In a world full of skin treatments and tools, there are some that are invasive and non-invasive. In this blog, we will discuss Gua Sha (GWAH SHAH), a non-invasive skincare tool that has natural benefits for the skin and body.
Gua Sha, a traditional Chinese medicine technique, has been known for its benefits to the face and body for over 700 years. Gua Sha uses a gentle scraping motion with a smooth-edged tool to help stimulate the circulation of the soft tissue, promoting the flow of blood to the treated areas. This technique is typically used with a gemstone, usually jade or quartz, to promote natural benefits within the skin. At Chateau Glow, we use a stainless steel Gua Sha tool. Why did we choose a stainless steel tool for our studio? Stainless steel is anti-microbial and non-porous, which prevents bacteria that can transfer to your skin. Another plus, it holds less heat than a jade or quartz tool, which traditionally tends to warm up shortly after using it. Our Gua Sha tool, stays cold for a little while longer, helping to calm and cool the skin while the treatment is being performed.
Now on to our top 4 benefits of Gua Sha!
Promoting Blood Circulation:
One of the amazing benefits of Gua Sha is the ability to enhance blood circulation throughout the body. The gentle scraping motion helps the flow of blood to the treated areas. Improved blood circulation brings many advantages to the skin and body including better oxygen to the tissues, quicker healing, and enhanced nutrient delivery to cells. Those who Gua Sha daily can also experience a radiant, healthy glow.
Encouraging Lymphatic Drainage:
The lymphatic system plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system and removing waste from the body. Gua Sha helps to promote lymphatic drainage by stimulating the lymphatic system within the skin. The scraping action helps to release built-up toxins and stagnant fluids, allowing the lymphatic system to function appropriately. This helps supports immune health but also helps to reduce inflammation and to sculpt and depuff the face overall!
Sculpts Facial Muscles:
Gua Sha's gentle scraping motion is not only promotes blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, but also helps to sculpt the facial muscles. This treatment allows you to sculpt and tone facial muscles, providing a non-invasive alternative to more invasive beauty treatments like Microcurrent or Ultherapy. The controlled strokes of the Gua Sha tool work to lift and tighten the skin, contributing to a more defined and contoured cheeks and jawbones. Gua Sha can be done at home and by a professional including an esthetician, acupuncturist or physical therapist.
Alleviating Muscle Tension:
A common response to stress includes holding tension in our face, neck and shoulders. A more natural way to destress? Gua Sha! By gently breaking down knots in the fascia (the connective tissue surrounding our muscles) with a light scraping motion, this helps to relieve muscle tightness and discomfort. Many experience immediate relief from muscle tightness and stiffness after a Gua Sha treatment, making it desired for those seeking natural and non-invasive pain management.
How to Gua Sha:
This at home routine is very simple and only requires a few steps! First, make sure your skin is clean and make up free. Next, grab your favorite Gua Sha tool and facial oil. You never want to Gua Sha on dry skin, as it will be uncomfortable and requires a good slip to help stimulate the tissue. Now you're ready to get started!
To start, hold the tool at a 30 to 45-degree angle, and use gentle scraping motions. If it hurts, you’re using too much pressure. As a rule of thumb, all movements should be upward and out, following the lymphatic flow. Repeat each movement 3-5 times before moving onto the next area of your skin. Remember, keep the movements nice and slow. If you feel your skin pulling, you may need to add some more oil.
Start at your chin and outward on your jawline. Then move on to your cheeks working your way outwards toward the ear, then up to your undereyes. Once near the undereyes, start in the corner of the eye and outwards towards the temple. Then on to the forehead, and divide it into 3 sections.
There you have it - you are now a Gua Sha pro! If you are ever unsure if the movements are being done property, there are many youtube videos explaining the steps! Gua Sha has shown to be a timeless, non-invasive approach to skincare. By incorporating this technique into your routine, you gain the many benefits of enhanced circulation, lymphatic drainage, sculpting facial muscles, tension relief. Happy sculpting!