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Hello! Christine Byer here, and today I’m excited to dive into the world of Gua Sha, a practice that has been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine for over 4,000 years. Recently, it has skyrocketed in popularity, thanks in part to social media. If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok or Instagram, you’ve probably come across countless beauty gurus and skincare enthusiasts showcasing their Gua Sha routines. While I love the enthusiasm, I want to ensure we’re approaching this ancient technique with accuracy and care.
Let’s face it—some of the advice out there can be a little questionable, and I’m here to help you navigate it! My goal is to provide you with the best practices for incorporating Gua Sha into your skincare routine without risking irritation or aggravating underlying skin concerns. So grab your favorite Gua Sha tool, and let’s get started!
Gua Sha (or kerokan, as it’s known in Indonesia) is an element of traditional Chinese medicine that dates back to the Shanghan Lun, an ancient Chinese medical text. The practice of Gua Sha uses a face massage tool, like a smooth stone, to gently glide across and soothe the fascia. Fascia is a type of connective tissue located beneath the surface of the skin that gives your face its lift and tone.
As you age and move your face over time, fascia can begin to carry a lot of tension that restricts blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. When you incorporate facial contour massage like Gua Sha into your skincare routine, you can encourage the fascia to release. The result? Improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and a boost in collagen that rejuvenates the face!
When done properly, Gua Sha techniques can help release wrinkles and generally tired facial muscles, as well as bring hyaluronic acid to the surface of the skin to achieve a plumper, healthier complexion. Even just the act of massaging the face can have a lifting effect!
Despite the rich history of Gua Sha, many contemporary interpretations have strayed from traditional methods. Here are five common mistakes I see often, along with my expert tips for correcting them!
This is the most common mistake I see. While it might seem counterintuitive, the secret to Gua Sha is not to apply as much pressure as possible but to use a light touch. The key to fascia release and lymphatic drainage is to use very gentle strokes. The softer you massage, the deeper the release. Follow along with professional Gua Sha massage tutorials once per day to master the repeated, gentle movements.
One of the most critical aspects of skincare is hygiene. If you’re using a Gua Sha tool, make sure it’s clean! Jade stones, for example, are semi-porous and can harbor bacteria that may cause breakouts. I recommend opting for a tool like the ANMA device, made from high-grade acrylic, which is less likely to trap impurities.
Pro Tip: Always cleanse your Gua Sha tool before and after each use with a gentle cleanser. For added convenience, consider keeping your ANMA in the shower for a quick lymphatic massage while you wash up!
To get the best results from your Gua Sha tool, your skin needs to be properly moisturized. Massaging on dry skin can lead to pulling and irritation, which is the last thing you want. Always apply a serum or moisturizer before your Gua Sha session. The only exception to this is if you are new to Gua Sha. In that case, practicing on dry skin lightly (at first) can be beneficial to avoid pressing too deep. Just be cautious and listen to your skin!
Pro Tip: I recommend using the NeoGenesis Booster Serum. It’s lightweight, effective, and safe for use around the eyes—perfect for prepping your skin!
Once you’ve mastered the right pressure for Gua Sha, it’s crucial to ensure your skin is well-moisturized during your practice. Choosing the right slip and glide product is essential. While many people opt for essential oils, they can sometimes lead to irritation. Instead, focus on lightweight, nourishing facial oils or a gel hydrating mask like the Hydrate + Conduct, that will nourish without clogging your pores or causing any adverse reactions. A gentle ph-balanced cleanser, like the CBE Botanicals Clean + Gentle, is also a great option to keep your skin happy and healthy!
Pro Tip: Always patch test new products to ensure they work well with your skin type!
In our fast-paced world, we often expect instant results, especially when it comes to skincare. Unfortunately, achieving glowing skin takes time and consistency. Gua Sha is no exception—give it at least six weeks of regular practice to see the benefits.
Pro Tip: Consider taking before and after photos to track your progress. Seeing how your skin looks over time can motivate you to stick with your routine! Be sure to take them at the same angle and in the same lighting to see the results over time.
Q: Can Gua Sha help with specific skin concerns, like puffiness or fine lines?Yes, Gua Sha can be beneficial for issues like puffiness and fine lines. The gentle massage promotes lymphatic drainage and improves circulation, which can help reduce swelling and enhance skin tone. However, consistency is key for noticeable results!
Q: Can I use Gua Sha if I have sensitive skin? Yes, but it’s crucial to use gentle techniques and choose the right products. Always perform a patch test before introducing new oils or serums.
Q: How often should I do Gua Sha? I usually aim for 5 minutes a day in trouble spots. As your face releases, after a few weeks, 2-3 times per week as needed is good.
I hope this guide has helped clarify some common misconceptions about Gua Sha and given you the tools you need to elevate your skincare routine. Remember, my goal at Christine Byer Esthetics is to empower you to make informed choices for your skin.
For those of you looking for additional support, I invite you to join the Christine Byer Beauty Club. As a licensed esthetician with over two decades of experience, I share expert tips and tricks tailored to your unique skincare needs. Plus, you can try the club for free for 14 days! That means full access to personalized advice, and exclusive savings. Why wait? Come join us!
Trying to keep our skin healthy and glowing is a lifelong process. It protects us, shields us, and defines us in a lot of ways! But every layer of the skin acts as our armor in a different way. On the very top, we all have a "skin barrier" that requires its own care for long-term health.
