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Gua Sha is an ancient practice that can help you relax and improve your skin’s appearance. This simple massage technique can be done at home in just a few minutes. It may help reduce puffiness and relieve tension. In this tutorial, you will learn how to do a quick Gua Sha massage on your face and neck.
Getting Ready
Before you start, it’s important to prepare your skin. Here’s what you need to do:
- Cleanse your skin: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry.
- Apply face oil or moisturizer: Use a face oil or creamy moisturizer to create a slippery surface. This helps the Gua Sha tool glide smoothly over your skin. This prevents tugging or dragging. Popular choices include Kiehl’s Sativa Hemp Seed Oil, The Ordinary Rose Hip Seed Oil, and e.l.f.’s All the Feels Facial Oil.
Gua Sha Basics
- The Tool: A Gua Sha tool is a smooth, flat stone. It comes in different shapes and materials. A heart-shaped tool is common.
- Cleanliness: Always wash your Gua Sha tool before each use.
- Technique: Use gentle pressure. Glide the tool across your skin in upward and outward motions.
Note: I am not a licensed Esthetician, or Gua Sha massage professional. Massages are so versatile and it is never a “one size fits all”. These videos are meant for people who just want to relax after a long day and have a simple follow along tutorial without thinking too much. This video is not meant to cure or treat any skin issues. For real treatment and diagnoses, please consult your dermatologist or licensed medical professional.
Step-by-Step Gua Sha Massage
Shoulders
- Use the heart-shaped part of the Gua Sha tool.
- Start on your left shoulder.
- Glide the tool across your skin.
- Wiggle the tool at the end for tension relief.
- Repeat each step five times.
- Do the same on your right shoulder.
Neck
- Move to your neck.
- Glide the tool upwards.
- Repeat on the other side of your neck.
- For lymphatic drainage, massage downwards.
- For anti-aging, massage upwards.
Jawline
- Place two fingers on your chin for support.
- Place the tool against your skin.
- Swipe upwards along your jawline.
- Switch to the right side and repeat.
Cheeks
- Use the straight side of the tool.
- Place two fingers on the side of your nose for support.
- Place the tool against your skin.
- Swipe upwards towards your temples.
- Repeat on your right cheek.
Under Eyes
- Use the part of the tool for under your eyes.
- Place your fingers on the inner corners of your eyes.
- Gently slide the tool across your under-eye area.
- Be very gentle in this area.
- Switch sides and repeat.
Eyebrows
- Place your fingers between your eyebrows.
- Use the heart-shaped side of the tool.
- Slide the tool across, following your brow bone.
- This is great for tension relief.
- Don’t forget the right side!
- Use the straight side again, with the same finger placement.
- Slide the tool upwards from between your brows.
- Go straight to the left side and then the right side.
Choosing the Right Gua Sha Tool
The material of the Gua Sha tool doesn’t matter too much. Look for a tool that is smooth and free of scratches or bumps. Some popular materials include:
- Jade: A classic choice, jade is known for its cooling properties.
- Rose quartz: Believed to have soothing and calming effects.
Ultimately, the best Gua Sha tool is the one that feels most comfortable in your hand.
Jade Roller vs. Gua Sha Stone
It depends on what you like and what you need. Jade rollers are good for rolling in skincare products. They’re also good if you have joint problems. Gua Sha feels like a massage. The wiggles at the end can help relieve tension.
Important Tips
- Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your skin feels during the massage.
- Be gentle: Avoid using too much pressure, especially around your eyes.
- Customize: Adjust the massage to your preferences.
- Consistency: Do Gua Sha regularly for the best results.
Benefits of Gua Sha
Gua Sha can offer several potential benefits:
- Reduce puffiness: By promoting lymphatic drainage.
- Relieve tension: Especially in your face, neck, and shoulders.
- Improve circulation: Which can give your skin a healthy glow.
- Promote relaxation: The gentle massage can be a calming and mindful experience.
Want to take your self-care routine to the next level? Add Gua Sha to your skincare routine today!
Conclusion
You’re all done! Take a deep breath. Gua Sha is a simple way to relax and take care of your skin. By following these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of Gua Sha at home. Remember to be gentle and listen to your body.