Gua Sha is an ancestral massage method, born in Asia several millennia ago, and today a true essential ritual in Korean beauty treatments. Originally used for its therapeutic benefits on the body, Gua Sha has conquered the world of K-Beauty thanks to its miraculous effects on facial skin.
What is Gua Sha?
Gua Sha is a massage technique using a flat stone, formerly made of cow horn, but now mainly made of rose quartz, jade, or other semi-precious stones such as opal, blue sodalite (ideal for dehydrated skin) and green aventurine (perfect for blemished skin).
This beauty tool is specially designed to fit the contours of the face and apply gentle pressure to the skin to stimulate blood circulation, drain toxins and relax facial muscles. In Korea, this technique is particularly popular for its lifting and firming effects.
Why are South Korean women so fond of Gua Sha?
South Korean women, known for their glowing, smooth skin, incorporate Gua Sha into their skincare routine for several reasons:
- Lifting and firming effect
- Radiance of the complexion
- Reduction of bags and dark circles
- Muscle relaxation and release of tension
- Reduction of wrinkles and fine lines
- Deep hydration
- Improved skin texture
- Tension relief
- The Different Forms of Gua Sha and Their Uses
Gua Sha for the face comes in different forms, each adapted to a specific area of the face:
- Heart-shaped: ideal for working on the oval of the face, this shape allows you to sculpt and firm the contours.
- Wing-shaped : perfect for massaging the areas around the nose and mouth, it helps target fine lines and wrinkles.
- Mushroom-shaped: designed to decongest the eye area, it effectively reduces puffiness and dark circles.
How to integrate Gua Sha into your treatments?
To get the most out of this Korean beauty technique, it is essential to follow a few simple steps:
- Prepare the skin: Start by cleaning the face and applying an oil or serum to facilitate the sliding of the stone on the skin.
- Perform the massage: Use the Gua Sha stone in gentle movements from the center of the face outwards, following the natural contours of the face. Don't forget to massage the neck as well to stimulate lymphatic circulation.
- Repeat regularly: For visible results, it is recommended to practice Gua Sha several times a week, or even daily, depending on your needs.
Gua Sha is more than just a trend, it’s a true Korean wellness ritual that brings radiance and youth to the skin. Easy to integrate into your daily routine, it helps firm the contours of the face, smooth wrinkles and restore radiance to your complexion. For optimal results, combine the use of Gua Sha with Korean skincare products.