It's trending right now, but the ancient Chinese medical skin treatment is not new. In fact Gua Sha, pronounced gwa sha, has its origins in the Paleolithic Age. People used hands and stones to alleviate illnesses.
While it feels just as lovely as it sounds, the benefits actually extend way past relaxation and lessened tension—it’s linked to clearer skin, fewer wrinkles and a more sculpted appearance. Here's an in-depth look into what this Eastern "facelift" is all about.
Gua sha is an ancient medical procedure from China and Southeast Asia. This treatment was conducted on the body by a close family member. They would vigorously scrape the skin with a buffalo horn or antler. Over time this evolved into using gentler instruments like porcelain soup spoons and jade stones.
These instruments are used on the skin in upward strokes to relax stiff muscles and promote tissue drainage. The massager uses both short and long strokes on the arms, back, legs, and buttocks to boost blood flow.
According to eastern medicine, sluggish energy in the body may cause inflammation, which leads to various chronic pain conditions. Scraping the skin is believed to undo this weak energy, reduce inflammation, relax muscles, release toxins, boost the immune system, and encourage healing.
The immediate results last for days. However, for more deep-rooted conditions, you need regular sessions.
Facial gua sha is a gentler version of the treatment and is done on the face.
Some of the top benefits of this treatment include:
Please note: the gua sha technique is different from that of the jade roller. A gua sha gives you more flexibility than a roller. The benefits you achieve depend on your speed, pressure, direction, and which edge you select.
This method also effectively drains the lymph nodes leading to the overall radiant appearance of your skin.
One of the best things about gua sha is that you can do it yourself. It saves you money and time and you can do it anywhere. However, be cautious when performing this facial gua sha to avoid injuring the skin.
There's a flood of tools in the market, but choose a stone that sits comfortably in your hand. Alternatively, buy them in different sizes and keep them on hand. You can have one with a smaller curve for use around the eye area, and another V-shaped one to contour your jawline.
Before starting, clean and prime your face with a serum or lotion. Doing this ensures that your tool glides smoothly across your face.
Facial skin is delicate, especially near the eyes where the skin is thinner. Always start with light pressure until you're comfortable with the technique.
Make sure your tool is parallel to your face always to avoid bruising yourself.
Hold the area you're working on using your free hand and keep it taut. Manipulating your tool will be a breeze.
Work with upward strokes to further enhance the lifting effect.
We recommend that you do facial gua sha two to three times a week to enjoy the best results.
If you have inflamed or bruised skin, avoid this facial until the skin heals.
Here's how to properly do gua sha at home:
Enjoy radiant skin!
With love,
The Sole Toscana Beauty Team