Skincare has always been an interest of mine, but in the last 5 years, I have really honed on really trying to identify my skin’s needs. With that, I’ve been trying out and identifying products and tools that aren’t just gimmicks, but truly help improve my skin. One of these tools is a Gua Sha Stone. I was skeptical at first–I can one stone really do that much for my skin? Short answer: it’s not going to work miracles (I mean let’s be real, no skincare product or tool really is), but it does seem to reduce breakouts, even out my skin tone, and it reduces a lot of the muscle tension I carry in my face. And it feels amazing!
What exactly is a Gua Sha Stone?
Gua Sha is a smooth piece of Jade stone, with origins in Chinese medicine, that has been used for centuries to improve circulation, particularly lymphatic drainage. There are actually two different types of Gua Sha Massage–one on your body that is more intense and even sometimes painful, and a second gentler massage for your face. Most Gua Sha stones have one side that has some ridges to provide different types of massage to different parts of your face. Because of the shape and the ridges of a Gua Sha, it is a lot more versatile and functional than a jade roller. I actually have a Jade roller too and ever since I got my Gua Sha stone I barely use it.
3 Gua Sha Benefits from Daily Use
I have been using my Gua Sha stone a few times a week for the past 6 months or so and love starting my morning routine with it. A lot of estheticians recommend using it daily, but that frequency has not been realistic for me. I keep mine in the fridge for extra cooling properties, although you are not supposed to because it can constrict capillaries, but I just love how refreshing it feels! And I have not noticed any negative skin reactions due to the cold. It is important to use your Gua Sha stone after using a facial oil or moisturizer so that the stone glides easily over your skin and so that you don’t apply too much pressure. I use mine after using my Primally Pure Plumping Serum.
Improved Skin Tone
My skin has fairly good tone, but sun exposure, aging, and pregnancy have done a little number on it. In combination with the skin serums and toner I have been using, the Gua Sha has helped brighten my skin and help it look a lot more even.
Reduces Breakouts
I used to have consistent Adult acne that has virtually gone away in the past year. I do think the products I use have helped, but in the past NOTHING would stop by hormonal acne. Improving my skincare routine with a few changes and daily Gua Sha massages has made my acne virtually disappear. Plus my skin is much more hydrated than it has ever been!
Reduces Puffiness
The lymphatic drainage that the Gua Sha provides is probably the most noticeable positive effect of using this little stone. Gua Sha helps drain excess fluid from your face, which tends to be the most obvious in the mornings. I have noticed a more toned jawline, less puffiness in my cheeks, and my eyebrow shape looking better. I even think the fine lines around my eyes have gone down since starting to use my Gua Sha stone.
Where do I get a Gua Sha Stone?
With it’s rise in popularity the last few years, you can find Gua Sha stones at all sorts of retailers and of course Amazon. Gua Sha stones come in a variety of shape and colors and it’s tempting to pick the prettiest or cheapest one, but you really want to choose one that is going to be authentic, well-made, and function the way you want it too. Primally Pure has been one of my go-to companies for natural, cruelty-free, made in the USA products. When Primally Pure came out with a Gua Sha stone, I knew I could trust their craftsmanship and skincare knowledge to teach me how to use it. You can purchase the Primally Pure Gua Sha stone here and this weekend you can get 25% off (the biggest discount I’ve ever been able to offer!) with my code “THEBLISSFULMOMMA25”. Plus, the Primally Pure Gua Shas all come with a handy felt case that protects your stone and has saved me from having many an accident!
How Do I use a Gua Sha?
There are lots of tutorials available, but again I turn to Primally Pure for guidance. They have several Gua Sha tutorials, but this is the one I found to be most helpful when I was starting out.
Have you ever used a Gua Sha stone before? Any other questions about how to use one?
I’ve had a lot of face puffiness recently. I need to try this!
Very useful advice! thank you for sharing!
I had never heard of this before but now I’m totally checking it out! Sounds interesting!
I have never used Gua Sha. I would definitely try it for sure.