What is Facial Gua Sha?
What is Facial Gua Sha?
Facial Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese skincare technique that has been gaining popularity in recent years for its ability to promote a youthful and radiant complexion. This technique, which is often performed with a small stone tool, involves gently massaging the face in a specific pattern to improve circulation, reduce puffiness, and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.
What are the Benefits?
The benefits of Facial Gua Sha go beyond just improving the appearance of the skin. The roots of this practice are deep in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and in this medicine we view the face as a reflection of the body's overall health, and believe that by treating the skin, we can also improve the balance of health in our bodies.
One of the key principles of TCM is the concept of Qi, or energy flow. When Qi is flowing freely throughout the body, we experience good health and vitality. However, when Qi becomes blocked, it can lead to a variety of health problems, including skin issues. Facial Gua Sha can release blockages and improve the flow of Qi throughout the body, promoting overall health and wellness. One of the ways Qi becomes blocked in the face is through tension patterns caused by repetitive movements – think squinting into the sun on your drive to work only to realize that when you look in the mirror at noon, your still furrowing your brow. By applying Gua Sha strokes to the skin you can release these patterns of tensions.
Facial Gua Sha also helps to stimulate the lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing toxins and waste from the body. By improving lymphatic flow, Facial Gua Sha can help to reduce puffiness, improve skin tone, and promote a healthy, glowing complexion.
In addition to its physical benefits, Facial Gua Sha is also a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The gentle massage motion of the tool feels soothing and can help to reduce stress and tension. If you’re looking to build on a morning mindfulness routine, or a wind-down nighttime routine, consider adding Gua Sha to the mix.
How do I Gua Sha Correctly?
It's important to note that you should get your Facial Gua Sha information and tutorials from a trained TCM professional. Recent popularity of this practice has led to it becoming disassociated from its traditional roots - not to mention that incorrect technique can cause bruising or irritation. A trained practitioner will be able to customize the treatment to your individual needs and skin concerns.
Facial Gua Sha is a powerful tool for promoting healthy, youthful skin and overall wellness. By combining the principles of TCM with the soothing and rejuvenating effects of massage, Facial Gua Sha can help to improve circulation, reduce puffiness, smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a radiant complexion.
To learn more about Gua Sha and cosmetic acupuncture follow along on Instagram @missmel_mac and @apricus_wellness.
You can schedule a cosmetic acupuncture treatment, where a Gua Sha massage is always included, at my Shuswap Clinic here.
I’ve also created an insanely gorgeous custom agate Gua Sha tool that you can pick up for use in your at home skincare routine. Click here to check it out.