What Is Gua Sha and What Are the Benefits?
Gua sha is an ancient practice in traditional Chinese medicine that’s experienced a resurgence in the Western health and wellness sphere due to its wide range of applications. This old-school technique can do it all, from improving circulation to sculpting the perfect jawline. In this guide, we’re discussing the perks of this treatment and how to get enviable results at home!
What is gua sha?
Gua sha is a type of massage that uses tools–often made of jade or rose quartz–to scrape the skin’s surface. It’s a method of massage that promotes healthy circulation and dates back to the Stone Age.
How does gua sha work?
While modern gua sha applications focus on the face, this technique was originally a whole-body treatment. As the tool runs along the skin, it encourages blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which work to reduce inflammation. As you’ll see, this superpower makes it a multi-faceted remedy for a wide range of health issues and cosmetic concerns.
What is gua sha used for?
For centuries, people have used gua sha to heal from acute and chronic illnesses. The practice can even reduce muscle pain and migraine headaches. Although there’s limited research on the subject, it’s thought to promote an immune response that helps fight disease. In recent years, gua sha has exploded in popularity thanks to its ability to reduce puffiness and improve facial appearance.
Who can use gua sha?
Most people make great candidates for gua sha massage. However, you’ll need to avoid the technique if you’ve had fillers or Botox within the last month. Additionally, people with poor circulation, diabetes, or those who take blood thinners should check with their doctor before trying it.
What are the benefits of gua sha?
Today, gua sha is a popular way to define cheekbones and attain a youthful glow. However, the traditional health benefits attributed to this technique persist. Here are some of the most notable perks:
Enhance your appearance
You’ve probably seen videos on social media touting the magical effects of gua sha. Influencers post before-and-after pics of their former double chins or once-sagging jowls. When performed correctly, the technique can reduce fluid retention and engage the lymphatic system to create a healthier appearance.
Reduce inflammation
The movement of lymph fluid and increased blood flow pack a one-two punch against inflammation. Many believe this superpower is what makes it effective for fighting the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and poor sleep.
Pain relief
Many people use gua sha as part of a holistic treatment for chronic pain. Once again, we can thank enhanced circulation for this welcomed side effect. In fact, one study found that people with long-term neck pain saw significant improvement with gua sha massage, at least temporarily.
How do you use a gua sha skincare tool?
While you can find specialty gua sha tools made of metal or semi-precious stone, people have used everything from spoons to coins to activate their lymphatic system. That said, it’s important to choose a clean, sanitary object with a flat edge. Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing gua sha on your own skin:
Cleanse and tone your skin
Gua sha massage is just one facet of a healthy skincare routine, in addition to hydrating facials and skincare treatments. It’s essential to use it in conjunction with other positive habits. As such, you’ll want to begin with clean skin to avoid forcing dirt and oils into your pores. Use a gentle cleanser followed by a calming toner to prepare your skin for treatment.
Apply a facial oil or serum
Next, you’ll want to ensure you provide proper lubrication to help the gua sha tool glide across your skin. Any lightweight facial oil will do, but jojoba or rosehip oil are popular since they’re non-comedogenic. You may need to reapply as you massage your face and neck to avoid broken blood vessels.
Use your gua sha tool to massage
Start by using smooth, upward strokes along your neck, starting at your collarbone. Try to overlap these strokes and cover the entire surface of your neck. Then, complete the following movements on both sides of your face:
Pass the tool over your jawline from your chin to your ear.
Follow your cheekbone from the center of your face outward.
Place the tool under your eye and gently glide it toward your ear.
Lightly press the tool into your eyebrow and slowly move it toward your ear.
Stroke from your eyebrow upward to your hairline, covering your entire forehead.
When you’re finished, be sure to clean your gua sha tools and your face to remove any remaining oils.
Contact Vian Aesthetics for expert skincare advice!
The health benefits and anti-aging powers of gua sha are enough to make any non-believer curious. After all, folks have trusted this technique for centuries, so there’s probably something to be said for the ancient treatment method.
If you’re curious about gua sha or interested in other facial treatments, Vian Aesthetics is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services!
