Gua sha: see the benefits of this technique for the skin and well-being

Gua sha is a technique of Chinese origin that promises to bring benefits not only for the skin, but also for well-being and health. Curious to know more about the procedure? Find out what it is, its advantages, how to do it and if gua sha has contraindications. The information is from dermatologist Aline Somacal (CRM/PR 25661). Check out:

What is gua sha?

The term water means to scrape or rub, while sha can be translated as bleeding on the skin or perverse energy. In practice, the dermatologist explains that “it is a massage technique, originating in Chinese medicine, which uses stones, traditionally made of jade or quartz, which are slid or scraped over the skin.”

Aline explains that “there are variations of the technique using a porcelain spoon instead of stones.” Still, “the original gua sha is based on acupuncture techniques and is made by experienced professionals in the area, but there is also the one made at home by the person himself, through rollers that contain the stones attached to it and are slid over the skin. ”

The dermatologist also highlights that the procedure “combines the benefits of massage with the energy of the stones. In Brazil, it started in 2002, but in China it is a very old technique.”

6 benefits of gua sha

1. Helps in lymphatic drainage: when done on the face, the technique fights swelling, especially around the eyes. Already in the body, it can be an ally in reducing cellulite.
2. Helps in relieving facial tension and stress: the technique promotes muscle relaxation, especially in the jaw region.
3. It can promote exfoliation: depending on the intensity of the scraping, it can promote a superficial exfoliation, removing dead cells from the surface of the skin.
4. Reduces swelling and muscle tension: in the body, gua sha acts to relieve muscle pain and tension.
5. Stimulates circulation: the technique indirectly improves tissue oxygenation.
6. It is linked to acupuncture: when performed by professionals who use acupuncture points, the technique brings its benefits to the body.

Despite all these benefits mentioned, the dermatologist points out that “there is no proof or scientific evidence of improvement in wrinkles, expression lines, blemishes or acne. The aesthetic benefits are more in the matter of prevention and the promotion of well-being.”

How to do a gua sha massage

In addition to looking for a specialist in the technique, you can also do the procedure at home. Check out tutorials and learn how to use the stone on your face:

Benefits of the technique and how to use it

In this video, we learn more about the origin of gua sha and how it is possible to use the stone, or another instrument, to give a facial massage. It’s a procedure to add to your beauty routine!

Lymphatic drainage with gua sha

Among the advantages of gua sha is the activation of circulation and aid in lymphatic drainage. In the video, we follow what movements to make on the face and how to use the stone for this purpose.

Facial massage with gua sha

This is a complete walkthrough of how to use the instrument efficiently. Even the way you hold the stone influences the facial massage and its results.

Did you like the tips? Be careful when doing the procedure alone, as the scraping can damage your skin. If in doubt, always consult a specialist.

Cautions and Contraindications

According to Aline, gua sha is not indicated “for those with chronic skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, eczema in general, psoriasis or skin cancer”, as scraping movements can aggravate these cases. Still, the procedure is contraindicated for “those who use anticoagulant medications, have infectious processes on the skin, such as boils, abscesses, herpes simplex, herpes zoster, for pregnant women and people undergoing cancer treatment or chemotherapy.”

As you have seen, gua sha is more than an aesthetic procedure, it is also linked to well-being. How about adding this step to your self-care routine?