Gua sha is a form of therapeutic self-massage originating from traditional Chinese medicine. The name originates from the word “sha” or “redness that encourages the skin to heal itself.” The practice is known for its extensive benefits, like relieving tension, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation - leaving you feeling and looking radiant. Many people credit gua sha with defining their cheekbones, jawline, and reducing under-eye bags—which could be why in some places, it’s replacing botox as an all-natural solution.
Gua sha works by improving lymphatic drainage, or releasing fluid (often filled with toxins and waste) from the cells in the face that cause puffiness, swollen skin, and fatigue. By using gentle yet deliberate strokes, gua sha moves these fluids stuck beneath the skin into the body’s natural detoxification system.
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Gua Sha Benefits
- Decreases inflammation and puffiness by improving lymphatic circulation and boosting cell turnover
- Firms skin and sculpts facial muscles to contour, lift, and tone your skin, with enhanced results over time
- Minimizes wrinkles, fine lines, and smooths skin texture
- Stimulates blood circulation, which increases collagen production and fights aging
- Promotes mindfulness through the deeply relaxing, grounding act of slow, deliberate massage
- Clears acne and reduces the frequency of breakouts for oily skin
Why Natural Green Jade?
When selecting a stone for your gua sha, experts recommend finding one made of pure jade or rose quartz, though green jade is the traditional stone used for gua sha. The jade stone is believed to carry a healing energy that promotes relaxation, calmness, and balance. While rose quartz should be used in the morning, green jade is the ideal crystal for any time of day. Using these pure stones will increase the absorption of your nourishing skincare formulas.
How To Use A Gua Sha
- First, prep your skin with a Facial Serum on your face and neck.
- Hold the gua sha stone at a 15-45 degree angle to increase the surface area on your skin.
- Slide the gua sha with gentle pressure in long strokes from the center toward the outside of your face. Use both hands to lightly pull your skin in the opposite direction.
- For your neck, massage from bottom to top to open the lymphatic channels.
- Apply a Rejuvenating Moisturizer after sculpting to lock in essential nutrients.
- Remember that consistency is key. Gua sha will be most effective if you do it on a regular basis for at least five minutes.
- Finally, give yourself permission to slow down and embrace this moment of self-love and self-care!
Other Gua Sha Tips
- The double curved side of your tool promotes blood circulation under the eyes, cheeks, and cheekbones. The flatter side is best for your neck and forehand.
- To aid with inflammation, you can also store your gua sha stone in the fridge or freezer for a cooling effect.
- If you start to notice lingering redness or irritation, you may be applying too much pressure.
More questions? To see a gua sha massage in action, check out our founder Genevieve, who shares her tips on proper techniques. Happy sculpting!
