What is Face Gua Sha?

Gua sha is a natural, alternative healing technique that started in China thousands of years ago. Gua sha literally means ‘scraping sand’, it is done on the back, neck, arms, legs and buttocks. It moves Qi, the body’s natural energy and stagnant blood to the top of the skin to reduce inflammation in the body. Mild bruising, called ‘sha’ or ‘sand’ occurs after a gua sha session. Face gua sha, on the other hands, is a much gentler version, and it does not leave any bruising on the face.

What Are The Benefits of Face Gua Sha?

A more radiant complexion
Face gua sha increases circulation and lymphatic flow in your face. With increased blood flow and better removal of toxins from your face, your skin looks glowing and more radiant. Furthermore, by stimulating blood circulation, more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the skin, which improves skin health. A healthier skin is a better looking skin.

A firmer skin

Face gua sha, when combined with the stimulation of certain acupoints on your face, can relieve your tight facial muscles and tighten the skin, leaving you with a more lifted, firmer looking face. 

Face Gua Sha and Wrinkles   

Face gua sha is not likely to have a direct effect on your wrinkles. Face gua sha is not able to reach the derma layer of the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Face gua sha, like all other massages, can improve your skin’s absorption of skincare products deeper into the skin. 

How to Do Face Gua Sha On Your Face? 

Choose a suitable face gua sha tool. There are different materials, you can choose between jade, rose quartz, buffalo horn or obsidian. To prevent hurting your skin, face gua sha should always be done on a well oiled face. You can use a moisturiser or a facial oil.

• Start from your chin with light, gentle upward strokes to the back of your ears. 
• Continue with from the end of your lips to the side of your ears. 
• Then from the side of your nose, over your cheekbones to the side of your temples. 
• Continue underneath your eyes, the pressure should be lighter than the rest of your face.  
• Stroke up on your forehead. 
• End with downward strokes from the top to the bottom of your neck. 

Who Is Not Suitable For Face Gua Sha  

Due to the gentle strokes, face gua sha is suitable for most skin types. Those with acne skin should avoid face gua sha, this is to avoid excessive massage and the spread of bacteria all over the face.