15. Gua Sha.
Gua Sha is not new, but it is most definitely having a moment. From YouTube tutorials to facial treatments at the spa, this ancient healing technique with roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine has recaptured our attention due to its ability to stimulate circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote lymphatic drainage. As this technique becomes more popular, innovations have emerged that blend the traditional with the modern, particularly using thermotherapy heat and cryotherapy cold to elevate its benefits.
The Fundamentals.
Gua Sha involves gently massaging the skin with a smooth tool, typically made from jade, rose quartz, or bian stone. This helps increase microcirculation, release muscle tension, and improve skin tone and texture. While the tool itself plays a crucial role, integrating temperature-based therapies can further enhance the effectiveness of Gua Sha.
Bringing the Heat.
Thermotherapy, or the use of heat in skin care, is a powerful method for improving skin health. When applied to the skin, heat can relax facial muscles, dilate blood vessels, and open pores, making the skin more receptive to skincare products. This increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, which can aid in the healing process and improve overall skin tone.
Hot Towel Compresses–A common way to incorporate thermotherapy into your Gua Sha routine is by using a warm towel compress before beginning. This helps soften the skin and muscles, preparing them for the Gua Sha tool’s movements. The warmth relaxes the facial muscles, making it easier to release tension and promote relaxation.
Heated Gua Sha Tools–Some Gua Sha practitioners use tools that have been slightly warmed in hot water. This gentle heat can make the scraping motion smoother and more effective, particularly for those with mature or dry skin, which can benefit from the increased circulation and enhanced product absorption that thermotherapy provides.
The Cool Down.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is cryotherapy, or the application of cold to the skin. Cryotherapy has become increasingly popular in the beauty world for its ability to reduce inflammation, soothe irritated skin, and tighten pores. Technically, this is a big no-no in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Gua Sha is all about promoting energy and blood circulation, and applying extreme cold does the exact opposite. However, I love a technique remix; cold is sometimes the perfect remedy for calming inflammation.
Ice Rollers and Cold Gua Sha Tools–Using a chilled Gua Sha tool or an ice roller after the initial scraping process can help calm the skin, reduce redness, and constrict blood vessels, which minimizes puffiness. Ice rollers, particularly, are excellent for targeting areas like the under-eye region, where puffiness and dark circles are common.
Cryotherapy Masks–Incorporating a cryotherapy mask post-Gua Sha can further enhance the cooling effect. These masks are designed to deliver a burst of cold to the skin, helping to soothe any inflammation caused by the scraping motion and locking in the benefits of the Gua Sha session.
The Routine 〰️ The steps I take and the tools I use.
Begin with Thermotherapy
Start by applying a serum with slip or face oil, then warm a towel to your face for a few minutes. This step will relax your muscles and prepare your skin for the Gua Sha treatment. Alternatively, you can warm your Gua Sha tool slightly to combine the benefits of heat with the scraping motion.
Perform Gua Sha
Use the warmed tool to perform your Gua Sha technique, focusing on areas where you hold tension, such as the jawline and forehead. The warmth will help increase circulation and make the scraping smoother and more effective. Don’t forget the décolleté, shoulders area, and scalp.
Transition to Cryotherapy
After the Gua Sha session, switch to a chilled Gua Sha tool or an ice roller. Gently glide it over your skin, especially in areas prone to puffiness, like under the eyes. This step will help calm the skin, reduce inflammation, and tighten pores.
Finish with Cooling Skincare Products
Finally, apply a cooled mask, essence, or moisturizer. These products work synergistically with the effects of cryotherapy, providing hydration while calming and firming the skin.
Not every skin type will respond the same way to thermotherapy or cryotherapy. For instance, sensitive skin types may benefit more from cryotherapy, which can soothe irritation, while mature or dry skin might respond better to the deep hydration and increased blood flow promoted by thermotherapy.
Tools For the Job
➸ Rose Quartz Gua Sha & Face Roller $9.98: I bought this duo years ago from Amazon. It’s inexpensive and good quality. You can easily heat it up underwater or let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before use.
➸ Quiet Hours Facial Ice Roller $40: I keep this one in my freezer and pull it out when I need a deep freeze and tightening effect or if my face is particularly inflamed.
➸ Lapcos Variety Pack Face Masks $15: I stock up on these whenever I fly in and out of JFK. They’re simple, easy, and affordable.
➸ Timeless Skincare 20% Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum $26.95: This is another product I keep in my fridge. It’s a great serum to apply before gua sha’ing.
On My Wish List
➸ Microderm Glo Facial Steamer $49.99: The closer we get to fall and winter, the more I consider adding this to my lineup. Plus, a $10 coupon is attached to this product right now.
➸ Tabletop Towel Steamer $34.99: Because why not add a little luxury to your at-home spa experience?
This Substack is free, the recommendations are genuine, and I may receive a commission on purchases from some of the linked and pinned favorites above.