Step by step: Learn to Use the Gua Sha Technique with a Jade Stone for a Facial Massage

The Gua Sha stone: the new trend for skin care

We have witnessed how the Gua Sha technique has gone from being a therapy used in traditional Chinese medicine to becoming the latest trend in the world of beauty. Its name translates to "skin scraping" because its goal is to improve the appearance of the skin, relieve muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and promote circulation through gentle scraping movements. In this blog, we will explain everything you need to know about this technique that promises to revitalize the face, reduce wrinkles and promote relaxation.

What is the Gua Sha technique and how is it used?

The Gua Sha technique: a traditional Chinese therapy turned viral trend

The Gua Sha technique, which originated in China 2,000 years ago, is part of a comprehensive beauty protocol aimed at achieving long-term beauty stability. It is used with a jade or quartz tool to gently massage the face in specific movements. With a significant number of social media posts showcasing its benefits, the Gua Sha technique has sparked a lot of interest in the anti-aging skincare routine.

Benefits for the skin when using the Gua Sha technique

The Gua Sha technique has numerous benefits, including promoting lymphatic drainage, stimulating blood circulation, relaxing facial muscles, and reducing tension and related wrinkles. It is emphasized that results may be subtle and not immediate, and gentle and careful application is required to avoid damaging the skin.

Incorporating the Gua Sha technique into your beauty routine

Recommended use of the Gua Sha technique in daily facial cleansing

To make the most of the benefits of the Gua Sha technique, it is recommended to incorporate it into your daily facial cleansing routine. This involves using the Gua Sha tool after cleansing your face, preferably with a gentle cleanser appropriate for your skin type.

How to combine the Gua Sha technique with serums and essential oils

Combining the Gua Sha technique with appropriate serums and essential oils can enhance the benefits of facial massage, improve nutrient absorption and promote healthy, radiant skin. Here are some specific recommendations for different types of oils and their benefits:

1. Jojoba Oil : This oil is known for its ability to balance the skin's sebum production, making it ideal for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. Jojoba oil is easily absorbed without clogging pores, and its light texture makes it easy for the Gua Sha tool to glide smoothly over the skin.
2. Rosehip Oil : Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, rosehip oil is excellent for cell regeneration and skin repair. It is ideal for dry, mature or scarred skin, as it helps improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
3. Sweet Almond Oil : This oil is gentle and nourishing, making it ideal for sensitive or dehydrated skin. Sweet almond oil helps soothe irritation, deeply hydrate the skin and improve elasticity. It is also suitable for use around the eyes to reduce puffiness and dark circles.
4. Argan Oil : Known as "liquid gold," argan oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, making it a powerful moisturizer and antioxidant. It is ideal for all skin types, but especially beneficial for mature or sun-damaged skin. Argan oil helps soften the skin, reduce inflammation and promote a radiant complexion.
5. Fractionated Coconut Oil : This light, non-comedogenic oil is ideal for all skin types, especially dry or sensitive skin. Fractionated coconut oil absorbs easily without leaving a greasy feel, and helps hydrate and soften skin. It is also rich in lauric acid, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Lavender Oil : In addition to its relaxing aroma, lavender oil has calming and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated or sensitive skin. Mixing a few drops of lavender oil with your favorite carrier oil can help improve relaxation and well-being during a Gua Sha facial massage.

Recommended movements and areas for facial massage with Gua Sha

Detailed instructions to perform the facial massage with the jade stone Gua Sha

Step 1: Preparation

• Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water to remove any makeup, dirt, or oil residue.
• Apply a little of your favorite facial cream or oil to your face and neck so that the jade Gua Sha tool glides smoothly over your skin.
• Optionally, you can put the jade Gua Sha tool in the refrigerator for a few minutes to cool down, which will help reduce swelling and soothe the skin.

Step 2: Basic Movements

• Start in the center of your face, at the top of the bridge of your nose, and gently slide the jade Gua Sha tool out and up along your jawline.
• Repeat this motion several times on each side of your face to help drain excess fluid and reduce swelling.
• Next, move to the cheek area and glide the tool from the center of your face outward and up along the cheekbone. This can help define the contours of the face and improve circulation.
• Continue with gentle, upward strokes across your forehead, starting in the center and moving outward and upward. This can help relax facial muscles and reduce expression lines.

Step 3: Specific Areas

• To focus on the under-eye area, use the smallest, softest part of the jade Gua Sha tool. Gently glide from the inner corner of the eye toward the temple to help reduce puffiness and dark circles.
• If you want to work on your jawline and neck, use the flat edge of the jade Gua Sha tool. Glide from your jaw down to your collarbone in upward motions to tone and define this area.
• Don't forget to also massage your neck, as it can build up tension. Use the jade Gua Sha tool to gently massage the neck in upward motions to relieve tension and improve circulation.

Step 4: Completion

• After completing the facial massage with the jade Gua Sha tool, be sure to clean it with warm water and mild soap.
• Apply your favorite moisturizer or facial serum to keep your skin nourished and hydrated after the massage.

Subtle, long-term results from regular use of the Gua Sha technique

It is important to note that the results of the Gua Sha technique can be subtle and long-term. By using this technique regularly and consistently, it is possible to achieve improvements in the appearance of the skin, reduce tension and promote a more relaxed appearance.

Precautions and care to take into account when using the Gua Sha technique

It is essential to take certain precautions and care into account when using the Gua Sha technique. Its use is not recommended in cases of recent trauma or cuts, during pregnancy or in certain specific medical conditions. It's important to prioritize safety and health when incorporating any new technique into your skincare routine.

Recommendations and tools to incorporate the Gua Sha technique into your beauty routine

Types of Gua Sha that we recommend

1. Green Jade Gua Sha Tool : Green jade is known for its calming and balancing properties. This tool is excellent for reducing swelling, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation. Green jade is also said to have healing and energizing properties, making it a popular skincare choice.
2. Rose Quartz Gua Sha Tool : Rose quartz is known as the stone of love and healing. This tool is ideal for calming sensitive skin, reducing inflammation and promoting emotional harmony. Rose quartz is also believed to have anti-aging properties, making it an excellent choice for facial massage.
3. Black Obsidian Gua Sha Tool : Black obsidian is a volcanic stone that is said to have powerful protective and purifying properties. This tool is ideal for clearing negative energy, improving circulation and promoting cell renewal. Black obsidian is also said to have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties, making it an excellent choice for acne-prone skin care.
4. Amethyst Gua Sha Tool : Amethyst is known for its calming and purifying properties. This tool is excellent for calming irritated skin, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Amethyst is also said to have anti-aging properties and promote mental clarity, making it an excellent choice for facial massage.
5. Buffalo Horn Gua Sha Tool : Buffalo horn is known for its strength and durability. This tool is ideal for deeper, more stimulating massages as the buffalo horn can apply more pressure than stone tools. Buffalo horn is also said to have therapeutic and energy-balancing properties, making it an excellent skin care option.
6. Clear Quartz Gua Sha Tool : Clear quartz is known as the stone of clarity and positive energy. This tool is excellent for revitalizing dull skin, improving circulation and promoting cell renewal. Clear quartz is also said to have purifying and energy-balancing properties, making it an excellent choice for facial massage.
7. White Marble Gua Sha Tool : White marble is known for its beauty and elegance. This tool is ideal for soothing irritated skin, reducing swelling, and promoting relaxation. White marble is also said to have cooling and revitalizing properties, making it an excellent skincare option.

How to maximize the benefits of the Gua Sha stone to notice real results?

To maximize the benefits of the Gua Sha technique, it is important to use appropriate serums and oils that complement the facial massage. Here are some specific recommendations to maximize the effectiveness of this technique:

1. Choose high-quality serums and oils : Opt for high-quality facial serums and oils that are formulated with natural and skin-beneficial ingredients. Look for ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, nourishing plant oils, and botanical extracts to help hydrate, rejuvenate, and protect skin.
2. Apply the serum or oil before the massage : Before starting the facial massage with the Gua Sha technique, apply a thin layer of serum or oil to your face and neck. This will help the Gua Sha tool glide smoothly over the skin, avoiding unnecessary friction and pulling.
3. Use the right serum or oil for your skin type : Consider your skin type when choosing the right facial serum or oil. For example, if you have dry skin, you can opt for a facial oil rich in essential fatty acids to provide intense hydration. If you have acne-prone skin, look for lightweight, non-comedogenic serums that help balance sebum production and combat blemishes.
4. Massage with upward and outward movements : When performing facial massage with the Gua Sha technique, be sure to follow gentle, upward and outward movements to promote blood circulation, drain lymphatic fluids and stimulate cell renewal. The serum or oil will act as a lubricant to facilitate these movements and enhance the benefits of the massage.
5. Focus on specific areas : Use the serum or oil to target specific areas of the face you want to treat, such as fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, puffiness around the eyes, or dullness. Apply an additional amount of serum or oil to these areas before massaging with the Gua Sha tool for more effective results.
6. Repeat the process regularly : For optimal results, incorporate the Gua Sha technique with appropriate serums and oils into your facial care routine on a regular basis. Perform facial massage several times a week to keep your skin toned, radiant and healthy in the long term.

Frequent questions

How effective is Gua Sha stone?

The Gua Sha stone can be effective in improving the appearance of the skin, reducing muscle tension and promoting circulation. However, it is important to note that results may vary depending on each person and their skin care routine.

When does Gua Sha start to be noticed?

The results of the Gua Sha technique may vary for each person. Some people may notice subtle changes immediately, while others may require regular, consistent use to appreciate results. As we mentioned above, the Gua Sha technique takes a long-term approach to achieving long-lasting beauty stability.