Gua sha is an East Asian (Chinese) healing technique that uses natural rocks with special design and smoothness to help us out with facial and body massage.
The technique consists of scraping the skin to provide blood circulation and oxygen to the skin and goes deeper than aesthetics as it can also help with issues such as body inflammations and chronic pain, according to Chinese medicine.
How To Do Gua Sha Massage Step By Step
- Wash your face with soap specific to your skin type and sanitize your hands.
- Apply moisturizer, saline solution, oil, or serum of your choice to facilitate movements.
- Hold the gua sha with the curved side to your face and gently glide.
The first location is the forehead, from the bottom up, starting above the eyebrows to the root of the hair.
On the cheek, the movement is from the center to the outside, from the side of the nose to the ears.
The curved end is for the side of the face, from the bottom up, starting at the chin and ending at the ears.
The eye area is very sensitive, be careful! Gently move from the inner corner to the temple.
The ritual can be performed at any time of day.
The important thing is that, after the massage with moisturizer, apply sunscreen, if it is during the day.
At night, finish with nourishing or acidic creams, according to the doctor’s recommendation.
Gua Sha For Face Massage Q&A
What Does Gua Sha Facial Do?
Some studies state that by doing gua sha facial massages regularly, you will notice improvements in blood circulation, wrinkle reduction, facial definition and decreased puffiness.
However to get the right results, it has to be conducted with caution, as you need to use a gua sha tool that’s specially designed to the area and scrape the skin in a gentle manner.
How Long To Gua Sha Your Face
Be Careful If you are doing it yourself, because we tend to stay way longer than we normally should. You can do your gua sha for approximately five minutes per session.
More than that could be dangerous especially if you are not able yet to manage the strength of the pressure you are applying. The first time I used my gua sha, I got so excited (or anxious) to get results that I did it for too long.
The pressure I applied was not adequate either, and as a result my face got really red and swollen, it was really weird. So my advice is to start slow and increase if needed just when you feel more confident in the process.
Gua Sha Contraindications
We love Gua Sha, but be cautious as those who suffer from chronic skin disease. In this sense, those with skin cancer, eczema, psoriasis, should avoid this technique, or consult a dermatologist to understand if they should be able to use it or not.
In addition, this type of technique is contraindicated for those who are taking anticoagulants, those who have special skin conditions such as infections (boils, abscesses, herpes, etc.), and a pregnant woman. Please consult a doctor for personal information.
Gua Sha For Face Slimming FAQ
Can I Use Gua Sha For Double Chin?
Yes, you can use gua sha to reduce double chin, but the effects will be seen only over time, after adopting a constant routine. For this, you can use the longest part of the gua sha stone gently from the middle of your neck, gently scraping the rock towards the chin.
Then you can use the wavy part of the gua sha to stroke the jawline from the chin towards the ears. Then fit the gua sha stone on the part above the ear and trace your neck all the way down to the shoulders.
Is Gua Sha Better Than a Roller For Face Slimming?
Gua sha is definitely the best option for face slimming than facial roller. This is because The facial roller won’t have the same pressure power that the Gua Sha can provide to scrape the toxins and get rid of liquid retention.
Should I use more than one gua sha at once?
Even though it is not necessary to use more than one gua sha at once, you can still do it. I do that all the time, as I think it can be a time saver. Just get used to the process and make sure you apply a light pressure.
Is it possible to store gua sha in the fridge for better results?
Absolutely yes as it can help de-puffing your face. Keeping the gua sha in the fridge is a great way to help you get rid of swelling bags.
Can I use gua sha on my cheekbones?
Yes. You can use the wavy curvy part of the gua sha, starting from the nose, tracing a curvy all the way to your ear, following the cheekbones, for a lifting effect.
Can gua sha fix facial asymmetry
No. Gua sha can help minimize swelling, but does not help with facial asymmetry.
