Gua Sha: What The Hell Is It & Why Should You Try It?
Gua Sha — what the hell is it?
For those of you who don’t know, Gua Sha is an ancient Chinese healing technique that involves gently massaging your skin with a tool in order to improve circulation. This massage therapy is meant to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue, which increases blood flow. Benefits of Facial Gua Sha include firmer, smoother looking skin, improved dark circles, and a more even and radiant complexion.
I became really interested in Gua Sha a few months back after purchasing my Rose Quartz Roller. The one that I bought came in a pack with a few other rose quartz tools, and I was curious to learn about what they did. I quickly discovered that I was even more obsessed with the facial massage tools, and they have since then become a staple part of my daily regime.
So, what exactly does Gua Sha do?
Gua Sha involves a specific upward and outward technique, pushing the excess toxins & fluids out of your face and stimulating the lymphatic system. Essentially, this process relieves tension and improves circulation leaving you looking and feeling more fresh and awake.
Here’s an illustration that demonstrates the Gua Sha motion:
What tools do you need?
You can pay hundreds of dollars to go to a spa and get a Gua Sha facial… Or, you can just get the tools and do this at home. Here, I’ve linked the tools that I like to use. I particularly love rose quartz because it has a refreshing, cooling effect on the skin. I keep my rose quartz tools in my medicine cabinet and just massage my face in an upward and outward motion in the morning when I wake up, and at night after I take off my makeup. It’s important to do Gua Sha on a wet face in order to prevent any tugging or pulling. If my skin is feeling dry, I’ll usually do this with my favorite Marula Oil, or I’ll just do my Gua Sha massage while cleansing my skin. Additionally, make sure massaging your face from the center out, and then all the way down your neck. If you forget to go down your neck, you could end up with a tension headache. Lastly, make sure to drink tons of water afterward in order to ensure that all of the toxins flush out of your body.
Before trying Gua Sha, I was really hesitant and unconvinced that it would do anything, but I have to say I was completely wrong. Since starting, I’ve noticed that I instantly look more awake and alive; my face is less puffy, and my under eye bags are less significant. Additionally, I’ve noticed that on the days where I forget to do Gua Sha, I’m more prone to headaches, and experience more tension in my jaw and facial muscles.
I’m sold. Are you?
For more beauty & skincare tips, click here.
xx,
seb.
