In the realm of holistic skincare practices, few methods have garnered as much attention in recent years as gua sha massage. Originating from traditional Chinese medicine, this technique involves gently scraping the skin with a specially designed tool to promote circulation, lymphatic drainage, and overall rejuvenation. But beyond its cultural roots, what exactly is gua sha, and how does it work? What type of gua sha is best? Let's dive into this ancient practice and explore how to gua sha.
Understanding Gua Sha Massage
Gua sha, which translates to "scraping sand," involves using a smooth-edged tool to gently scrape the skin in upward strokes. The pressure applied during the massage helps to increase blood flow, release tension in facial muscles, and promote lymphatic drainage, resulting in a brighter, more lifted complexion. Additionally, the repeated motions stimulate collagen production, which can contribute to firmer, more youthful-looking skin over time.
How do you use it?
On a clean, dry face with clean hands, add a generous amount of a face oil before you start. Then take the gua sha and with light pressure apply in up ward motions at a 45 degree angle starting with your cheeks and following the map below on both sides of your face. I like to do about 5-10 strokes in each area. When you're finished don't forget to slide the gua sha down your neck to complete the lymphatic drainage too. and lift in upward motions at a 45-degree angle.
When not to use your gua sha:
If you have broken skin, sunburns, rashes or blood circulation issues. Remember to always ask your doctor if you have any other concerns!
What Type of Gua Sha is Best?
Crystal Gua Sha vs. Sustainable Steel Gua Sha
When it comes to choosing a gua sha tool, one of the primary considerations is the material it's made from. Crystal gua sha tools, typically crafted from stones like jade or rose quartz, are super trendy online and in the wellness space. However, they also come with some drawbacks. Crystal gua shas are fragile and can break if dropped and the the porous nature of crystals may harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly, potentially leading to skin irritation or breakouts. From a sustainability point of view they are 100% natural and if they do break you could easily put them in your garden or repurpose as decor. However the ethics is where things get tricky. Most crystals do not have a clear or transparent supply chain which is a good indicator there are some shady sourcing practices. For instance, even at the biggest gem show in the US, the Tuscon Gem Show, most vendors either cannot or will not tell you where their crystals come from - like not even the country in some cases. This is because most crystals are actually found during mining and depending on which country they come from are directly tied to child & slave labor. I always say - if a company isn't transparent in their sourcing practices there's probably a reason why and this is certainly true for crystals.
On the other hand, sustainable steel gua sha tools offer a durable, effective, and ethical alternative. Made from high-quality stainless steel that's infinitely recyclable, these tools are virtually indestructible and easy to clean. They can also work better to de-puff if you put it in the fridge prior to use and use as cold therapy massave on the face.
Whether you opt for a crystal gua sha or a sustainable steel gua sha, incorporating this ancient massage technique into your skincare routine can offer a natural lift and rejuvenation for your complexion. Each have their own pros and cons but we really prefer the stainless steel gua shas due to their more ethical supply chain, durabilty, and de-puffing qualities. Ready to get glowing?
Shop our stainless steel gua sha and pair with the Everyday Glo Oil to start a skincare ritual that will unlock glowing healthy skin & a natural lift.
