I can perfectly identify the moment when I understood deep in my soul that skincare could be smart and efficient, worthy of being deemed technology. Deep in my initiation into Korean skincare and developing a serious sheet mask habit, I’d reconciled myself to the 15-20, sometimes 60, minute-long process of reclining for maximum serum absorption and minimal drippage. Then I discovered Patchology’s ILLUMINATE, a 5 Minute Face Sheet Mask. In a third of the time required by others, my complexion was so bright and hydrated, as close to post-facial as I could reproduce at home, all while prepping and downing a green smoothie, thanks to a special cellulose-based mask material.
When I stumbled across Patchology’s latest offering, Roll Model, a collection of lip gloss-sized 2-in-1 rollers, I nodded in acknowledgment of the clever and ultra-convenient serum delivery method for the bane of my existence: the very sensitive, ultra-fragile, dim hollows of my orbital bone, the under-eye area. In dire need of delivering the gentlest lymphatic massage, hydration, and brightening, I’m always in search of a multi-task solution. Voilà! Patchology’s Roll Model collection covers all the bases, with 3 formulas for smoothing, moisturizing, and brightening, to complement their array of under-eye gel masks.
The Smoothing Roller is the most impressive and beguiling of all, instead of a typical metal or plastic roller, it’s a perfect sphere of purple jade, a mini gua sha for on-the-go use. In addition to de-puffing like a charm, infused with peptides, niacinamide, and bakuchiol (a gentle plant-based retinol alternative) its anti-aging bonafides are legit. The Brightening Roller, also made of jade, this time the more traditional green version, delivers the staple of all illuminating serums Vitamin C, sourced from Kiwi and grapefruit, and pearly minerals to diffuse the excess pigment and discoloration that can dampen anyone’s day. To complete the trio, the Moisturizing Roller made of rose quartz keeps the gua shu vibes bopping. With none other than the moisturizing master hyaluronic acid as the base for mango seed extract, the parched hollows of my eyes were instantly quenched. I even tried it on my smile lines and lip border for a burst of hydration.
A modest person would be inclined to stick to one serum at a time, but I am not that kinda girl. I layered all three, with generous applications of the smoothing, brightening, and moisturizing formulations in that order.The light, yet nourishing, serums absorbed without stickiness, even layered under eye cream and concealer. Not a bit of cakiness in sight. The only dilemma – for a girl whose bags, desks, and cabinets are loaded with products and gadgets, a study in chaos not worthy of a shelfie – which Patchology Roller to use when and where?
During this punishingly hot summer, I end my nights and start my mornings with the Smoothing roller, to erase evidence of binging “Physical” Season 2 into the wee hours. The Brightening Roller is used to prep my under-eye area for moisturizer and concealer. I keep the Moisturizing Roll Model on my person at all times, for whenever I need a lift, even over makeup, especially at the 3pm slump, after a long day of meetings, annoying people, and devices on the fritz. Don’t I deserve a pat on the back for such modesty or organization? Alright, you caught me… not true. Full disclosure, always in need of smoothing, brightening, and hydration, I keep all three rollers in my bag. Given the convenient, non-bulky packaging and primo formulations, and at just $22 a pop, Patchology’s Roll Models are the smartest beauty find of the summer.
