Are Gua Sha Tools Worth the Hype?

By: Molly O’Toole

If you’ve been anywhere on the internet lately, you’ve seen the gemstone facial tool that every celebrity and influencer has been raving about. The gua sha facial tool is an ancient Asian beauty tool that has an impressive history and lymph-flushing qualities. The tool is typically made of either jade, rose quartz, or amethyst and has rounded edges to and has rounded edges to smoothly glide over the skin. 

For generations, Chinese mothers would use the technique as a home remedy for sick children. The beauty tool has been documented in medical records dating back to the Ming Dynasty in China between 1368 and 1644. While this was the first recorded instance of the stone’s use, many historians believe that the technique dates back to the Paleolithic Age where stones or other materials were used to massage the body to ease pain and reduce symptoms of illness. 

Using a gua sha facial tool regularly can increase circulation, decrease puffiness, and promote collagen production. Softly scraping the stone against your skin will trigger skin redness and repair response in your skin cells, leading to increased skin cell turnover. With regular and proper use, gua sha can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increase definition in the skin, and relieve headaches or neck tension. Different sides of the stone can improve lymphatic drainage and improve the movement of those fluids and leave you with more chiseled facial features. 

When practicing this technique, it’s crucial to guide the stone across the skin in the proper manner. First, apply a sensible amount of lubricant or oil (rosehip oil is commonly used) to the skin to help the stone glide smoothly over the skin and reduce any friction across the face. Hold the stone firmly in your hand at a 30-45 degree angle toward your skin and glide the stone in the same direction, not back and forth. It’s important to go in an upward and outward direction by pressing lightly and holding the skin tight to gently lift the face. Use the stone’s different shaped sides to release tension along the jaw and the brow bone. Repeat each stroke five to ten times before moving on to your next location.