Are you tired of spending a fortune on skincare products that don’t seem to work? Well, there’s a new technique that’s been gaining popularity among influencers, and it’s called Gua Sha! This ancient massage technique, originating in Chinese healing medicine, has been shown to promote circulation and enhance the natural radiance of the skin, resulting in a more youthful and glowing complexion.
If you’re skeptical about trying something new, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve put together a list of recommended tools and products that work best for your skin, so you can experience the benefits of Gua Sha without breaking the bank. Don’t let your skincare routine fall short – try Gua Sha today and see the difference for yourself!
What is a Gua Sha massage?
Gua Sha is an alternative therapy rooted in ancient Chinese healing techniques. It involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged massage tool to stimulate microcirculation and increase blood flow. The therapy aims to address stagnant energy (chi) in the body, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Gua sha is commonly applied on the back, buttocks, neck, arms, and legs, and has been found to have benefits for conditions such as arthritis, migraine headaches, neck pain, and perimenopausal syndrome.
When applied on the face, gua sha has been proven to relieve tension, reduce puffiness, inflammation, and even sinus pressure. Different techniques can be used for different effects, but there are plenty of online tutorials that are easy to follow and have been proven to work wonders.
One of the best things about gua sha is that you can pair it with your favorite face serums and oils, which enhances the effect of the massage and the products of your choice.
It’s important to note that gua sha is generally considered safe, but it may cause skin bruising and minor bleeding due to the scraping action. Until you are sure of what you’re doing, go easy with it and learn just the right amount of pressure you need to apply. It is also advised to avoid gua sha if you have had recent surgery, are on blood thinners, or have clotting disorders. The safest bet for an effective gua sha massage is to book a session with a licensed acupuncturist or Chinese medicine practitioner. However, learning gua sha is fairly simple and can be just as effective when done at home.
Gua Sha techniques
Licensed professionals are experts in performing Gua Sha, and their techniques are unparalleled. However, you don’t have to be a professional to benefit from this practice. If you’re interested in learning how to perform facial Gua Sha massage, TikTok tutorials can be a helpful resource. These tutorials use visual mediums to demonstrate the techniques and help you easily master the massage.
@allyoucanface Here is how to use a #guasha correctly ✨ #guashatutorial #guashafacial #guashamassage #allyoucanface ♬ La Vie En Rose - Emily Watts
@yurileeeee I’m not a specialist in lymphatic drainage, I’ve seen this technique on TikTok, and internet how to open lymphatic nodes. I’ve recently started doing it, but i only do it when I have extra time🥰 #guasha #lymphaticdrainage #slimmerface #stayyoung #lookyounger #massage ♬ original sound - Skinfluencer
How long does it take to see results from Gua Sha?
Aching to see instant results? If so, Gua Sha might be the solution you need! However, it’s important to keep in mind that for this technique to work effectively, you will need to perform one or two massages daily, with each session lasting about three to five minutes.
By sticking to this routine, you will see visible results in about a week, which is faster than you would expect from using serums or creams. In addition to the visible results, regularly practicing Gua Sha massages can also provide many health benefits, such as boosting your immune system, improving blood circulation, and even helping with digestive system problems.
Although it might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, this technique has been around for about 700 years and has been proven to be effective over time.
What are the tools used for Gua Sha?
There’s no Gua Sha massage without the right tools, and the small stone thingies you’ve seen the influencers using on their faces are actually it. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most commonly used Gua Sha tools and shapes.
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Flat Rose Quartz or Jade Tools
These are small, flat tools made from materials like rose quartz or jade. They typically have a smooth, flat surface for gentle scraping on the face.
Heart-shaped Tools
Some facial Gua Sha tools have a heart shape, with rounded edges that can be used for various facial contours.
Curved Tools
Tools with gentle curves are designed to fit the curves of the face, allowing for smooth and comfortable use on areas like the cheeks and jawline.
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Comb-shaped Tools
These tools may have multiple small teeth or ridges, resembling a comb. They can be used for more detailed work on the face, such as along the eyebrows or around the eyes.
Roller Tools
While not strictly Gua Sha, facial rollers made from jade or other materials are also popular for facial massage. These typically have one or two rolling heads and are used to promote circulation and reduce puffiness.
Globe-shaped or Mushroom Tools
Small tools with a rounded or globe-shaped surface can be used for more localized massage, especially around the eyes.
Flat or Dolphin-shaped Tools
To make your choice between these tools a bit easier, we’ll tell you that the flat (sometimes called dolphin-shaped) tool is the most universal one, and the simplest to use for first timers. Later on, once you get the knack of it, you might add other shapes and stones to your collection.
What are the best products to use with Gua Sha massage?
To truly bring out the best from your Gua Sha practices, you can pair the treatments with the usage of oils and serums.
If you prefer using oils with your massage, then the best choices might be rosehip oil, jojoba oil, camellia oil, and argan oil. All of these oils are lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin while also providing nourishment, hydration, and anti-inflammatory benefits, thus making them perfect for Gua Sha massages.
Oils
Fushi Organic Rosehip Oil 100ml
Price: 20.00 GBP
An organic rosehip oil full of antioxidants and nutrients that works against aging, hyperpigmentation, scarring, and as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Fushi Organic Jojoba Oil 100ml
Price: 18.00 GBP
Organic jojoba oil that does wonders for dry skin. The oil is rich with Vitamin E which is a known antioxidant agent, that fights against aging.
Herbivore Orchid Camellia and Jasmine Weightless Hydration Facial Oil 50ml
Price: 74.00 USD
A blend of orchid, camellia, and jasmine oils to rejuvenate your skin and provide it with nourishment like no other.
It’s real when you’re with Monetha. 😉 We find the best deals for the nicest products + give you cashback when you buy through Monetha.
The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Argan Oil 30ml
Price: 7.50 USD
A 100% cold-pressed argan oil packed with vitamins and fatty acids for the perfect Gua Sha experience.
Serums
If you’re not that into oils in your skincare routine, another thing that works wonders when paired with Gua Sha massage are serums. Here, the choice is completely up to you, since you can use any serum of your liking. Be it Vitamin C serum for brightening the skin, hyaluronic acid for moisturizing, or even retinol for rejuvenating.
Six Gldn Gua Sha Rose Quartz Facial Tool & Nourishing Face Oil
Price: 58.70 USD
A set of rose quartz Gua Sha massage tool and a nourishing face oil serum from Six Glnd, to unlock the true potential of the therapy and to rejuvenate your skin.
Sacheu Slick Skin Gua Sha Serum
Price: 22.00 USD
A silky soft formula packed with lipids, ceramides, and squalene to deeply nourish, moisturize, and rejuvenate your skin.
SEASONLY 21-Day Challenge Moisturizing Face Set
Price: 69.00 GBP
A set of rose quartz Gua Sha massage tool, a night repair oil, and a hydrating serum for a 21-day challenge to better looking skin.
NUXE Super Serum 30ml
Price: 45.00 USD
An expert blend of anti-aging ingredients from NUXE that works incredibly well in rejuvenating your skin when paired with Gua Sha massage.
Takeaway note
Gua Sha is an ancient healing therapy that has been in practice for over 700 years. Recently, it has gained immense popularity due to its potent anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and rejuvenating benefits, which are accessible to almost anyone. Even a short five-minute facial massage can significantly improve your looks and wellness. If you’re looking for something new to try out and add to your skincare routine, Gua Sha and its incredible benefits are definitely worth considering.
Sephora
One of the world’s leading beauty retailers offering skincare, makeup, fragrances, body and hair care, tools, treatments, and accessories.
LookFantastic
LookFantastic is a global online retailer specializing in beauty and skincare products from a wide range of well-established and emerging brands.
eCosmetics
eCosmetics.com is a one-stop-shop for all your skincare, haircare, and makeup needs, trusted by million of shoppers online.
