh. “Gemstones and crystals have been used in holistic healing for centuries, thanks to their revitalising effect,” he adds.

Dr Kiran Sethi, a celeb skin, aesthetic dermatologist and wellness expert, has a different take on the matter. According to her, gemstone facials are good, but there is hardly any visible enhancement of the skin. “The molecules of all these gems and precious metals are too large to be absorbed by the skin to benefit it in any way. If you have had such a facial, the improvement in your skin is perhaps more the result of the massage you received, or the other ingredients used, rather than the gold, diamond or silver,” the dermatologist says.

She recommends medical treatments like Profhilo, an injectable skin remodelling procedure containing one of the highest concentrations of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) on the market. She says it is especially formulated for people whose skin lacks volume and elasticity.

Hollywood actor Mila Kunis likes to keep her skin looking rejuvenated and fresh with an HD Diamond and Ruby Peel. The facial uses the stones to buff away skin impurities and costs a mind-boggling $8,900. But, does it help the skin to glow?

Dr. Rashmi Shetty, celebrity cosmetic dermatologist, echoes Dr Sethi when she says, “These facials don’t show visible changes. We recommend opting for medical treatments which improve skin tone, texture, hydration and overall radiance. These can help increase firmness and elasticity and promote healthier and softer-looking skin.”

She explains that medical procedures commonly used for facial areas can also be used to rejuvenate the neck, décolleté, arms, knees and hands. “The downtime following treatment is minimal, and you should be able to return to normal ‘light’ daily activities immediately after your procedure,” she adds.

But even if you regard the claim that gemstones enhance beauty as pseudo-science, it’s hard to deny the aesthetic appeal of the trend. “Gemstones have had the reputation of being holistic healers, energy boosters, calming agents and having the ability to balance the mind and body. Considering the fact that gemstones create steady vibrations and even the tiniest of crystals store great amounts of energy, experts assert that they have a profound effect on our bodies,” says Dr Himanshu Gandhi.

“Also, since crystals and gemstones are naturally occurring, they appeal to the new inclination of consumers towards nature-oriented solutions for overall health,” he notes. From inflammation to collagen boosting to purification,  gemstones meet all the aspirations of skincare regimen, according to Dr. Gandhi.
That explains why spas use gemstones in various ways for holistic healing. Jade rollers and GuaSha tools are also made of gemstones because they are believed to have healing and calming effects on the skin.

Diamonds exfoliate the skin in the most natural manner. Using a diamond-infused skincare product removes toxins and purifies the skin. Diamonds also promote cell generation to facilitate an even skin tone. Its effects can best be seen in anti-aging products.

Jade helps eliminate toxins and remove excess fluid. It helps tone the skin, boosts circulation and improves elasticity.
Citrine, the most commonly-used form of quartz, purifies skin, gives it an even tone and imparts a radiance to it.
Amethyst: Firming and collagen-stimulation
Mother of pearl: Cell stimulation
Opal: Anti-stress
Moonstone: Sebum regulation
White quartz: Skin elasticity
Ruby: Lipolytic action
Sapphire: Collagen stimulation
Garnet: Regeneration
                     — Dr. Himanshu Gandhi