With the recent issue of “cortisol face” on social networks (swelling of facial features due to stress), we are seeing a new interest in facial massage techniques to reshape features and eliminate toxins.
Among the best-known natural tips, there is obviously facial massage and its famous Gua Sha, “the expert tool for self-massage”.
The benefits of Gua Sha for the skin
Obviously, it is possible to perform self-massage techniques manually. However, gua sha proves to be an interesting alternative for all those who have difficulty remembering gestures and finger placements. No hassle with gua sha, it “naturally follows the curves of the face”, explains Mélody Barbier, head of facialist training at Seasonly.
Drain the skin
The first function of Gua Sha is to drain! On the same principle as lymphatic drainage, the actions performed with gua sha will eliminate accumulated toxins. This will help deflate facial features, and therefore boost the radiance of the complexion thanks to the stimulation of blood circulation.
To drain, we will favor massage with the smooth surface of the Gua Sha. From the inside out, going down to the lymph glands.
Anti-aging effect
Gua Sha is also an ally for skin firmness since it helps smooth wrinkles and fine lines naturally. Because Gua Sha movements boost the production of collagen naturally present in the skin. As a result, it is plumped up and the muscles are relaxed after all the muscular contractions experienced during the day.
If you want to benefit from these lifting benefits, the professional advises using the “cracked” side of Gua Sha. “It fits all the hollows of the face.” As a bonus, it tones and reshapes the volumes of the face and “lifts the cheekbones”. The passages must be more dynamic than for drainage. We put more pressure but without hurting ourselves.
How to properly use Gua Sha
You will not need more than ten minutes a day to perform this little “facial gymnastics”. The gestures are intuitive and therefore memorable from the first use.
The only rule: always massage from the inside to the outside of the face and from the bottom to the top. The opposite could sag facial features and “create additional wrinkles,” warns the facialist.
In this sense, it is imperative to always put a “slippery” material on your face: balm during the day or an oil at night. In short, materials which will not penetrate quickly, so as to make 3 to 5 passes without the tool attacking the skin. Bonus: Massaging allows the active ingredients in your cosmetic products to penetrate better, which is a real benefit!
How to choose the right Gua Sha
Gua Shas are made from different types of stone. We most often find rose quartz on the market, “ideal for its soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits,” says Mélody Barbier. Jade stone, often green in color, is rather selected for skin with imperfections. In third place, white stones, including opal stone with decongestant properties, and ceramic stone for the regenerating aspect.
As for the shape, they are all different, although the best known remain those with a single wave to better match the oval of the face or three small waves for smoothing.
Sizes and shapes depend on usage. Some Gua Sha adapted to the eye area can therefore be smaller, others larger to work areas such as the neck or the rest of the body. But the use and benefits remain the same.
For your first Gua Sha, the specialist advises choosing it in store, in order to see what suits your face best, and especially your concerns.