If you've been using Instagram or TikTok (or just haven't been living under a rock), then you've probably noticed that one of the oldest beauty tools is taking over the world, one contoured face at a time. Yes, we're talking about shaving.
Fans of the tool report real, dramatic results, such as firmer, smoother skin and fewer wrinkles, acne, blemishes and eczema. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, we consulted with experts in skincare and herbal medicine practices to find out the most effective ways to use your gadgets for optimal results.
So, if you are looking for real changes that you can see, such as tighter skin or enhanced results without injectables (it is often called the BOTOX of the East), you should really invest in scraping stones and commit to the practice. So, without further delay, read on for all the information you need to know about facial gua sha.
What is Gua Sha?
"Facial Gua Sha is a relatively new 'beauty' therapy derived from traditional gua sha, performed on the body, and is an important technique in Chinese medicine," says acupuncturist and herbalist Dr. Sandra Lanshin Chiu, and founder of the healing studio Lanshin. "Facial gua sha uses a smooth tool, usually jade or quartz, to slowly stroke the face and neck to improve circulation and release tension."
Chiu adds that the practice dates back a long time - some records indicate as early as the Paleolithic. "Historically, tools were made from various types of materials, such as stones, coins and horns. Scraping was used to treat serious pain and illnesses like cholera," Chiu said. Today, she adds, Chinese medicine still uses gua sha to "treat pain and enhance immune function.
"The technique of gua sha, which translates to 'scraping the wind,' was originally used primarily to release toxins from the body and relieve tired, sore or injured muscles from pain," says Anna Lam of Ginger Chi, a natural boutique in New York. York has its own line of scraping tools and jade rollers. "By repeatedly tapping 'scraping' on the surface of the skin, gua sha helps stimulate new blood flow and eliminate stagnation in problem areas, which helps produce metabolic cell repair and healing," Lam says.
But don't be afraid, because while traditional body scraping methods are more aggressive and can lead to bruising, Chiu says facial scraping should be done at a slower pace and with less pressure. In fact, she says to take a "less is more approach" when it comes to your face.
How is Gua Sha different from other tools?
According to Chiu, the stroke applied during a gua sha session stretches the skin, which leads to myofascial release (relaxation of the facial muscles and improved circulation).
Now using a jade roller does have some benefits, such as more effective product penetration, lymphatic circulation and overall relaxation. But the jade roller is a very simple tool - the jade roller has only one shape and one action.
On the other hand, scraping has a unique shape and different edges that, when used correctly, can contour the face, improve circulation, penetrate products and relax tense muscles. Its benefits come from the movement, not the material.
The scraper is used "in a stroking motion over the curvature of the face, trying to bring new blood to the surface and promote lymphatic drainage," Lam says. "Scraping relaxes tension in the facial muscles, which can lead to wrinkles. It's kind of like exercising your face - used regularly, scraping tones the skin and increases its elasticity."
