Can using a Gua Sha really transform your skin? Here’s what a dermatologist has to say

After the jade roller there is a new product that’s literally revolutionising the beauty world. Ladies, say hello to Gua Sha!
gua sha
Gua Sha helps in face sculpting! Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Nikita Bhardwaj Published: 24 Apr 2021, 12:33 pm IST
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Social media is buzzing with a new product called Gua Sha which can apparently help you get a chiseled jawline. Many beauty vloggers swear by this new age facial toner. So, we decided to ask a professional about its effectiveness and if it really works! 

Let’s read what Dr Nivedita Dadu, dermatologist, founder and chairman of Dadu Medical Centre has to say about Gua Sha.

First thing that you should know is that Gua Sha is worth a try

Gua Sha, which literally means ‘scraping sand’, involves scraping the muscles of the face using an elongated stone. It is a therapeutic facial therapy which promises contour-sculpting benefits. Gua Sha is a completely natural treatment that involves scraping the skin with a massage tool to improve the circulation. 

“It is considered to be an ancient Chinese healing treatment that offers a unique approach to better health, addressing issues like chronic pain. The redness that occurs after scraping the skin encourages the skin to heal itself. But, the modern-day Gua Sha treatment is less intense. It leaves us with a well-sculpted face along with other remarkable results,” explains Dr Dadu.

gua sha
Go Gua Sha for firm facial muscles. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Can using a Gua Sha help us get a jawline like Kareena Kapoor?

Well, ladies, the answer to that is yes! Gua Sha treatment involves an upwards and outward sweeping motion that helps to stimulate blood circulation. The enhanced blood flow around the face and neck not only provides us with radiant skin but also helps with skin firming and lifting benefits. This massage technique is designed to relieve any kind of tension in the facial muscles, boost blood circulation, and encourage lymphatic drainage to reduce bloat. 

“It helps to deal with factors that interfere with optimal circulation. In addition, it has effects such as improving skin texture, enhancing the complexion and sculpting facial features,” said Dr Dadu.

Dr Dadu suggests the right way to go about it

First, apply moisturizer or oil to the area of the body that you want to work on. This allows you to move the Gua Sha tool across the skin more smoothly. Then, press the Gua Sha tool on your skin with smooth, firm strokes in one direction. 

“Start with cleansing the face and apply any serum, face oil or moisturiser. The skin should be slippery in order to prevent the Gua Sha from causing any kind of irritation. Hold your tool firmly in the correct way. The curved part should hug the curves of the skin and the flat part should rest on the skin. Begin by using the wider concave side of the Gua Sha tool. Start at the base of one of the sides of the well-moisturized neck, pulling it up, towards the jaw area. Repeat this a few times and do the same on the other side of the neck. Then, move to the front of the neck, making the same upward movement,” recommends Dr Dadu.

She added, “You can use the Gua Sha therapy in the morning or in the night before sleeping. Do it in the morning to reduce puffiness or at night, just before sleeping, to relax the facial muscles.”

gua sha
A double chin is an enemy to a chiseled jawline. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Gua Sha has practically no side effects 

Gua Sha is considered to be a natural healing remedy. So, it is totally safe! It doesn’t cause any pain, but the procedure may change the appearance of the skin. Since this treatment involves rubbing or scraping of skin with a massage tool, tiny blood vessels present near the surface of the skin can burst. This can sometimes result in skin bruising and minor bleeding. But, these bruises usually disappear within a couple of days. Some people may also experience temporary indentation of their skin.

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Moisturiser or oil – what to apply on the face while using the Gua Sha tool?

Applying a moisturizer or serum is better because these products are lightweight. Unlike oil, moisturizers or serums will not make the skin feel greasy or sticky. But, a lot depends on your skin type too. So, you should apply whatever your skin is more comfortable with! If you have acne prone skin, you can use moisturizer or serum because these get absorbed into the skin easily. 

“If you are in need of an anti-aging product, you can use moisturizers to soften the fine lines and wrinkles. If your face is usually dry and lacks moisture, a good moisturizer will deliver immediate and intense hydration. Avoid using this treatment on bare skin because it can cause rashes and irritation,” suggests Dr Dadu.

How often can one use a Gua Sha?

“It totally depends on the skin of the person. But, using this treatment thrice a week can help you see results,” says Dr Dadu.

gua sha
Treat your skin right with Gua Sha. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
The last word

Gua Sha is not for everybody. People who have medical conditions affecting the skin or veins, bleed easily, take medication to thin their blood, have deep vein thrombosis, have an unhealed infection, tumor, open wounds, or any recent surgery should avoid using this technique. 

Ladies, sculpt your face with Gua Sha!

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About the Author

Six-pack abs are all that Nikita needs, along with her daily dose of green tea. At Health Shots, she produces videos, podcasts, stories, and other kick-ass content. ...Read More

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