What is Gua Sha

Gua Sha is an ancient beauty tool that stems from Traditional Chinese Medicine. Originally used as a body treatment, Gua Sha has since been adapted to be used in facial therapies, with the scraping motion evolving to a gentler gliding technique promoting a long list of benefits.

The Benefits of Gua Sha

The gentle gliding technique is less invasive than traditional Gua Sha, but it can still have some pretty impressive results including:

• Stimulates circulation
• Releases tightness and muscle tension
• Helps produce collagen
• Softens fine lines and wrinkles
• Decreases puffiness
• Diminishes dark circles
• Tightens skin
• Sculpts facial muscles

How to Use Gua Sha

There are so many varieties and shapes of Gua Sha tools, and many ways to use it. As a rule of thumb you will want to move the tool in an upward-outward motion, preferably in the direction of lymphatic flow. 

1. Hold the tool flat to the skin to with the curved side to your face and stroke/glide it up and out. Not back and forth!

2. Start with the neck, then jawline, chin and around the mouth. Repeat the stroke 3-5 times per area.  

3. To drain puffiness, start lightly, then more firmly to relax muscles. If your skin looks a little flushed afterwards it just shows a boost in circulation. 

When should I be using Gua Sha?

It depends, you can use it either morning, evening or both! In the morning it can be done to treat puffiness and energize the skin. Before bed you can use is to relax the muscles and release tightness.  The frequency of use will depend on your skin type and your skin’s tolerance for the method. As you start to familiarize yourself with it and get more comfortable with your own technique, you could aim to use Gua Sha at least two to three times per week.

What makes the black obsidian Gua Sha special?

Do you follow mysticism or believe in the power of crystals? If so, you’ll be glad to know that our Gua Shas are made from black obsidian crystal - known to be a powerful protector again negative energy. Black Obsidian is also said to dissolve blockages in the body's natural energy system and help relieve pain from swollen joints, arthritis, and cramps - which we are here all for!

Disclaimer

It's important to add that while Gua Sha is a great non-invasive technique, it cannot always be combined with other procedures. For example, if you have had facial botox or injectables within the past three to four weeks, you’ll want to wait at least four weeks from your most recent injection before beginning or continuing with a Gua Sha routine.