What is gua sha?
Let’s start at the beginning. Gua sha (pronounced “gwa shah”) originated in China hundreds of years ago and is the practice of using a tool to scrape skin to relieve muscle pain and tension. It was performed on the body to treat soreness and inflammation, often resulting in redness and bruising. More recently, the practice has been adopted to facial massage. The good news is that the benefits of scraping can be had without the harshness of bruising when practiced on the face!
Why do I need gua sha facial massage in my life?
There are so many benefits of qua sha facial massage! Increased blood circulation is one, and so important for replenishing the oxygen supply in your muscles and skin. Besides oxygen, blood brings nutrients and proteins to your skin cells, while removing carbon dioxide and waste. Improving blood circulation results in glowing, radiant skin.
Gua sha facial massage also breaks up fascia, which is the connective tissue between your muscles and skin. This relieves muscle tension which relaxes, tones, and lifts the muscles in your face. This process can soften fine wrinkles and boost elasticity in your face. Who couldn’t use some natural anti-aging in their life?
Massaging your skin also helps drain fluid from your face. Gua sha facial massage aids lymphatic drainage, which means it moves lymphatic fluid (and toxins!) back into your cardiovascular system to be disposed of by your body naturally. This helps to regenerate tissues and reduce bloat and puffiness. The result is healthy, vibrant skin!
How do I add gua sha to my skincare routine?
There are many tools available for gua sha facial massage. Choose one that is comfortable to hold and use. TruSelf Organics offers a rose quartz Gua Sha Facial Massage Tool that is a comfortable weight and shape. Next, make sure your face is clean and moisturized. For best results, apply a face oil to help the gua sha tool glide over your skin. The massage will also allow the nutrients in the face oil to be absorbed better into your skin. To make it easy for you, TruSelf Organics has an Anti-Aging Facial Massage Kit, which includes the Gua Sha Facial Massage Tool and Forever Glow Face Oil. The Forever Glow Face Oil is loaded with plant oils rich with vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids – another benefit for your skin’s health!
Once your face is cleansed, moisturized, and oiled, you’re ready to start your gua sha facial massage. Hold the tool at a 15 degree angle and while applying gentle pressure, move the tool upward and outward as shown here.
You can go over each area one to two times. For best results, use daily for 2-5 minutes. That’s it! When finished, wash your tool with mild soap and water. (Bonus pro tip: Put your tool in the refrigerator or run under cold water before use for enhanced soothing and inflammation reduction.)
Gua sha facial massage is quick and easy – and has so many benefits for the health of your skin. Invest a few minutes a day to take care of your beautiful face!
