Mastering Gua Sha and the Best Oils to use

Gua Sha, a traditional Chinese healing technique, has surged in popularity as a holistic beauty practice, revered for its ability to promote circulation, sculpt facial contours, and enhance skin's natural radiance.

A Brief Introduction

Originating from the words "gua" (scraping) and "sha" (reddish skin reaction), Gua Sha involves gently scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to stimulate blood flow and encourage lymphatic drainage, release toxins, relieve muscle pain, and reduce inflammation.

When applied to the face, gently scraping the tool across the skin in upward and outward motions to stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage. This, in turn, aids in the detoxification process and helps reduce puffiness, promote collagen production, leaving the skin visibly smoother and more toned. And over time, also smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.

HOW TO USE THE GUA SHA

There are over 120 points on the neck face and head. These points are also associated with the meridian lines and our internal organs.

Using all sides of the carved stone, like our Guasha Face Comb, ergonomically designed for the curves of the face and body to glide, sweep (and scraping) over pressure points.

Start with clean, dry skin. Warm in your palms the Gua Sha Oil that have nourishing properties that are suitable for your face type, along with slip to allow the Gua Sha stone to glide smoothly over acupoints and to sculpt the skin.

1. We first open the channels on the face. Use your finger or the rounded pointed edge of the Gua Sha to press on vital acupressure points around the face as indicated on the diagram.

2. The forehead. Starting from the center acupressure point move the gua sha upwards to the hairline.

3. Around Eyes. They say the eyes are the windows to the soul. In TCM, the acupressure points around the eyes, reflects stagnation in the body, which can result in skin and facial issues. Sweep the gua sha around eye area pressing on appropriate acupressure points, which will also open sinus and clear congestion.

4. Cheeks. Starting at the point at mouth, then the base of the nose and then the side of the now, sweep across the face to the temples.

5. Jawline and Chin. Move the gua sha up the chin to lips, pressing on the point under the lips. Perform some circular motions around chin. Guide the gua sha along the jawline, focusing on the acupressure point before the ear to release tension. This point is great for relieve the symptoms of TMJ. Sweep up the excess skin under chin, over jawline and up to the cheek bone.

6. Lymphatic Drainage. Starting at the temples, move around the ears to the acupressure points, down the side of the neck to the collarbone. 

7. Finally the neck, head and shoulders. We hold a lot of tension in these areas, which can result in deep furrows and wrinkles. Using the point and curved side of gua sha, focus on acupressure points along the base of the skull and ‘scrape’ down the neck and over the shoulders. For releasing tension in the head, start at the hairline, use the gua sha in small circular movements on acupressure points along the top of the head to the back, going towards the ear in parallel lines.

Finding The Perfect Gua Sha Oil

However, the key to an effective and enjoyable Gua Sha session lies not just in the tool but also in the oil used. The right oil can elevate your Gua Sha experience from good to extraordinary, providing the right amount of slip and nourishment to your skin.

After months of research and testing, we narrowed it down to a handful of amazing options for use with Gua Sha. The three oils that finally made the cut, offered the perfect balance of slip, consistency, and provided the best nutrients for nourishment, hydration and age defying properties targeted to individual skin types.

Criteria for the Perfect Gua Sha Oil

1. Slipperiness: The oil should provide enough slip to allow the tool to glide smoothly without causing friction or tugging at the skin.
2. Consistency: It should absorb at a rate that allows a prolonged massage but also leaves the skin feeling nourished, not greasy.
3. Nutrient Benefits: The oil should be rich in nutrients that support skin health, such as vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids.

Among the many contenders, three oils emerged as the undisputed champions:

Squalane: The Hydration Hero

Squalane is a remarkable oil, revered for its unparalleled hydrating properties. Derived from olives, squalane is a hydrogenated form of squalene, a natural substance produced by our own skin cells. This makes it exceptionally biocompatible and easily absorbed.

The slippery, almost velvety texture of squalane creates the ideal surface for Gua Sha tools to glide effortlessly over the skin, minimizing friction and enhancing the massaging effect.

What sets squalane apart is its ability to lock in moisture without clogging pores. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and leaves the skin feeling soft and plump. For those with dry or sensitive skin, squalane is a godsend, providing deep hydration and promoting a healthy, dewy complexion.

Camellia Seed Oil: The Ancient Brightening Beauty

Camellia seed oil, often called the "Beauty Secret of the Geishas," extracted from the seeds of the camellia flower, known for its ability to brighten and even out skin tone. Rich in antioxidants, particularly Vitamin E and polyphenols, Camellia Seed oil fights free radicals and protects the skin from environmental damage.

The texture is light yet nourishing, providing a silky glide for the Gua Sha tool. Its high oleic acid content helps to keep the skin soft and supple, while the antioxidants work to fade dark spots and enhance the skin’s natural glow. Regular use of Camellia Seed oil leaves the complexion looking luminous and youthful. Making it an excellent choice for those seeking to brighten their skin.

Pumpkin Seed Oil: The Lifting Elixir

Pumpkin seed oil is a hidden gem in the world of skincare, often overlooked but incredibly potent. Cold-pressed from pumpkin seeds, distinctive deep green hue and nutty aroma, this oil is packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as zinc, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids, this oil is a true elixir for lifting and firming the skin.

Its rich, viscous texture provides a perfect medium for the Gua Sha technique, offering the right amount of slip without being overly greasy.

The high zinc content in pumpkin seed oil helps to boost collagen production, improving skin elasticity and firmness. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it an excellent choice for calming irritated skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Using pumpkin seed oil in your Gua Sha routine is particularly beneficial for mature skin, providing a lifting effect and enhancing the overall tone and texture.

Combining the Oils for Maximum Benefits

Each of these oils offers unique benefits, but combining different oils can elevate your Gua Sha routine, providing enhanced benefits tailored to your skin's needs.

Pairing Options:

• Pumpkin Seed and Squalane: Ideal for dry and mature skin, this duo offers deep hydration and anti-aging benefits.
• Squalane and Camellia Seed: Perfect for oily or acne-prone skin, this blend balances oil production while delivering lightweight hydration.
• Pumpkin Seed and Camellia Seed: Best for mature or dull skin, this combination provides intense nourishment and rejuvenating properties.

The Ultimate Trio:

For a comprehensive treatment, mix equal parts of Pumpkin Seed, Squalane, and Camellia Seed Oils. This powerhouse blend offers hydration, anti-aging benefits, and a radiant glow, making it suitable for all skin types.

Additional Combinations:

Besides combining these oils with each other, They also pair wonderfully with our Blue Tansy Oil. With its high Squalane content and jasmine scent, Blue Tansy enhanced anti-aging and regenerative properties of Camellia Seed and Pumpkin Seed Oils. Additionally, Blue Tansy Oil pairs wonderfully with any Gua Sha oil blend you choose.

Another excellent choice is our Glow Oil, predominantly made from camellia seed oil and infused with Seabuckthorn. This oil delivers a nutrient-packed blend that boosts the skin-rejuvenating and moisturizing effects of squalene and pumpkin seed oils.

You can alos add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the Gua Sha oil. Mix them well, and enjoy the combined benefits and pleasant aroma, optimize your Gua Sha experience even more.