The Gua Sha is the new favorite tool of beauty fans all over the world. In fact, the handy massage stone is now even threatening to dethrone the jade roller as the most beloved beauty aid. But what can scraping with the wave-shaped gemstone do, and how does its application differ from the classic jade roller massage?
Where does Gua Sha massage come from?
Similar to face massage with a jade roller, Gua Sha massage is much more than just a hyped, new beauty technique for skin beautification. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Gua Sha method has been used for thousands of years to combat numerous ailments. The health purpose of the treatment is also reflected in the stone's name: Gua in Chinese means "to scrape" and Sha means "acute illness." It is pronounced "Gwa-sha."
What can classic Gua Sha massage do?
According to TCM, traditional Gua Sha massage involves scraping certain areas of the skin. This activates reflex zones and so-called meridians, which are channels through which life energy (Chi) flows. In Chinese medicine, this treatment is primarily used to prevent illness, stimulate blood circulation and lymphatic flow, and eliminate toxins.
The positive effects of classic Gua Sha massage have even been scientifically proven: Studies have shown that Gua Sha application can successfully relieve neck pain and chronic back pain.
However, the traditional form of the Gua Sha method is not for the faint of heart, as images on the internet attest: It involves scraping with so much pressure that visible treatment marks remain.
What can Gua Sha facial massage do?
Fortunately, Gua Sha facial massage is much gentler. Here, the stone is pulled from the center of the face outwards and upwards with very light pressure.
The Gua Sha method for the face is based on the same mechanisms of action as Gua Sha massage for the body and is said to be similarly effective: The application increases blood circulation in the face and stimulates lymphatic flow – toxins accumulated under the skin are thus better removed, and the formation of blackheads and blemishes is reduced. Furthermore, morning puffiness can be significantly alleviated.
In summary, Gua Sha massage can:
- stimulate your blood circulation and lymphatic flow,
- support the removal of toxins,
- promote clear skin,
- release stubborn tension in your face,
- increase the elasticity of your skin,
- emphasize and lift your natural facial contours,
- create radiant facial skin,
- alleviate puffiness.
How Gua Sha massage works
Don't worry, Gua Sha application is very straightforward. With a little practice, you'll quickly figure out which type of massage is best for you. As preparation, you should thoroughly cleanse your face. To ensure the stone glides well on the skin, you should also apply a facial oil of your choice. (The massage should never, ever be performed on dry skin, as this can irritate the delicate facial skin.)
Preparation
Cleanse your face thoroughly and apply a facial oil to help the stone glide smoothly. Use pleasant, light pressure with three to five repetitions on each side, always scraping as flat as possible.
Eyes
Use the tips of the Gua Sha, place it in the inner corner of the eyelids and under the eyes, and stroke with light pressure towards the temples.
Cheeks and Chin
Use the wide, inwardly curved side, start at the chin, and stroke up towards the hairline. Move up to the mouth and nose and stroke towards the ears.
Forehead
Use the wide, outwardly or inwardly curved end of the stone, place it in the center of the forehead, and stroke horizontally to the temple and upwards to the hairline.
Neck
Use the wide, outwardly curved end of the Gua Sha, start at the base of the neck and slowly move the stone up towards the chin.
Cleaning & Care
Clean the Gua Sha with a damp cloth and let it dry.
TIP: Massage morning and evening with different goals. In the morning, focus on reducing puffiness and giving yourself a fresh glow, and in the evening, focus on relieving tension.
New York skincare blogger Gothamista shows how to do it right in our favorite Gua Sha massage video.
Gua Sha vs. Jade Roller
Both tools use gemstones for facial massage, so the treatment effects might seem indistinguishable at first glance. However, a closer look at both beauty tools reveals subtle yet significant differences.
But first, let's look at the similarities:
Like the jade roller, the Gua Sha promotes blood circulation and lymphatic flow. This allows toxins accumulated under the skin to be better eliminated, promoting clear, radiant skin. The Gua Sha can also effectively alleviate morning puffiness with the right method.
The main difference between the two tools is that you have to learn the correct technique for Gua Sha massage, whereas you can simply start rolling with a jade roller. With Gua Sha massage, you have to apply the pressure yourself – unlike the jade roller, which takes the work out of your hands with its technique and its own weight.
But don't let that deter you: After a short practice phase, you'll quickly get the hang of it and be scraping like you've never done anything else (I promise!).
Furthermore, what first appears to be a disadvantage is actually an advantage, because with the Gua Sha, you have many more possibilities to massage your face creatively and to reach all pressure points and facial contours. In comparison to the Gua Sha, the jade roller's mechanical construction limits its functionality, and intense users quickly reach its limits.
You should prefer a Gua Sha if you primarily want to
- release tension in your face,
- reach all contours and pressure points of your face,
- primarily lift your facial contours,
- you are willing to invest some time in learning the correct massage technique.
Do you just want to quickly alleviate your swollen eyes in the morning without having to learn a new beauty routine? Then the roller is the right tool for you!
Which stone is best?
When choosing stones, your personal preferences are most important. The stones differ in their physical properties and their so-called healing effects (if you believe in them). The only important thing is that you scrape with a genuine, pure natural Gua Sha.
Rose Quartz Gua Sha
Rose quartz has a particularly smooth surface and is therefore especially suitable for sensitive skin. Additionally, rose quartz is naturally cooling and stimulating.
On a spiritual level, rose quartz stands for self-love and harmony. If you believe in the metaphysical effects of stones, the pink stone can help rebalance your harmony and replenish your self-love reserves.
In natural medicine, rose quartz is known as a natural remedy for headaches and impure skin. So, if you frequently suffer from headaches, blackheads, or pimples, you should opt for a rose quartz Gua Sha.
Obsidian Gua Sha
Black obsidian is considered a special, powerful stone. It is formed from volcanic lava and is said to have a particularly intensive effect on the body. It is believed to promote blood circulation, release tension and blockages, and firm connective tissue. It is also said to help with better absorption of vitamins C and D.
These abilities make black obsidian the perfect stone for your Gua Sha beauty massage – especially in combination with the right facial care, such as a Vitamin C serum. On an energetic level, obsidian is particularly known for its anxiety-relieving effect.
But no matter which stone you ultimately choose, the massage effect is similarly good for almost all stones. At the same time, the Gua Sha helps you transform your beauty routine into a soothing self-care ritual – and incidentally makes your skin glow!
