The traditional Chinese beauty technique, Gua Sha, gained prominence on TikTok and social media for its purported ability to lift and contour the face. Using a special rose quartz, jade or smooth-edged stone, the treatment first entered medical records during the Ming Dynasty, approximately 700 years ago.1
While the technique was initially used as a method to control chronic pain in the body, it is fast gaining traction in the beauty industry. ‘Gua’ means to scrape while ‘Sha’ refers to the tiny, flat, red, and purple spots or petechiae that is often seen as a side effect of treatment.2
When applied as a facial massage, this ancient pressure method is believed to help with improving circulation, lymphatic flow, and the sculpting and lifting of features while reinvigorating dull skin – especially during the colder months. Other benefits that can accrue include eliminating puffiness, relaxing the facial muscles, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, and stimulating collagen production.3
For Gua Sha massage to reach its full potential, it is important to use the technique with high quality beauty oils. These not only function as a lubricating agent but can also assist in nourishing the skin while targeting specific skin concerns such as dryness and skin sensitivity.
At Kerfoot, our range of specialist oils are the ideal accompaniment to Qua Sha as the smoothing and massaging action of the treatment can result in the deep absorption of the oil – maximising its beauty effect.
For best results, we recommend the use of oils that are lightweight and non-comedogenic, but it is important to first establish the skin type and match it to the right oil.4
Our top five oils for use during Gua Sha:
- Best all-rounder – Rosehip oil
This versatile oil is rich in Vitamin A – with mild anti-inflammatory and skin healing properties. It also features an abundance of nutrients that can boost the production of collagen – supporting skin elasticity and firmness. Rosehip oil can be used in formulations that treat pigmentation and signs of ageing while hydrating the skin.
- Dry skin – Coconut oil
With the highest concentration of saturated fatty acids at 93%, including lauric, myristic and palmitic acid, Coconut oil is a great skin moisturiser. It offers an intense hydrating effect on dry, parched skin and as it is rich in vitamin E, it offers a protective effect against free radicals that can accelerate the visible signs of ageing.
- Sensitive skin – Argan oil
This oil benefits from a rich abundance of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that contains essential fatty acids to hydrate by locking in moisture. It is non-greasy, offers an anti-inflammatory benefit and is easily absorbed without causing irritation. For people suffering from eczema, Argan oil can prevent inflammation and alleviate symptoms like itching skin by restoring lost hydration and optimising the skin’s barrier function.5
- Oily skin – Jojoba oil
Jojoba oil regulates sebum production, and its chemical makeup is remarkably similar to the sebum produced naturally by the body. While using Jojoba oil can smooth and moisturise, it also sends signals to hair and sweat follicles that the skin is optimally hydrated without the need to produce additional sebum. This keeps the skin from becoming oily looking and can help in the prevention of skin breakouts and acne caused by clogged pores.
- Ageing skin – Grapeseed oil
Often flying under the radar, Grapeseed Oil is a strong and enduring choice when dealing with ageing skin. Featuring high amounts of omega chain fatty acids, vitamins E and C, this oil has an impressive history during the formulation of moisturisers, anti-ageing creams and serums as it ‘sits’ on the skin locking in hydration and moisture. Its high linoleic acid content can improve moisture and the texture of the skin, and there is some evidence that it can repair damaged cells.
While the jury is still out on the proven effects of facial massage using Gua Sha, there is little to refute the proven effectiveness of our range of specialist oils during beauty treatments. For more information on how our range of specialists oils can assist you during Gua Sha treatments, contact our beauty team now.
* When referring to facial Gua Sha, where Sha petechiae does not occur, therapeutic claims cannot be made. 3
References:
1 Gua Sha Massage: The History, Benefits and Side Effects – The Skin Games
2 How to Use a Gua Sha Tool At Home – Gua Sha Technique, Tips (harpersbazaar.com)
3|* Acupuncture Today Digital Issue
4 10 Best Facial Oils for Gua Sha for Glowing Skin – YesMissy
5 Professional Beauty – How argan oil can help clients who suffer with sensitive skin conditions
