BLOG 268: THE 5 GUA SHA TIPS YOU NEED TO KNOW TODAY FOR GREAT SKIN
May 22, 2024
I have been using and teaching Gua Sha for decades. As well as integrating this into my Face Yoga teachings and personal practice, I have created an accredited teacher training course with fellow experts Katie Brindle and Katie Blake. Gua Sha, an ancient healing technique with roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a powerful tool for promoting holistic health, natural skin rejuvenation, and wellness in our daily life. Let’s delve into the rich history of Gua Sha, its application in TCM, its use in aesthetics and wellness, and essential tips for incorporating it into your beauty routine.
Origins and History
Gua Sha, which translates to "scraping away fever" in Chinese, traces its origins back thousands of years to ancient China. Initially used as a folk remedy for alleviating various ailments, Gua Sha evolved into a sophisticated healing practice within TCM. Historically, practitioners utilised smooth-edged tools made from jade, horn, or stone to scrape the skin, releasing stagnation, improving circulation, and promoting the body's innate healing processes.
Application in Traditional Chinese Medicine
In TCM, Gua Sha is used to address imbalances in the body's qi (life force energy) and blood circulation, which are believed to underlie many health conditions. By gently scraping the skin with a Gua Sha tool, it can stimulate microcirculation, release tension, and promote the flow of qi and blood, thereby restoring balance and vitality to the body. Gua Sha is commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, detoxify the body, and enhance overall well-being. It is also used as a beauty tool for glowing healthy skin.
Modern Adaptations Of Gua Sha
In recent years, Gua Sha has experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks to its efficacy and versatility in promoting skin health and beauty. The aesthetics and wellness industry have embraced Gua Sha as a natural alternative to invasive procedures, enjoying its rejuvenating effects for facial sculpting, lymphatic drainage, and anti-ageing treatments. Gua Sha tools made from rose quartz and clear quartz are two of my favourites. They both have the added benefit of crystal healing properties as you move them along your skin. The rose quartz is particularly beneficial for boosting self love, great for morning use and wonderful for sensitive skin. The clear quartz is great for evening use, reducing signs of stress on the skin and is widely known as the ‘master healer’ crystal. These are both available from my website shop.
How to Use Gua Sha
To reap the benefits of Gua Sha in your holistic health and beauty routine, follow these essential steps:
- Begin by cleansing your face and applying a facial oil or serum such as Fusion by Danielle Collins Pro Lift Moisturising Serum to create a smooth surface for Gua Sha.
- Choose a Gua Sha tool made from high-quality ethically sourced rose quartz, jade or clear quartz, ensuring smooth edges and comfortable handling.
- Hold the Gua Sha tool at a 15- to 45-degree angle against your skin and gently ‘scrape’ in upward and outward motions, following the contours of your face and neck. Use light to moderate pressure, avoiding areas of sensitivity or broken skin.
- Target areas prone to tension, puffiness, and fine lines, such as the jawline, cheeks, forehead, and under-eye area. Pay special attention to acupressure points and lymphatic drainage pathways for enhanced results.
- Incorporate Gua Sha into your skincare routine 2-3 times per week for optimal results. Consistency is key to maximising the benefits of this practice over time.
Contraindications and Precautions
While Gua Sha is generally safe and well-tolerated, there are certain contraindications and precautions to consider:
- Avoid Broken Skin: Do not use Gua Sha over areas of active acne, sunburn, or other skin irritations. Wait until the skin has healed before resuming Gua Sha practice.
- Gentle Pressure: Exercise caution when applying pressure, especially on delicate areas like the under-eye area. Start with light pressure and gradually increase as tolerated.
- Consultation: If you have a pre-existing medical condition or are pregnant, consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating Gua Sha into your routine.
- Hygiene: Cleanse your Gua Sha tool with soap and water after each use to prevent bacterial growth and maintain hygiene.
