New Delhi: Gua Sha is a traditional chinese tool used to heal and provide better skin. This technique involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, improve overall well-being of skin. The tool is often made from jade or rose quartz, across the skin. It’s commonly used on the face and body to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and enhance lymphatic drainage.
The term ‘Gua’ means to scrape, and ‘Sha’ refers to the redness or rash that may appear on the skin after the treatment. Although it has been practiced for centuries in Eastern medicine, Gua Sha has recently gained popularity in modern skincare routines and wellness practices worldwide. It is used by many women these days but one may wonder at times on how it works, and how it can be used to seek the most benefits, also the right tool for each skin type. Worry not, Dr Akanksha Singh Cornuit, Founder Promed Aesthetics has answers to all the questions. Seek expert guide and achieve healthy glowing skin now!
How does Gua Sha work?
Improves Circulation: The scraping action increases blood flow to the area, which can enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin.
Reduces Puffiness: By promoting lymphatic drainage, Gua Sha can help eliminate excess fluid, reducing swelling and puffiness, particularly around the eyes.
Stimulates Collagen Production: Regular use may promote collagen synthesis, leading to firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
Relaxes Tension: The technique can help release muscle tension in the face, contributing to a more relaxed appearance.
Enhances Product Absorption: Using Gua Sha with serums or oils can help improve their penetration into the skin.
Can Gua Sha reduce fine lines and wrinkles?
Yes, Gua Sha can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The increased blood flow can boost skin health, promoting a more youthful appearance. By reducing puffiness and fluid retention, Gua Sha can make skin look smoother and firmer. The gentle scraping motion may stimulate collagen synthesis, which can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the visibility of fine lines over time. By relieving tension in facial muscles, Gua Sha can create a smoother look.
Techniques to use Gua Sha
Here are some effective techniques for using Gua Sha on the face
Cleanse: Start with a clean face.
Apply a Serum or Oil: Use a facial oil or serum to provide slip and enhance benefits.
Techniues to use:
Forehead: Start at the centre of your forehead and glide the tool outward towards the temples. Repeat 5-10 times.
Cheeks: Move from the nose outwards towards the ears, following the cheekbone. Use gentle pressure and repeat 5-10 times on each side.
Jawline: Glide the tool from the chin along the jawline towards the ears. Repeat 5-10 times.
Under Eyes: Use the smaller edge of the tool and gently glide from the inner corner of the eye outwards. Repeat 5-10 times on each side.
Neck: Start at the base of the neck and move upwards towards the jawline.Repeat 5-10 times.
Best Gua Sha tool for various skin types
Choosing the right Gua Sha tool can enhance your experience based on your skin type. Here are some recommendations:
For Sensitive Skin
Material: Rose Quartz or Jade
These stones are gentle and soothing, minimising irritation while still providing benefits.
For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin:
Material: Stainless Steel or Bian Stone
These materials are non-porous and can be easily sanitised, reducing the risk of bacteria transfer.
For Dry or Mature Skin:
Material: Amethyst or Jade
These stones can help retain moisture and are believed to have anti-ageing properties, promoting hydration and elasticity.
For Combination Skin:
Material: Any of the above (Jade, Rose Quartz, or Amethyst)
A versatile stone can address different areas of the face with tailored techniques.
For Skin with Redness or Inflammation:
Material: Rose Quartz
Known for its calming properties, it can help soothe irritated skin.
Gua Sha and other skincare products – a good combo or not?
Yes, Gua Sha can be effectively combined with various skincare treatments and products. Here are some ways to enhance your routine:
Facial Oils and Serums: Using Gua Sha with a facial oil or serum provides slip, enhancing the massage and allowing for better absorption of the products
Moisturisers: Applying Gua Sha after moisturizer can help seal in hydration and improve skin texture.
Sheet Masks: After applying a sheet mask, gently using Gua Sha can help increase product penetration and maximize benefits.
After Treatments: You can use Gua Sha after treatments like facials or microdermabrasion to promote lymphatic drainage and soothe the skin.
With LED Masks: After using an LED mask, Gua Sha can help improve circulation and enhance the effects of the light therapy.
How to properly clean Gua Sha?
To clean and maintain your Gua Sha tool, follow these steps:
Clean After Each Use: Rinse your Gua Sha tool with warm water and a mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Use a soft, clean cloth to gently dry the tool. Avoid using abrasive materials.
If used frequently, wipe the tool with alcohol or a disinfectant to ensure it’s hygienic.
Keep your Gua Sha tool in a soft pouch or a dedicated storage box to prevent scratches.
Don’t expose the tool to extreme heat or cold to maintain its integrity.
Gua Sha for other body parts
Gua Sha can be used on various areas of the body, not just the face. It’s effective for neck and shoulders as it helps relieve tension and improve circulation. For back it can alleviate muscle soreness and stiffness. For arms and legs, Gua Sha promotes lymphatic drainage and reduces muscle fatigue.
Results from regular Gua Sha use can vary, but many people notice improvements within a few weeks. Typically, you may experience a boost in circulation and a temporary glow after each session. Reduced puffiness, improved skin texture, and relaxation of facial muscles. For long term effects one may see more noticeable changes in skin firmness, reduced fine lines, and overall skin tone improvement.
Gua Sha for skin health: Gua Sha is a popular skincare technique rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, known for its ability to boost circulation, reduce puffiness, and enhance skin’s natural glow. Here are ways to use, effects, benefits and all you need to know about this magical tool. Beauty Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
