FasciaBlaster by Ashley Black is an at-home massage tool for myofascial tissue, intended to stimulate blood flow and temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Myofascial tissue, commonly called fascia, is primarily made of collagen. This thin connective tissue provides support and protection for your muscles and bones. Healthy fascia is flexible, but inflammation can make it feel tight and painful. Myofascial massage therapy is a common technique for alleviating pain and improving range of motion.
Some people also believe that weakened fascia contributes to cellulite, a dimpling that occurs when the fibrous bands within skin tighten, causing the fat between them to bulge. However, there’s no research to confirm a connection between fascia and cellulite.
FasciaBlaster reviews on RealSelf are mixed. Some members say they have seen an improvement in their cellulite, while others quit using the tool after severe bruising and an increase in inflammation.
A class-action lawsuit was brought against Ashley Black and her company in 2017 for false advertising and reported injuries. The case was dismissed by a judge in the U.S. District Court in Texas in April 2021, but a second class-action lawsuit filed in 2018 is still pending.
Research funded by the manufacturer shows that fascial manipulation can:
While many independent studies have looked at the effectiveness of myofascial release, most of them examine its use in sports therapy and pain management. Some studies have found that fascial manipulation can improve sleep quality and relieve chronic pain. All studies that found positive results conclude that people should use myofascial release only as a complementary therapy. They also usually advise to do so with a trained massage therapist.
If you’re looking to target cellulite, doctors recommend going with more proven cellulite treatments.
If you’re interested in fascial manipulation, it’s a good idea to consult a licensed massage therapist.
The recommended regimen has three steps.
1. Warm up. You can use a hot shower, a sauna, exercise, or anything else to warm up the tissue.
2. Oil up. Blaster Oil decreases friction between your skin and the FasciaBlaster. Its primary ingredient is sunflower seed oil.
3. Scrub. Use washboard movements to massage your tissue with the tool. The manufacturer’s terms state that you “acknowledge you are responsible for the depth and pressure of use of the FasciaBlaster,” so keep that in mind and stop if you’re worried you may be doing damage.
The most common FasciaBlaster risk is bruising, which RealSelf members say can be severe and prolonged. The manufacturer’s site warns that “bruising is to be expected.”
Ashley Black’s terms say not to use FasciaBlaster products if you:
It also warns against using FasciaBlaster on the carotid artery on the sides of the neck.
The standard FasciaBlaster costs $89, but according to Ashley Black’s website, “You need three tools for your most effective fasciablasting experience.”
Updated June 13, 2023