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Although it may seem, to the casual observer, that the rise of the Gua Sha facial tool has happened in the last couple of years, the history of the Gua Sha is actually centuries old. The Gua Sha predates acupuncture and comes from the Stone Age when Bian stone was used for various medical purposes.
So what are the benefits of using a Gua Sha and what else do you need to know before taking the plunge? Here’s an overview of everything you should know:
What are the benefits of Gua Sha?
The theory behind Gua Sha is that energy needs to flow through the body but can sometimes become stagnant. Rubbing the skin’s surface is thought to help break up this energy, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. On a biological level, lymphatic drainage is massively aided with regular Gua Sha usage and just a few minutes of Gua Sha action every day can have a major impact on skin’s tone, tautness and clarity. It also:
- Boosts collagen production
- Reduces appearance of puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles
- Eases facial muscle tension
- Restores firmness and elasticity and prevents sagging skin
- Promotes a brighter complexion
Where can I use them?
Most Gua Sha’s are used around the cheeks, chin, jowls and other areas of the face where you want to reduce puffiness. There are, however, more targeted tools such as the Hayo’u Beauty Restorer Rose Precision, which is a uniquely shaped tool, designed to target delicate skin around the eyes and lips. It’s perfect for working on crows feet and sagging eyelids, as well as the fine lines which appear with time around the mouth.
How do I use a Gua Sha?
It’s best to perform gua sha on clean, toned skin, so do the cleanse and tone part of your usual skincare routine before you begin. Also, make sure your hands and the tool itself is clean; you don’t want to introduce any bacteria to your face by using dirty tools.
Next, apply your favourite facial oil to allow the tool to glide over your skin without causing too much friction or irritation. Holding the tool at a 30 to 45-degree angle, very gently scrape it across your skin. As a rule, all movements should be upward and follow lymphatic flow. Repeat each movement three to five times before moving onto the next area of your skin.
Do I need additional products?
As we mentioned above, using a facial oil such as the Hayo’u Revive Beauty Oil will increase the effects of your Gua Sha massage. The oil is designed to be absorbed slowly so that it protects the skin while you’re using your Gua Sha tool and it includes iconic Chinese ingredients of lotus flower, frankincense and ylang ylang which all have potent skincare benefits.
Which Gua Sha tools are best?
It’s important to opt for tools which are made from authentic rose quartz or jade, rather than an acrylic tool which can cause skin irritations. Jade is known for inviting serenity and purity, as well as promoting fertility, balance and deep healing. Rose quartz is known for restoring harmony in the heart and is the stone of universal love, encouraging unconditional loving and compassion.