what is gua sha?
Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that has been around for centuries. 'Gua' means 'scrape' and 'Sha' means 'sand'.
It is a technique whereby tools, usually made from jade, bone or horn are used to scrape across the skin on the body to redirect energy flow. In doing this, stagnant energy is broken down, reducing inflammation, increasing blood flow and stimulating the lymphatic system to promote healing in the body. It’s a simple but rigorous technique which has been used for centuries to treat a range of ailments including muscle pain, tension, inflammation and migraines.
More recently Gua Sha has been adopted as a common skin care practice to address re-energizing of the facial tissues. Whilst the application tends to be less intense than traditional body work, the lighter pressure along with accessing of pressure points helps to promote skin regeneration.
types of gua sha stones
Gua Sha stones are commonly available in Jade, Rose Quartz and Black Obsidian.
Jade is known as the healing stone that invites good health, promotes over all well-being, and has been known to reduce stress and anxiety. Great for all skins.
Rose Quartz is known as the stone of love. It is known to promote self-love and inner healing and feelings of peace. It is balancing on the tissues and promotes regeneration. This is a great option for ageing skin concerns.
Black Obsidian is thought to be a strongly protective stone, forming a shield against negativity and absorbs negative energies from the environment. Obsidian also draws out mental stress and tension. This stone can be a good option for congested and breakout prone skins.
Gua Sha stones are typically cool to the touch, this cooling action helps with brightening your complexion, reducing puffiness and stimulating lymphatic drainage.
when to use gua sha
- Prep
- Treat – Gua Sha with a serum
- Glow
The best time to use your Gua Sha in your at-home regimen is at the treat step. Prep your skin by double cleansing and exfoliating.
Continue onto the treat step by applying your favourite Dermalogica serum and work over with your Gua Sha technique.
Our Dermalogica top picks to use alongside your Gua Sha are Retinol Clearing Oil for breakout prone skin, Phyto Nature Firming Serum for ageing concerns, Melting Moisture Masque for dryness and Smart Response Serum to address multiple skin concerns at once.
Complete your regimen by applying your moisturiser (and SPF if in the day) to hydrate, protect and glow.
The Dermalogica Gua Sha technique uses warming movements, which takes inspiration from traditional Gua Sha techniques of skin scraping and incorporates specific acupressure points to help re-energise and revitalise the skin.
DESTRESSING DEPUFFING LIFTING
To get the most out of your Gua Sha technique, repeat each movement at least 3 times. Gua Sha can be incorporated into your skincare regimen as little or often as you like. To look after your Gua Sha stone, gently wash with warm soapy water and carefully dry after each use.
