Scraping tools come in many different shapes and sizes designed to fit different parts of the face and body.
Scraping tools come in different variants in the shape of hearts, moons and rectangles. Some have comb-like edges, sharp edges, curled edges and concave surfaces to fit different areas of the face. There are also scrapes designed for special, specific functions, such as the knobby 'mushroom' scrapes for the eye area and the longer stick-shaped acupressure scrapes.
Either tool features gently rounded edges that won't damage the skin. In addition to the varied shapes, you'll notice that the scraping tools are made of various types of materials, including pink crystal, turquoise, jade, obsidian, glass, and even wood. The idea is that each stone has a unique therapeutic purpose.
Benefits of Gua Sha
Avid Gua Sha practitioners agree that there are two core benefits to Gua Sha: physical and spiritual.
Physically, gua sha can brighten skin tone, contour and shape, and diminish wrinkles and fine lines, and some say it can help relieve TMJ, headaches and sinus pressure.
Gua sha tools can help reduce inflammation and puffiness by compressing facial massage. It can also help with microcirculation of lymphatic drainage in the facial aesthetic subunits. This is especially true for the dark circle areas in the morning, which can reduce puffiness because interstitial fluid can build up in these areas overnight when lying flat.
As for the spiritual benefits, any type of self-care practice can become a ritual for you. Performing scraping has solidified my spirituality and inner self-care. When I include this ritual, I feel balanced as part of my skincare regime; I breathe and clear through these techniques.
How to use Gua Sha
Ready to use the Gua Sha tools like a true professional? It's a relatively simple process that anyone can do.
Step 1: Clean and toned skin
It is best to perform the shave on clean skin. If using a toner, apply it after cleansing your face. Also, make sure your hands and the tools themselves are clean. You only need a drop of cleanser and water.
Step 2: Apply facial oil
Apply a generous amount of facial oil to your face, neck and chest. The oil will help the tool glide more easily, but if you prefer a cream or water-based lotion that will work too. Please note that you may need to reapply more throughout the process.
Step 3: Scraping
You are now ready to begin the actual scraping exercise. Hold the tool at a 30 to 45 degree angle and very gently pull/scrape it over the skin. As a rule, all movements should be upward and follow the lymphatic flow. Repeat each movement three to five times before moving to the next area of the skin.
