Gua Sha 101: Everything You Need to Know

The facial massage tool that took the world of skincare by storm, skin-care gurus swear by its effectiveness and it actually has plenty of benefits. The Gua Sha, which literally means “scraping sand”, is known to be one of the oldest forms of traditional Chinese medicine ever recorded.

Want to get one but don’t know where to start? We’re here to guide you through the whole process from how to use it to its benefits.

 

Why is the gua sha good for you?

 

It helps with lymphatic drainage

You know when you wake up and your face feels swollen? Well, worry no more! Because when you use the gua sha, the gentle scraping encourages lymphatic drainage, helping reduce puffiness and water retention that can be noticeable around the eyes and cheeks.

 

It reduces inflammation

The gua sha can be greatly beneficial for those who have skin conditions like rosacea or inflamed acne, it can help reduce inflammation and redness, as the increased blood flow after using it reduces the appearance of breakouts. Just make sure you don’t use it directly on areas with acne, only around it.

 

It enhances product absorption

Using it can also improve the absorption of skincare products, the increased blood flow can make your skin react way better to active ingredients whether in your serums or moisturizers so it will help clear your skin faster.

 

It reduces tension

Regular use can help relieve muscle tension in the face, potentially reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promoting a more toned, glowy, lifted face.

 

How to use it?

First, you should prep your face with your favorite oil or serum to make the gua sha glide smoothly then start with light upward motions. Beginning at your neck, sweep from the collarbone to the jawline, then move from the chin to the ear to reach the jawline. Apply light strokes to the under-eye area from the inner corner of the eye to the temple, and glide from the nose outward to the ear for your cheeks.

Apply the final touch to your forehead by going from the brows to the hairline. Repeat each stroke 3-5 times while taking deep breaths to relax.