Your skin is one of the first things people notice about you, so it's understandable that you want it to be in tip-top shape. One way people try to ward off fine lines and wrinkles? Scratching.
You probably know what a shave looks like, even if you've never heard the term before. It's a popular facial treatment that involves the use of flat crystals that are (gently) scraped on the skin. There are supposedly benefits to scraping: fans swear the technique makes your skin firmer, brighter, and less puffy.
But is this the same thing? What are the actual benefits of scraping? If there are any? And - find a friend here - how do you do gua sha? Dermatologists break it down.
What to remember if you're interested in gua sha
Gua sha can be intense. In fact, it usually involves applying pressure "to create minor skin bruising to aid blood flow and skin tightening.
If you're interested in long-term treatment for wrinkles or other skin conditions, gua sha is not a substitute for seeing a dermatologist. Most users claim the technique improves wrinkles, skin tone and reduces acne scars.
What are the potential benefits of Gua Sha facial massage for the skin?
1. Relaxes facial tension
It is believed that the friction created by the gua sha tool gliding over the skin "helps to break the adhesions between the muscles and connective tissue of the skin and helps to relieve muscle tension". When you feel stressed, your forehead or jaw tends to remain tense, and the relaxing nature of Gua Sha may help prevent wrinkles (as well as headaches and jaw pain) from forming in these areas later.
2. Reduce puffiness
The lymphatic system is the body's own bodyguard. It is part of the immune system and helps distribute good nutrients and white blood cells (infection-fighting agents) throughout the body, while also filtering out waste products such as bacteria, proteins and excess water through the lymphatic fluid.
3. Improves skin appearance
Because improved lymphatic drainage and circulation means that less waste is left under the surface, scraping can also translate into a clearer, brighter complexion. In addition, "stimulating the muscles with this technique helps deliver oxygen to the area. Anything that stimulates blood flow and oxygen to the skin can help with collagen production. This may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, and possibly reduce acne and hyperpigmentation.
4. boosts skincare efficacy
Scraping can enhance the absorption of creams, serums and facial oils by pressing the oil or product deeper into the skin. Theoretically, by increasing blood circulation, it can also improve the efficacy of skin care products.
