Smoothness: A Key Factor in Choosing a Gua sha Tool A Gua sha tool has to be smooth on all sides so that it creates just the right amount of friction on the skin. There are some tools which have edges that are too pointed or sharp which will feel less comfortable when scraped over the skin.
The type of stone matters.
I recommend looking for a Gua Sha stone in the $35-$75 dollar range and making sure it is made of pure stone. Otherwise, it may leak dyes or toxins and push them deep into your skin.
while low-cost plastic Gua Sha tools are convenient for occasional use, high-end mineral stone tools - especially precious jade - provide a noticeably superior Gua Sha massage experience that's both more effective and deeply relaxing.
Which Gua Sha Stones are Best? Most experts recommend finding one made of pure jade or rose quartz. Some people experience irritation from the synthetic plastic that cheaper gua sha stones are made of.
Jade would work best if you want a cooling sensation during gua sha. Jade naturally feels cool to the touch and maintains that temperature when gliding across the skin. This cooling effect can help reduce inflammation. For a more affordable but less durable option, rose quartz provides value.
Jade is great for releasing blocked energies while Rose Quartz can be extremely calming and rejuvenating for the skin. Next, consider the physical properties of the stones. Choose a more solid material if it is frequently used or regularly applied on the body and muscle areas.
A morning Gua Sha routine can help treat puffiness and energize the skin, whereas a night routine will help relax the muscles and release tight connective tissue in the face. Remember that the key to getting the desired results is consistently doing the Gua Sha facial massage.
You'll see results within a week of using your Gua Sha twice daily! Gua Sha facial massages are also known to boost the immune system, cure digestive problems, and improve blood flow and circulation!
Look for imperfections.
They sometimes look like fibers or veins. If you hold the jade roller up to the light and it looks completely smooth without any imperfections, it might not be real. If the “jade” looks completely smooth and all one color, it's probably chrysoprase, which is commonly used as an imitation jade.
While a big gua sha can be used for the face and body, pencil size is ideal for pressure points and the heart shape is good for targeting around the eyes, mouths, and face too.
Skin Irritation: One of the main risks associated with Gua Sha is skin irritation. If too much pressure is applied, or if the tool is used incorrectly, it can cause redness, bruising, or even broken capillaries. Individuals with sensitive skin should be particularly cautious.
Recovery after Gua Sha Treatment
If you can't take it easy for most of the day following the treatment, you may want to avoid strenuous activities that would promote even more blood flow as well as hot baths or showers that could increase bruising.
Gua sha massage is an excellent way to help achieve a more sculpted, defined jawline over time.
Gua Sha Side Effects
Typically, gua sha is considered safe. But you may have some bruising or notice that your skin looks discolored for a while. You could also be sore and tender afterward. These effects usually go away in 3-4 days.
After your treatment, your Acupuncturist will advise that you take it easy and drink plenty of water. If you have had a cupping treatment or Gua Sha done, it is important that you keep that area of skin covered when outside and avoid showering right away.
Cleanse your face and apply a facial oil or moisturizer to help the gua sha tool glide smoothly over your skin.
You should see smoother and more contoured skin, especially when performing Gua Sha daily. Congratulations, now you have another holistic healing practice to incorporate into your skin care ritual!
If you seek targeted facial massage and want to contour areas like the jawline and cheekbones, a Gua Sha tool may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a quick, refreshing lift that provides a gentle facial massage, a jade roller would be ideal for your skincare routine.
Since these are completely non-invasive and safe, they can be started at any age, even early 20s. Broadly speaking, Jade rollers are more beneficial for slightly younger age groups such as 30-45 years whereas Gua-Shas are more beneficial for older age groups such as those above 45-50 years.
Jojoba oil is one of the best oils for gua sha because it's highly skin compatible and non-pore clogging – making it ideal for all skin types, including sensitive.
A few one-ups rose quartz rollers have versus jade face rollers (and the reason they're at slightly higher price points): Rose quartz has inherent minerals- silicium, magnesium, iron, sodium and oxygen- that skin can topically borrow and benefit from when rolling.