Mount Lai Guidebook
Tools vs. Hands - Why Tools Are Worth the Investment
For centuries, facial massage has been valued for its healing and rejuvenating effect on the skin. Although your hands are an easy tool to use for facial massage, our facial tools are specially designed to offer benefits that hands alone cannot achieve. What can your tools do that your hands cannot?
Learn moreThe Tool Care Guide - How to Clean & Maintain Your Mount Lai Facial Tools
Cleaning your facial tools is just as important as removing your make-up before bed. Just as you wash your make-up brushes to remove grime, cleaning your facial tools prevents the buildup of bacteria. After all, taking care of your skin also means to take care of the products you use—they’re just as important.
Learn moreCelebrate Lunar New Year With Us!
In honor of Lunar New Year, we have a lot of exciting promotions! Every order will be receiving a lucky red envelope, while supplies last. We also have a special gift with purchase (can you guess what it is from the above picture?), and a LIMITED EDITION Gold Jade Roller! There is also a very special collaboration with Wing on Wo & Co. that we are releasing on February 5th.* Shop the Lunar New Year Collection. *Article Update: Please note, the Wing on Wo & Co. Gift Set is sold out. What is Lunar New Year? As a brand with Chinese roots and heritage, we look towards Lunar New Year with excitement and immense gratitude as a time to celebrate with our loved ones. If you have never heard of Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year, here is a little bit about what Lunar New Year means in Chinese culture, and how the Mount Lai Team is celebrating. If you celebrate yourself, we would love to know what your yearly traditions are! Lunar New Year has different names (it may also be called the Spring Festival) and is celebrated differently in different Asian cultures. You may have heard it called the Chinese New Year by Chinese people or Chuseok by Korean people. These are just a few examples of many traditions that mark the new year based on the lunar calendar. Instead of tracking the year through solar cycles, the lunar calendar is centered around lunar cycles. This results in the date of Lunar New Year being different each year. This year it will take place on February 12th, 2021. It is a time to gather with family and friends, eat traditional dishes, and watch parades of red and gold. Main Chinese New Year activities include putting up decorations, eating reunion dinner with family on New Year’s Eve, firecrackers and fireworks, and giving red envelopes and other gifts. However, this year’s celebration will look different from previous years. The Zodiac The Chinese Zodiac is a cycle of 12 animals, each representing a different year with different meanings. 2021 marks the Year of the Ox, the second animal in the zodiac. For those born in the Year of the Ox, you are defined as reliable, honest, and hard-working. This year can bring a multitude of success if you bypass frustration and seek patience. The Importance of Food in Chinese New Year Lunar New Year is full of symbolism and luck, especially with its one purpose: to reunite families together. When it comes to Lunar New Year traditions centered around family, one important event is called a ‘reunion dinner’, that involves a feast of both traditional and ‘lucky’ dishes. Many dishes have a symbolism behind them, mostly pertaining to good fortune, wealth, and prosperity, such as dumplings. Dumplings are symbolic in Chinese culture, as its shape resembles ancient Chinese money. Finding dumplings at a ‘reunion dinner’ is said to be lucky, and bring wealth if eaten before the first hour of the Lunar New Year. As food is such a central part of Chinese culture and the celebration of Chinese New Year, we want to highlight the efforts of Send Chinatown Love. Send Chinatown Love is a New York based, volunteer run organization, whose goal is to provide relief to small, immigrant owned, Chinatown businesses in NYC that have been impacted by the effects of COVID-19. Unlike other initiatives, they strive to reach cash-only, pen-and-paper businesses that aren't able to use most gift card, donation, or app delivery solutions. For Lunar New Year, they are hosting a digital neighborhood food crawl to help people celebrate while supporting small businesses in need. If you are based in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queens, please join us in supporting their cause! You can learn more here. Luck & Red Envelopes! In the trend of obtaining luck, there are also various Lunar New Year taboos that one should follow if you’d like to have good fortune in the new year such as wearing red + new clothes. One of our favorite traditions (and something that we are so excited to share with you!) is the giving of red envelopes to bring wealth and prosperity. These bright red and gold gifts contain money, and are meant to be given to family, children, friends, and even co-workers as a gesture of kindness. To celebrate Lunar New Year, each Mount Lai order will come with a red envelope (while supplies last!) as an appreciation for your support in our brand. From the Mount Lai Team, we wish you prosperity, health, and bright new beginnings! Shop Mount Lai's Lunar New Year Collection
Learn moreA Video Guide - How to use a Facial Roller
A step by step guide on how to use a facial roller, one of our favorite facial tools. Learning the proper technique is very important when using this tool to maximize results. SHOP THE DE-PUFFING FACIAL ROLLER Available in Jade, Rose Quartz, Amethyst, and Black Obsidian The facial roller is a Chinese skincare tool that has been used for thousands of years. Perfected throughout the centuries, this facial massager was built to have a de-puffing, soothing effect on the skin. What it does: Besides improving overall health and radiance of the skin, face rolling has a multitude of benefits. Reduces puffiness of the face Promotes lymphatic drainage Relieves facial and jaw tension Boosts circulation to encourage glowing skin
Learn moreThe Science Behind Why Facial Tools ACTUALLY Work
THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE RITUAL Mount Lai tools are designed to work on the lymphatic system, address adhesions in the fascia and melt tension in the facial and jaw muscles, promoting a radiant complexion + combatting fine lines and wrinkles. 01 / What is lymphatic drainage and why is it important? The lymphatic system is a part of the immune system that helps the body get rid of toxins and waste. If the lymphatic system is not functioning well, it can result in fluid build up which may result in puffy skin. Stagnation of the lymphatic system can also lead to an increase in toxins, which can make the skin appear dull or even result in acne breakouts. 02 / The benefits of lymphatic drainage are two-fold. Lymphatic drainage removes toxic and congestive substances from the tissues, which allows greater absorption of nutrients. Besides aiding with lymphatic drainage, gua sha massage stimulates circulation and blood flow. Blood carries oxygen and nutrients to the other cells and the combination of lymphatic drainage + massage allows you to remove toxins from the tissues and absorb greater nutrients to nourish the skin. 03 / Why is using a tool better than using your hands? The beauty of Mount Lai tools is that they work on the skin without pulling. As a result, the tool is able to work on the very surface level of the skin to target the lymph system and fascia that you wouldn’t be able to target with your hands. Tools allow you to work more evenly on the entire face and target pressure points more precisely than you would get with just your hands alone. 04 / Which tools do you recommend for lymphatic drainage? Our favorite tool for lymphatic drainage is the gua sha tool. Pair this with a facial roller to soothe and bring the skin back to harmony after your gua sha practice. For an amazing value, you can purchase these tools together in a gift set as a complete starting kit to facial massage. Not sure if you want an Amethyst Roller or a Jade Roller, a Jade Eye Tool or Rose Quartz Eye Tool, a gua sha tool vs. a gua sha spoon? Mount Lai offers a wide assortment of tools in various different stones. Learn more about which stone suits your needs with our Stone Quiz, and sign up with your email to receive access to our complete guide to the different types of tools we offer! Mount Lai Stones The Stone of Eternal Youth - Balancing The Stone of Love - Soothing The Stone of Tranquility - Calming The Stone of Clarity - Warming Not sure which stone is right for you? take our stone quiz → SHOP GUA SHA TOOLS Our favorite tools for lymphatic drainage and deep tension release. SHOP FACIAL ROLLERS Great for de-puffing and soothing the skin. SHOP EYE & SPECIALTY TOOLS Special tools to treat the eyes and more.
Learn moreHow To Use the Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool - A Video Guide
Start your gua sha routine here. A step by step guide on how to use a gua sha tool, one of our favorite facial tools. Learning the proper technique is very important when using this tool to maximize results. Products featured in this video: Tremella Tonic Activating Essence Mist, Calming Herbal Repair Serum Concentrate Balm, and The Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool or the Vitality Qi White Jade Sculpting Tool. Here 3 of our top tips for results: Consistency is key! Aim to incorporate gua sha into your skincare routine at least once a day, or at minimum 3-4 times a week. Always prep the skin with a skincare product so that the tool glides smoothly instead of tugs. Mount Lai skincare is nutrient rich and pairs perfectly with facial tools. Proper technique is important to achieve results. Hold the tool flat against the skin instead of digging in the edge. How to use: Start with a clean face and prep skin with a facial oil or serum to enhance the glide of the gua sha tool and nourish the skin. We love to pair the gua sha tool with Mount Lai's natural skincare products, which are made from nourishing herbs & plants and designed to pair with our tools. Shop skincare here. Keep the tool flat against the face and begin with the forehead. Scrape in an upwards motion from the eyebrows to the hairline. Move to the cheeks and scrape in an outwards motion starting from the crease of the nose until the ear. Move to the jawline and use the end of the gua sha tool with the two curves. Start from the chin and scrape until the ear. Gently massage the gua sha tool into the ear to release tension. For the under-eye area, very gently scrape the gua sha tool from the inner corner of the eye outwards to the temple. Because the area is so sensitive, it is important to only apply light pressure. SHOP GUA SHA TOOLS Check out our TikTok viral LED Gua Sha Device (get four modalities in one tool). Gua sha has been practiced in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. Perfected throughout the centuries, this amethyst gua sha tool was built to have a firming, lifting effect on the skin. Besides improving overall health and radiance of the skin, regular gua sha practice has a multitude of benefits. - Promotes lymphatic drainage - Reduces puffiness and fluid buildup - Relieves facial and jaw tension - Aids in circulation to give skin a glow - Firms and lifts the face over time
Learn moreA De-Puffing Eye Massage Tutorial - Mount Lai x Glow Recipe
Learn how to use the Mount Lai Eye Massage Tool with Mount Lai's founder Stephanie Zheng! Stephanie pairs her Mount Lai Eye Massage Tool with Glow Recipe's Avocado Melt Eye Sleeping Mask. Designed specifically to treat the delicate skin around the eyes, this tool: Reduces puffiness and can help reduce eye bags Awakens and rejuvenates the eye area Aids in absorption of eye cream or serum into the skin SHOP THE DE-PUFFING EYE MASSAGE TOOL SHOP ALL EYE & SPECIALTY TOOLS
Learn moreHow To Select The Best Facial Tool For Your Skincare Concern
We started with just one product, the De-Puffing Jade Facial Roller, and since then, we’ve slowly expanded our offerings to over 20 other products! With all of these options, we know it can be overwhelming to figure out which tools to add to your skincare routine. Whether you’re dealing with facial puffiness, dullness, jaw tension or even eye bags, there is a tool for your skin concerns. Below is a complete guide to our entire Mount Lai collection to help determine the right tool for you. TO SOOTHE + DE-PUFF The De-Puffing Facial Roller: One of our classics, facial rolling helps reduce puffiness and promote lymphatic drainage. Naturally cooling, it also helps soothe the skin and is great after a day in the sun or for those with sensitive skin. The Mini Facial Roller: The perfect size to take with you on the go. Keep one in your purse, your makeup bag, your gym bag, in your travel suitcase or even next to your desk! The De-Puffing Eye Massage Tool: Intentionally crafted for the delicate eye area, our eye massage tools are incredible for removing excess fluid around the eyes. Great for anyone looking to awaken the eyes or reduce puffiness around the eye area. ---------- TO LIFT + CONTOUR The Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool: Known by beauty editors as “nature’s Botox,” our gua sha tools can help promote lymphatic drainage, relieve facial and jaw tension and firm and lift the face over time. Relieving facial tension can help relax the muscles that contribute to wrinkles. For those looking for the most noticeable results, we recommend adding our Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool to your skincare routine. Our Our Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tools are available in four variations of stones (e.g. jade, rose quartz, amethyst and black obsidian), as well as Stainless Steel. The Acupressure Gua Sha Spoon: With the help of acupressure points, this gua sha tool encourages the gentle release of facial and jaw tension. It was made for precise work and deeper massage in order to sculpt and define facial features, such as the cheeks, and melt away tension at the acupressure points. ---------- TO MASSAGE + ENERGIZE The Jade Textured Roller: Designed to energize and massage the face while also helping products penetrate deeper into the skin. Our Textured Roller transforms skin from dull to glowing and brings the glow back to the skin. The Tension Melting Massager: Deeply kneads the skin and muscles with the help of a two-prong system that contains over 100 facets on each roller. Provides the most luxurious facial massage experience, all while firming and tightening the skin overtime. ---------- SPECIAL TREATS The Eye Mask: For those moments when you want to unwind and relax, our eye masks help soothe and de-puff the delicate eye area. All the benefits of a facial but in the comfort of your own home. The Jade Massaging Gua Sha Comb: A hand-carved jade comb designed for the most luxurious head and scalp massage. ---------- If multiple tools have captured your eye, the good news is that our tools work better together! Some of our favorite pairings include the Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool + the De-Puffing Facial Roller for glowing, radiant skin. To aid with product penetration, we love using the De-Puffing Eye Massage Tool paired with the Jade Textured Roller to encourage our eye creams and serums to absorb into the skin. For targeted tension relief, use our Tension Melting Massager with the Acupressure Gua Sha Spoon. We created our skincare products to be the perfect pairing to any of our facial tools. With three unique products and counting, our skincare products are equally beneficial for the skin and facial massage prep. P.S. Wondering which stone to select? You can find our Stone Guide here. Shop Our Collection
Learn moreHow to Incorporate Traditional Chinese Medicine Into Your Skincare Routine With Mount Lai
Interested in incorporating the wisdom of Traditional Chinese rituals into your beauty routine for youthful, radiant skin? To learn how to incorporate centuries-old beauty tools, and healing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) botanicals like goji berry in your skincare, this guide is for you. When do you use your jade roller or gua sha tool in your routine? Where do you fit Calming Herbal Repair in your daily ritual compared to Plant Root Remedy? We’ll walk you through the order of a comprehensive skincare routine based around TCM. Before we get started, it’s important to note that there’s no need to follow every step in this routine! Do what works for you. Step One: Cleanse The Skin Begin your routine with cleansed skin. For the nighttime, we recommend double-cleansing your skin to ensure that make-up, sunscreen, dirt and excess oil is fully removed. Step Two: Toner Toning the skin helps make sure every last bit of dirt and excess oil are removed while still providing hydration and gentle exfoliation. Step Three: Essence Essences help the rest of your skincare products penetrate deeper into your skin and work more effectively. Use our Tremella Tonic Activating Essence Mist to supercharge your routine with plumping and hydrating TCM superfoods, hyaluronic acid and fermented black tea. Step Four: Serum As with many serums, the purpose of Calming Herbal Repair Serum Concentrate Balm is that it is the potent and powerful workhorse of the skincare routine, helping to maximize and deliver results. Calming Herbal Repair also helps prep your skin to ensure that the facial tools glide instead of pulling on the skin. It enhances the glide of your facial tools for fluid movements while nourishing your skin with nutrient-rich plant oils, butters and herbs. Step Five: Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool Built to have a firming, lifting effect on the skin, our Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool helps relieve facial and jaw tension and promotes lymphatic drainage. This tool is available in four stone variations (Jade, Rose Quartz, Amethyst, Black Obsidian) as well as Stainless Steel. To promote lymphatic drainage on the scalp, use our Jade Massaging Gua Sha Comb. Step Six: Acupressure Gua Sha Spoon The Acupressure Gua Sha Spoon is a specialized gua sha tool with many benefits. Through targeting acupressure points with precision and accuracy with its rounded point, the Acupressure Gua Sha Spoon encourages the gentle release of facial and jaw tension. Its rounded spoon side offers a more contoured massage and different facial massage feel than the classic heart shaped gua sha tool, to deeply sculpt and define facial features. Step Seven: Tension Melting Massager A reviving beauty roller that deeply kneads the skin and muscles, all while defining the facial features. Use our Tension Melting Massager on the face, neck and body to get the most of your facial massage. We especially love this easy to use tool to relieve TMJ pain. Step Eight: Jade Textured Massaging Roller The Jade Textured Roller is designed to energize + massage the face and bring the glow back to the skin. It transforms skin from dull to glowing while still being natural, non-invasive and gentle enough that it works even for those with sensitive skin. Step Nine: De-Puffing Facial Roller The De-Puffing Facial Roller brings the skin back to harmony with its de-puffing and soothing properties. For on-the-go facial massage, our Mini De-Puffing Facial Roller is the perfect travel companion. Step Ten: Eye Cream Use your ring finger to gently apply eye cream to the eye area. The eye area also needs to be prepped for facial massage, especially because it is the most delicate part of the skin. (e.g. wrinkles, dark circles, etc.) Step Eleven: De-Puffing Eye Massage Tool Inspired by Chinese acupressure points and designed specifically to treat the delicate skin around the eyes, the De-Puffing Eye Massage Tool helps reduce puffiness, awaken the eye area and aid in the absorption of eye cream into the skin. Step Twelve: Eye Mask Our Eye Mask provides all the benefits of a facial, all in the comfort of your own home. A luxurious treat for the eye area, perfect for soothing and de-puffing. Step Thirteen: Moisturizer Keep the skin refreshed, moisturized and renewed by using a moisturizer. Moisturizing supports your oil glands, and keeps your skin barrier healthy. Step Fourteen: Facial Oil As a final step, seal it all in with a nourishing and balancing facial oil. Choose Plant Root Remedy Balancing Facial Oil to support and protect the skin barrier, or Brightening Berry Vitamin C Oil to even skin tone and firm the skin. We love to incorporate both of these facial oils into our skincare routine by using Plant Root Remedy for evening use, and Brightening Berry for the morning following with an SPF to provide the skin extra protection. Note: Facial tools can also be used as the last step of your routine after applying a facial oil. As long as the skin is prepped with skincare, you can use your facial tools at any step of your routine. Always personalize and cater your routine to your skin’s needs! There is no right or wrong way to organize your routine, so feel free to switch up the order based on your own personal preferences. If you have more time, incorporate more steps. If you are short on time, choose which steps make the most impact on you. We believe that skincare is self care, so simply carving out time to care for your skin is a gift to yourself. Our goal is to provide you with every day rituals that act as a breath of calmness in your busy life. Shop the Mount Lai Collection
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