How To: Gua Sha with Carrier Oil

Gua sha, an ancient Chinese healing technique, has gained popularity in recent years for its numerous skincare benefits. Not only does it help to sculpt the face, but also improves circulation and promotes lymphatic drainage – which are key to a healthy and glowing complexion. When combined with carrier oils, it becomes an even more effective and soothing practice. In today’s blog, we’ll walk you through the art of gua sha with carrier oils, revealing its exact benefits and outlining a step-by-step tutorial to incorporate it into your skincare routine.

Why Use Carrier Oils with Gua Sha?
Carrier oils act as lubricants during gua sha, allowing the tool to glide smoothly across the skin without causing friction or irritation. Moreover, carrier oils possess their own skincare benefits, such as moisturizing, nourishing, and promoting skin elasticity. When paired with gua sha, they enhance the overall experience and efficacy of the practice.

Choosing the Right Carrier Oil:
Selecting the appropriate carrier oil is crucial for achieving the best results. Here are some of our favorites and their benefits:

• Jojoba Oil: Known for its resemblance to the skin's natural sebum, jojoba oil is easily absorbed and suitable for all skin types. It helps balance oil production and moisturizes the skin without clogging pores.

• Sweet Almond Oil: Lightweight and non-greasy, sweet almond oil is gentle on the skin and ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin. It moisturizes and soothes irritation while promoting a youthful glow.

• Fractionated Coconut Oil: Fractionated coconut oil is a preferred choice for massage therapists and individuals looking for a smooth, non-greasy oil. Its lightweight texture allows for easy gliding, and it can be combined with essential oils to create customized blends. The oil is easily absorbed into the skin, leaving it feeling soft and moisturized.

Materials Needed:

• Gua Sha tool (made of jade, rose quartz, or another smooth stone)
• Carrier oil (such as jojoba oil, coconut oil, or sweet almond oil)
• Clean towel or cloth
• Optional: Essential oils (for added relaxation and aromatherapy)
  
  

Step-by-Step Tutorial:

• 1. Cleanse Your Face: Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any makeup, dirt, or impurities. Pat your face dry with a clean towel.
  
  
• 2. Apply Carrier Oil: Pour a few drops of your chosen carrier oil onto your fingertips. Gently massage the oil onto your face and neck using upward strokes. Ensure that your skin is evenly coated with the oil. If you prefer, you can mix a few drops of essential oils into the carrier oil for added benefits.
  
  
• 3. Begin Gua Sha Massage: Hold the gua sha tool at a slight 30 degree angle (not perpendicular) against your skin, starting from the center of your face and moving outward towards your hairline or jawline.  You can start with either your forehead, cheeks, or jawline. Use gentle but firm pressure, making long and smooth strokes along the contours of your face. Repeat each stroke 5-10 times in the same area.
  
  
• 4. Follow Facial Structure: Follow the natural contours of your face and neck. Use the different edges of the Gua Sha tool to target specific areas, such as the eyebrows, cheekbones, jawline, and neck. Pay extra attention to areas of tension, puffiness, or fine lines. Use smaller movements and lighter pressure around delicate areas such as the eyes.
  
  
• 5. Finish with Neck and Décolletage: After completing the face, move on to your neck and décolletage area. Use the Gua Sha tool to gently massage these areas in upward strokes to promote lymphatic drainage and reduce tension.
  
  
• 6. Cleanse Gua Sha Tool: After each use, clean your Gua Sha tool with soap and water, then pat it dry with a clean towel.
  
  
• 7. Moisturize: After completing the Gua Sha massage, you can leave the remaining carrier oil on your skin as a moisturizer or follow up with your regular skincare routine.
  
  
• 8. Repeat Regularly: For best results, incorporate Gua Sha massage into your skincare routine regularly, preferably a few times a week.