The Gua Sha massage technique has its roots far back in time. It is an ancient technique that has been used for centuries in the East, especially in China, as a real medical therapy. Over time, this technique has become increasingly popular in the West, thanks to celebrities, influencers, and beauty experts who have started talking about it on social networks.
The Chinese term Gua means to rub, while Sha means heat. It is, in fact, a massage that must be performed by rubbing natural stone tools on the skin to create heat. The massage and heat have several benefits. First, muscle tension is released, which can help ease anxiety and stress and banish bad thoughts—a truly relaxing massage in every respect. Furthermore, both blood circulation and lymphatic circulation are stimulated, making the skin more relaxed, with wrinkles, expression lines, and imperfections that become less noticeable over time.
The skin also becomes brighter, silkier, and toned. Gua Sha also helps to deflate and decongest, which is particularly useful for bags and dark circles. Additionally, it enhances the absorption of facial products such as creams, serums, and oils.
Which stone to choose?
The stones for the Gua Sha massage come in different shapes and materials. The preferred shapes are heart, horn, or butterfly, as they are easier to use.
As for the materials:
- Jade: Green in color, considered a healing stone, with soothing and calming properties for both body and mind.
- Rose quartz: Known for its healing properties, often used to promote love and harmony.
- Black nephrite: A beauty stone believed to protect both body and mind; in Chinese medicine, it is said to improve blood and lymphatic circulation.
- Amethyst: Has calming and soothing properties.
- Black tourmaline: Helps eliminate toxins and negative energy.
- Rock crystal: Has energizing and purifying properties.
Another type of Gua Sha that is particularly trendy right now is the metal one. Metal is decongestant and soothing as it remains naturally cold, enhancing the effects of the traditional massage. Metal Gua Sha tools often have more precise edges, making them more durable and hygienic than stone.
Regardless of the tool you choose, Gua Sha is a great way to improve skin health, reduce wrinkles and stress signs, and promote general well-being.
How to use Gua Sha for the face
Before using Gua Sha on your face, it is essential to thoroughly cleanse your skin and apply a cream, oil, or serum. This ensures that the stone glides smoothly and allows the product to penetrate deeper, maximizing its effectiveness.
The Gua Sha massage on the face must be delicate and light. The stone should slide gently without applying excessive pressure to avoid irritation and redness, especially for sensitive skin. Movements should be slow and fluid, never fast or jerky.
In addition to stimulating circulation, the Gua Sha massage also promotes the flow of vital energy, which, according to ancient Chinese medicine, passes through the body via meridians.
A good technique is to start from the neck and move upward toward the hairline, always lifting the skin rather than dragging it downward.
The Gua Sha massage on the body
The Gua Sha technique is also ideal for the body, perfect for toning, firming, and reducing cellulite signs.
But how to use Gua Sha on the body?
- Same method as for the face: Slide the stone with upward movements on the desired area several times.
- Apply very light pressure to avoid discomfort.
Gua Sha works, but consistency is key to obtaining all its benefits. The massage should be done daily, ideally for about 15 minutes. If you have less time, don’t worry—even a shorter session will bring results!
A little recap? Here are the steps to follow:
- Choose the roller or Gua Sha stone that suits you best, ensuring it is suitable for the face and neck.
- Prepare the skin by applying oil or cream along the lymphatic pathways to help the tool glide smoothly.
- Start from the neck, using slow and gentle movements toward the collarbone.
- Move to the jaw and cheeks, using the concave part of the stone without pinching the skin.
- Be gentle on the eye area, moving from the inner to the outer corner to reduce puffiness.
- Massage the forehead, smoothing with the concave part of the stone, including the eyebrows.
- Finish with small pressure points on the entire face to drain excess lymph.
By following these steps, you can fully enjoy the benefits of Gua Sha and achieve bright, toned skin.
Will you try it? Let us know on Instagram!
