Gua Sha is an ancient and alternative therapy. Etymologically speaking, Gua means scraping and Sha means sand. This technique involves scraping the skin with the tip of a special instrument, and the materials used can be various, such as the back of a spoon, a small metal cap, or even a coin.
But how does this device work? The skin is moisturized with massage oil, and the instrument presses down firmly and scrapes. The goal is to stimulate blood circulation, also helping to reduce inflammation and pain. After the procedure, you may have red streaks on your face or body, which will disappear within a few days.
Although commonly used on various parts of the body, this technique is also widely used on the face as a beauty treatment. If you use Gua Sha at home, you should thoroughly cleanse your neck (before and after), as the movements of this practice direct toxins to this area. To achieve full benefits, facial exercises should be repeated at least five times per session and on each side of the face, separately.
What Exactly Does Gua Sha Do?
Gua Sha offers countless beneficial properties for skincare , including:
- A brighter appearance, slowing skin aging with increased blood flow;
- A valuable aid in lymphatic drainage, as it removes the accumulation of liquids on your face;
- Relieves muscle tension, thus instantly relaxing the face and improving headaches;
- Hydration of dry skin. This is because with Gua Sha , toxins are pushed out of the face, leaving the skin with its natural moisture;
- Reducing the appearance of wrinkles, if firmer pressure is applied to lines and wrinkles. (It's no coincidence that it's nicknamed the natural Botox of the East, as it increases collagen production, leaving skin looking younger and more toned, without the need for injections!);
- Highlighting facial contours. Massaging your face tones your skin, allowing it to take a back seat to makeup to define it;
- Eliminating skin problems. This ancient Chinese technique also eliminates dark circles and blemishes from the face. It also helps cure or improve rosacea.
And if you're not yet fully motivated to try this treatment for its aesthetic benefits, know that this technique can also offer non-cosmetic benefits, such as relieving muscle tension in the jaw region, improving sinusitis and migraines, and making the blood richer in nutrients and oxygenated. It also offers mental health benefits, increasing our clarity.
Also recommended for treating acute and chronic problems, Gua Sha helps resolve joint and muscle problems, fibromyalgia, and anxiety, increasing our energy levels.
The steps you must follow to perform this therapy are:
- Cleanse your face thoroughly and apply an oil suitable for your skin type;
- Perform upward movements that drag the skin on your forehead, jaw, and neck. (The cheek area should be pulled to the side.)
- Ultimately, you'll feel calmer and have firmer, healthier skin!
Treat your skin at home.
Practicing this method at home is very simple. You can choose the shape and size of your Gua Sha , and the most commonly used types are made of jade (a green ornamental stone) or rose quartz. Jade is known for instilling serenity and purity, also helping to promote fertility; rose quartz is known as the stone of love, encouraging harmony in the heart, unconditional passion, and compassion.
