What is a gua sha and what types of gua sha should you choose?
You may be familiar with the term "Gua Sha" but not sure what it means. But lucky for you we’re about to do a deep dive.
In recent years, it has become a popular, go-to skincare practice in the US, but it’s been around for a VERY long time.
Do you know the difference between Traditional Gua Sha and Facial Gua Sha today? Read on to find out!
What Is Gua Sha?
Gua sha is a traditional physical therapy in Asia, which has been used for hundreds of years. It uses skin scraping or abrasion to release stagnated blood, decrease fluid buildup from beneath the skin, stimulate blood circulation and promote healing.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, gua sha helps remove blocked energy from the body for an improved blood circulation, lymphatic flow and to release toxins from within tissues. Gua sha is most commonly used to treat back and neck pain but can now gain popularity as a facial massage technique.
Traditional VS Facial Gua Sha
Traditional Gua Sha
Traditional gua sha is done by scraping the face with various tools to promote blood circulation, eliminate cold-like symptoms, and alleviate pain.
This tool is generally made from a piece of bamboo covered with copper rings on either end with a handle in between. It is a tool that has been in use for a very long time and looks a bit like a flat iron with a handle attached in the middle. There are also other types of traditional gua sha tools such as ones made from bone, jade, silver plated copper, gold plated iron and wood.
Facial Gua Sha
Facial Gua Sha is a type of massage that uses a "gua sha" tool to scrape the face form the outside inward. The scraping method depends on various factors including the type of face. For example, if you are using it to promote blood circulation, the scraping method should be gentle; if you are trying to treat acne, then you should scrape harder.
One of the most well-known types of facial gua sha is jade gua sha which is made from white jade, high quality limestone, low quality limestone, or basalt. These materials are generally not hot when used but they should be cooled in water for at least half an hour before use so that the heat is evenly distributed.
7 Benefits of Gua Sha for Face:
#1 Boost Circulation
#2 Provides Instant Face Lift
#3 Release Tension from the Muscles
#4 Reduce Fine Lines and Wrinkles
#5 Improve Lymph Drainage
#6 Contour Jawline and Cheekbones
#7 Reduce Puffiness
Different Types of Face Gua Sha Based on Material
Rose Quartz Gua Sha
Jade Gua Sha
Amethyst Gua Sha
Bian stone Gua Sha
Green Aventurine Gua Sha
How to Use Gua Sha for Face
Step 1: Hold the Gua Sha in your hand at a 45-degree angle
Step 2: Scrape across the skin into an upward motion
Step 3: Repeat every day or 2-3 times
For Jawline: Start from the center of the jaw to the earlobe. Repeat on the other side.
For Cheekbones: Start at the end of the nose and glide upward along the cheekbone towards the ear.
Check out TikTok user @allyoucanface tutorial below:
@allyoucanface Here is how to use a #guasha correctly ✨ #guashatutorial #guashafacial #guashamassage #allyoucanface ♬ La Vie En Rose - Emily Watts
Note: Soreness and redness usually results from the procedure and typically lasts for several hours or days after treatment. No not use on broken skin. This therapy can be mildly uncomfortable but is considered safe if proper technique is used.
Want to know which celebrity uses Gua Sha? Check out Victoria's Secret model Miranda Kerr’s Instagram below: