While Gua Sha itself is an ancient practice from Traditional Chinese Medicine, it's not as widely used in current day United States. Naturally, clients often have questions about it, so let's dive in and explore this transformational technique.
My Journey with Gua Sha
My experience with Gua Sha started in 2017 when I took my first class with Cecily Braden. Cecily taught Dr. Ping Zhang's Nefeli version of Gua Sha that focuses on skin rejuvenation. Dr. Zhang, a world renowned doctor in Oriental medicine, developed her own stone based on TCM principles- one I still use in my practice to this day. If you're interested in practicing Gua Sha professionally, I highly recommend her books, especially Anti-Aging Therapy.
As I refined my technique, I began incorporating movements to work more closely with the lymphatic system and the interstitium, reducing inflammation and puffiness. Over time, as I learned more about the skin's connection to the nervous system and how somatic touch can release built-up stress and emotions, I integrated somatic movements into my practice.
This evolution led me to develop my own unique version that I lovingly refer to as Somatic Gua Sha. I use it in my treatment room in almost every facial I do and I teach a home-care version of it for clients in my online class.
What Is Gua Sha?
At it's core, Gua Sha is a gentle technique that involves using a stone tool to perform massage-like scraping movements across the skin. These movements affect the underlying muscles, connective tissues, lymph, and skin cells, boosting circulation and improving nutrient absorption.
The result? A more even skin tone, visible lifting, smoother texture, and reduced puffiness.
I hope this article opens the door for you to explore the world of Gua Sha. It has been a deeply healing practice for both my skin and my mind, and I'd love for you to experience those same benefits!
Q&A: Your Questions Answered
Is Gua Sha Effective?
Absolutely! Studies have shown that Gua Sha has remarkable effects on the skin and body. For example, one study used CT scans to compare before and after Gua Sha sessions on 12 women. The results showed noticeable improvements in nasolabial folds (those lines around the mouth), cheeks, eyelids, jawlines, and even facial muscles.
In simpler terms, the scans revealed not just a visual lift in the skin-it was an actual change in the underlying structure.
Is Gua Sha Painful?
Gua Sha itself should not be painful, especially on the face. However, if you have sinus inflammation or a healing wound, that area may feel more sensitive. It's important to communicate with your practitioner so they can adjust the pressure accordingly. but rest assured, it shouldn't hurt and should actually be very relaxing.
Does Gua Sha Cause Wrinkles?
No, exactly the opposite. Gua Sha helps reduce the signs of wrinkles by smoothing out the connective tissues underneath the skin.
It also aids in muscle regeneration and releases fascia that may have thickened, creating a better support structure for your skin. A healthier structure means fewer visible wrinkles.
Does Gua Sha Cause Acne?
No, Gua Sha can actually help with acne by stimulating a sluggish lymphatic system and calming inflammation.
However, you should avoid using Gua Sha on areas with active cysts or infected lesions. In some cases, the tool can be worked around these areas, but it should never be used directly over them to avoid spreading infection or worsening inflammation.
Is Gua Sha Permanent?
While Gua Sha has lasting benefits, it's important to remember that our skin and body are living, breathing organisms that change over time. The effects of Gua Sha are cumulative, meaning the more often you practice it, the better your skin will respond, and the longer the results will last. But nothing will stop your body from changing.
Can Gua Sha Help A Double Chin?
Yes it can. Double chins can be caused for a variety of factors, including excess fluid retention, excess subcutaneous fat, and excess skin from volume loss. Gua Sha can positively impact all these areas, helping you achieve a more defined jaw line.
Can Gua Sha Help TMJ?
Yes Gua Sha works wonders for relaxing the muscles that contribute to jaw clenching. I've even used it successfully with clients recovering from Bell's Palsy to help restore muscle movement.
When Should I Do Gua Sha?
You can enjoy Gua Sha at any time, but I recommend doing it before bed if possible.
Why? Because nighttime is when our bodies naturally heal and regenerate. Gua Sha helps relax the nervous system, setting the state for deeper, more restful sleep. Many clients have told me their sleep improved significantly after incorporating Gua Sha into their nighttime skincare ritual.
Where Can I Buy Gua Sha Stones?
Not all Gua Sha stones are created equal. I sell a variety of stones in my online store, each carefully selected for its angles and features, so you can perform all the movements I teach. This topic is so important that I even devoted an entire module in my online Gua Sha course dedicated to choosing the right stone for you.
Beware of cheap stones on sites like Amazon or at big-box stores like Walmart. They're often made from plastic or cultured marble, which don't retain temperature well and don't provide the necessary weight for proper pressure. Gua Sha should rely heavily on the weight of the stone- and not from hard pressure from your hand.
There are some beautiful, high-quality stones out there, and my advice is to buy from a reputable seller with experience in performing Gua Sha.
Ready to Try Gua Sha?
I hope this Q&A has given you insight into the wonderful, holistic benefits of Gua Sha. If you're ready to experience it for yourself, consider booking my Enlightenment Facial, where Gua Sha plays a key role in restore your skin's natural radiance.
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