Gua sha is an ancient practice but has recently become more prevalent in Western beauty circles. And for a good reason! Gua sha (jade scraping) is a natural, non-invasive way to improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote lymphatic drainage. But how do you use it, and what is the best way to get the most out of your gua sha tool? Keep reading to learn more about gua sha.


What is Gua Sha?

Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique used for centuries. The word "gua sha" literally means "scraping." The method involves scraping the skin with a tool to promote blood flow and reduce inflammation. Gua sha has been used to treat various ailments, from chronic pain to respiratory issues, and is still used in traditional Chinese medicine today. However, generations of practitioners dating back to the Ming Dynasty have passed down this method. In recent years, gua sha has gained popularity as a natural but effective beauty treatment in the West.


What Does a Gua Sha Tool Do?

A gua sha tool is a flat, smooth stone, typically made of jade or rose quartz. It’s the preferred tool for jade scraping or gua sha, which involves gently scraping the skin to stimulate blood flow and promote lymphatic draining.

Some of the touted benefits of gua sha include:

      • • Reduces puffiness
      • • Smooths fine lines and wrinkles
      • • Promotes a more sculpted facial structure
      • • Improves collagen production
      • • Minimizes the look of undereye circles
      • • Temporarily tightens loose skin
      • • Increases the absorption of skincare products, making them more effective

One of the most extraordinary things about gua sha is that the results are apparent after the first gua sha facial. And the longer you keep up with treatments, the better your results will be.


How Should You Use the Perfect Cream?

1. Start with clean, dry skin. We recommend washing your face with a mild cleanser like Perfect Cleansing Foam.

2. Apply a facial oil or serum like Anti-Aging Oil to your skin. A facial oil will help the gua sha tool to glide smoothly across the skin.

3. Hold the tool at a 15-degree angle and gently scrape it across the skin, starting at the center of the face and moving outwards. Use light pressure, and be sure to avoid any areas of the skin that are inflamed or irritated.

There are a few key areas to focus on when using a gua sha tool. Start at the neck and work up to the jawline, using long strokes to promote lymphatic drainage. Next, move to the eye area, carefully avoiding the delicate skin around the eyes. Finally, move to the forehead, using upward strokes to lift the skin.

It’s important to note that everyone’s skin is different, so adjusting the pressure and frequency of your gua sha facial to fit your needs is essential. Start with a lighter touch and gradually increase the pressure as your skin becomes more accustomed to the technique.


How Often Should You Use a Gua Sha Tool?

To get the most out of your gua sha tool, it’s recommended to use it 2-3 times a week. Overusing the tool can lead to irritation or inflammation, so giving your skin time to rest in between sessions is essential.


Is Jade or Rose Quartz Better for Gua Sha?

If you’re a beauty fan, you’ve probably noticed both jade and quartz stones marketed as gua sha tools. But which is better?

Jade is the stone traditionally associated with gua sha. It’s favored because of its cooling properties, which help reduce inflammation and redness in the skin. Rose quartz, on the other hand, is believed to possess a soothing energy that promotes relaxation.

Both stones work well for gua sha. So, ultimately, the choice between jade and rose quartz comes down to personal preference.


What Is the Best Oil to Use with Gua Sha?

We cannot emphasize this enough: you must use a moisturizing product when doing a gua sha massage on your face. This is because the gua sha tool cannot glide along dry skin, and the tugging may irritate or damage your skin. But which serum or oil is best to use for gua sha?

We recommend an oil that’s lightweight and absorbs quickly, so it doesn’t leave a greasy residue on the skin. And if your intent in performing a gua sha massage is to reduce signs of aging, why not also choose an oil that promotes anti-aging? Our Anti-Aging Oil is packed with age-defying powerhouse ingredients like andiroba oil, camellia oil, rosehip oil, and 24K gold flakes. Anti-Aging Oil retextures and brightens the complexion while nourishing it with needed nutrients. And since it’s so deeply hydrating, applying a moisturizer after is optional.

Incorporating a gua sha tool into your skincare routine can be a natural, non-invasive way to improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote lymphatic drainage. Following the proper technique and using the right facial oil can enhance the benefits of a gua sha facial and face sculpting. Whether you choose a jade or rose quartz gua sha stone, start with a lighter touch and adjust the pressure to your skin's needs. Using a gua sha tool 2-3 times a week can help reduce puffiness, soften fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a brighter, more youthful complexion. As with any new skincare practice, be patient and consistent, and you'll soon discover the many benefits of gua sha.