Gua sha is the latest buzzword in the skincare space and a tool that is literally in everyone’s shopping cart. When you break down the term, gua translates to ‘scrape’ and sha translates to ‘sand’. Gua sha finds its roots in the Chinese medicinal tradition, and the technique is considered to be supremely effective to achieve healthy and firm skin. Not many know that initially, the technique was used to cure bodily ailments, and the beauty benefits were discovered gradually.
Why Is It So Popular?
The tool is eminently beneficial to the skin in many ways than you can think. Apart from sculpting and contouring the face, using a gua sha regularly promotes blood flow and circulation, which helps boost collagen production. This, in turn, renders a more youthful appearance to the skin, letting it glow from within. The technique also curtails inflammation and tightens the skin. Besides, it helps with lymphatic drainage to get rid of excess fluids and toxins. Thus, it is suited for all skin types, including acne-prone skin.
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Different Types Of Materials
Jade: Trust the good old jade to promote positivity and calmness while reducing puffiness and releasing a cooling sensation on the skin.
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Rose Quartz: The pretty pink stone representing love has excellent anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.
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Metal: Don’t underestimate the capabilities of this non-crystal variant. It de-stresses the skin and has anti-ageing properties while boosting lymphatic drainage.
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Amethyst: Unhappy with your pores? Amethyst to the rescue. The attractive-looking stone is therapeutic for the skin and tightens the pores.
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Black Obsidian: Let this stone detoxify your skin and eliminate any negative energy as you give yourself a relaxing facial massage.
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How To Use A Gua Sha?
– Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and make sure the gua sha is clean too. PS: You can refrigerate the tool beforehand to boost its cooling effect.
– Start by applying a face oil or face serum that suits your skin the best to create a smooth surface.
– Glide the flat side of the tool across your neck in an upward motion. A standardised movement for the tool is glide and wiggle.
– Next, take the curved side of the tool and swipe it across the jawline in an upward motion.
– Use the same curved side on your cheeks as well with minimal pressure.
– Lastly, glide the flat side of the tool on your forehead starting from above your eyebrows towards your hairline.
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How To Care For Your Gua Sha?
Gua sha is made up of fragile crystals, which makes it prone to breakage. Hence, handle it very carefully and be gentle while using it on the face. Make sure you wash the gua sha after every use with mild soap and water, pat it dry and place it in the refrigerator to let it cool or store it in a dry and cool place. It’s a good idea to retain the packaging box that will keep your gua sha in the best condition and increase the tool’s life. Never glide a wet gua sha on your face.
