If you’ve spent most of 2021 scrolling through Tiktok (because let’s face it, what else has there been to do), you’ll most likely have come across 3 things: Addison Rae, *that* feta pasta, and the holy grail of beauty routines; Gua Sha.
The technique is a firm fave amongst celebs and influencers, and involves scraping an insanely aesthetic-looking tool across the face, with the goal of achieving ultimate lifting-plumping results.
It’s said to have countless health and beauty benefits, and has been hailed as the secret to healthy, glowing skin. What’s more? Celebs including Lizzo, Kendall Jenner, and Miranda Kerr have all pledged their allegiance to the treatment, and the hashtag ‘#guasha’ has over 376.1 million views on TikTok.
So, what’s all the fuss about? Here’s what you need to know.
By Beth Ryan
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1 What is Gua Sha?The methodology behind this new-found cult beauty trend is actually rooted in Chinese tradition – the term ‘Gua Sha’ loosely translates as ‘scraping’, in reference to the technique used in the practice. Traditionally a pretty vigorous affair, and one used all over the body, it has morphed into what we know now – a more gentle facial version in which a small stone tool (more on that later) is gently passed over the face.
This massaging action is said to relax facial muscles, boost blood circulation, and stimulate lymphatic drainage, leaving skin supple and plumped.
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2 The tool
Traditional practice of Gua Sha used anything from ceramic spoons to blunt coins – basically anything with a flat surface and smooth rounded edge. Nowadays, the most common and recognisable tools are the small, flat (super cute) stones which come in a variety of shapes and materials.
Some believe each material provides different benefits (jade for balancing the skin, rose quartz for acne-prone skin, etc.) It should be said that these claims are not proven, but honestly? It’s so pretty, we most definitely want one anyway.
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3 The benefits
According to celebs and influencers everywhere, Gua Sha boasts an almost endless list of benefits. Of course, not all of these are proven to be true, but users swear by the practice and its results, and there is definitely some science behind the claims.
For example, the scraping technique can trigger a repair response in the skin, increasing the rate of collagen production and cell regeneration. This in turn is believed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, smooth fine lines, and help deal with stubborn dark circles.
The scraping also stimulates blood circulation within the blood vessels of the soft tissue, which increases blood flow and encourages lymphatic drainage, giving you that radiant natural glow, and decreasing puffiness. Bonus? The technique is great if you’ve had a few too many the night before, and your skin is suffering the consequences.
And, in addition to all of this, many users also claim that regular use helps with headaches, facial tension, and promotes better sleep. Is there anything Gua Sha can’t do?
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4 How to use it
Luckily, this celeb-approved treatment is actually super accessible, meaning it’s easy to give it a go at home. Once you’ve picked the tool that works best for you, (Again, there’s a tonne of options in this regard so it’s really up to you which one you fancy), here’s how to use it:
Apply a face oil or serum to make sure that the tool can move smoothly and doesn’t drag or irritate the skin. Then, glide the tool gently over the skin, with the tool laying almost flat to your face. Always move the tool from the centre of your face in an outwards motion, and only in one direction – never back and forth. For a toning effect, glide the tool across your jawline, from your chin to your ear, or under your cheekbone, beginning near your mouth and moving towards your temple. Moving the tool from the centre of your forehead towards your temples can also release pressure in your face and help relax your muscles. Repeat each motion 3-5 times.
So, it’s easy to do, has a tonne of benefits, and (honestly?) just feels super good. Our verdict – what’s not to love?
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