While the words "jade scraping" or "gua sha" may be new to you, facial techniques actually date back centuries. "[Facial scraping] techniques are based on an ancient healing technique called gua sha, which first appeared in a classic work of Chinese medicine called Shan Han Lun in 220 AD," says Peters. "Originally, practitioners wanted to get 'sha' - the redness that encourages the skin to repair itself," he explains. "After studying the Japanese and Chinese traditions, I applied this early technique to my facials. Obviously, I don't use it that hard - I've seen it expressed with a coin in China."
"[Gua sha] was originally a body treatment that was later adapted [to be] used for facial treatments, and the scraping motion evolved into a gentler gliding technique," she explains, adding that gua sha is a way to promote lymphatic drainage, which helps eliminate bloating caused by interstitial fluid (fluid trapped under the skin that needs to be released into the lymphatic system). In other words, gua sha is good for you - and can have some additional benefits for your appearance.
Benefits of Gua Sha
While modern jade scraping may be less invasive, it can still produce some impressive results.
Stimulates circulation: A pilot study found that scraping can stimulate circulation in targeted areas. Anecdotal evidence has found that it can also help alleviate the appearance of cellulite by reducing fluid retention - although there is not enough scientific evidence to support this.
Helps produce collagen: Anecdotal evidence suggests that gua sha can help the body produce more collagen, which can help reduce puffiness and lighten fine lines and wrinkles, thus brightening the complexion.
Reduces inflammation: Science has found that gua sha can help temporarily relieve pain and tightness in certain areas of the body - and can even have a lasting effect. These studies show that gua sha has an effect on inflammation (which often causes pain).
Reducing dark circles: By helping to soften fine lines and stimulate collagen, gua sha can help reduce dark circles (at least temporarily) and temporarily tighten the skin.
Sculpting facial muscles: Gua Sha is used on the chin and cheekbone areas to help relax tight facial muscles and give the face a more defined look. It will not eliminate a double chin (it does not target fat), but it can help relieve puffiness in the short term.
How to use Gua Sha
So how do you get the benefits of gua sha at home? "There are so many different types and shapes of shaving tools that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to how to use shaving," explains Tobiah. That said, all methods of the facial scraping process have some basic principles. According to Dr. Nazarian, the best approach is to apply gentle pressure and "stroke the skin evenly, preferably in the direction of lymphatic flow.
