Gua sha facials have become the latest viral at-home beauty treatment. Although it is a trend in recent years, the benefits of gua sha have been observed for centuries. Often done with facial oils, one of the benefits of the ritual is that it helps nutrients absorb deeper into the skin, creating a smooth, glowing and sculpted complexion. If you’re looking for the best facial oils for gua sha, read on as we explain how facial oils work and suggest a few options you can incorporate.
The Best Facial Oils for Gua Sha
What is Gua Sha?
Gua sha is a traditional Chinese practice with many health benefits.
Gua sha facial treatment made with modern techniques are much gentler than the traditional approach. They are performed using a flat, contoured stone such as rose quartz or jade, which is swept comfortably over your nicely oiled face and neck to stimulate blood circulation of the skin. This is the secret behind the gua sha glow!
The treatment also helps eliminate toxins by improving lymphatic drainage, temporarily reducing any swelling. Licensed esthetician Ali Tobia says, “Gua sha works to move these collected fluids into the lymphatic system, where they are cleansed and mixed back into your bloodstream. Unlike the circulatory system, there is no pump for the lymphatic system… By performing gua sha techniques, you give your lymphatic system the boost it needs to get rid of fluids stuck under the surface of your skin and causing your face to inflate”.
Gua sha may have other benefits as well. It appears to relax the fibrous, collagen-rich connective tissue called fascia that covers the facial muscles. This helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles and can even encourage the formation of collagen and elastin. Facial therapist and acupuncturist Ada Ooi says, “[Gua sha] has significant brightening, lifting and sculpting improvements for your face. It stops the face from holding tension and softens the appearance of any fine lines that may have appeared as a result.” Regular gua sha facials can help define the contour of the cheekbones and jawline, thanks to the upward sweeping motion that ‘lifts’ the face and neck.
