While there's no doubt that Korean and Japanese beauty (affectionately known as K- and J-Beauty) are now growing in popularity, the beauty world has also rediscovered its love for Chinese beauty.
Starting with Chinese tea infused with herbs and powders, the beauty world has been witnessing the rise of the crystal roller fueled by Instagram - a tool used to massage the face for cleaner, healthier skin.
Next came the scraping tool.
An angled stone - often made of crystal, bone or horn - the tool is used to firmly scrape the facial skin to promote blood flow and redirect energy. Claiming to have brighter, improved skin and a "natural facelift," the tool has been plucked from the history books and has hit the top shelves of beauty enthusiasts everywhere.
But before we rub our faces with stones in the name of self-care, we thought we'd look a little deeper to see if that's really the case.
What is Gua Sha?
Gua Sha is actually an ancient Chinese practice of energy flow and blood circulation. The technique can be used on the whole body and is traditionally very powerful - using a flat tool, the skin is scraped until it is red.
But this new trend revived is a gentler form. Using a smaller version of the tool - made of crystals that are safe for the body and chakras - firm pressure is applied to the face, scraping the skin in long strokes.
The end result of the exercise is improved skin. Blood circulation, lymphatic drainage and skin elasticity are improved, while problems such as muscle tension and wrinkles are reduced.
Is Gua Sha safe?
Yes! While we do not recommend doing a strong full body version on your own, it is safe to perform a facial at home.
Does Gua Sha really work?
As with all cosmetic treatments, there is a degree of skepticism about Gua Sha. We mean, why spend a few minutes a day rubbing stones on your face if it doesn't actually help at all?
Fortunately, there are a few studies that prove the results. Most of them agree that consistent use of the tool helps improve microcirculation (some studies show an increase of up to 400%) and the flow of blood to the face.
Does scraping hurt?
If used properly, the scraping tool should not cause harm. After all, you have to determine the pressure to use and apply the pressure to the skin. If your skin is irritated or painful, reduce the pressure or stop using it altogether.
How does Gua Sha work?
Although you can do without it, most practitioners recommend using facial oil beforehand to smooth the skin. Holding the tool at a 45 degree angle, scrape the skin in an upward and outward motion. Start in the center of the face and move around. For best results, try doing this for about one to three minutes a day.
However, unlike crystal rollers, the scraping tool should not be cold. Cold tends to constrict blood vessels, which is the exact opposite of what you want. Skip the fridge.
