Gua sha is the common thread among Instagram flat lays and fancy facials. Beauty has taken the centuries-old tradition of “scraping” skin to reduce tension and increase blood circulation. Western brands are now getting into the fray to promote healthier skin and sculpted cheekbones. If you’re not ready to return to the spa yet and have spent many quarantine hours attempting to learn DIY facial techniques – I’m a big fan of Williamsburg-based Lanshin’s tutorials, which help me feel like I actually know what I’m doing – then getting into gua sha may be just the thing. “Gua sha creates flow and movement under the surface to rid tension blockages and allow the tissue to be nourished, resulting in more radiant skin,” FaceGym National Training Manager Madalaina Conti says. Although it is recommended to do this daily, you can still achieve great results by doing it a few times a week. You can dive into the history of this practice using spoons, coins and other objects. But the photos will not be pretty. Find out the different stone shapes you can try, including amethyst, rose quartz, and jade. Also find the pros tips to help guide you on your DIY-face-massage journey.
Herbivore Botanicals Rose Quartz Gua Sha Teardrop
Conti says that the quality of the stone used is as important as the technique. Some lower-quality stones can contain fillers or coatings which may cause skin irritation. This is why it’s important to choose a stone of better quality that you are familiar with. Rose quartz is loved for its ability to channel love.
Herbivore Botanicals Rose Quartz Gua Sha Teardrop, $18.00, available at Revolve.
Lanshin Pro Gua Sha Tool
How can you explain Gua Sha’s meteoric rise in skin-care stardom and success? Conti states, “It feels amazing, and when done properly, provides instant gratification.” The rectangular-shaped Lanshin tool features a single groove that fits your jawline and curves along the sides and neck.
Lanshin .Pro Gua Sha Tool, $125.00, available at Net-A-Porter.
Alder New York Black Obsidian Gua Sha Tool
Conti states that the rhythmic movements of gua sha are very relaxing and almost meditative. This natural onyx is made of rapidly cooling lava. It’s the ideal stone for those who want a monochromatic bathroom.
Alder New York Black Obsidian Gua Sha Tool, $30.00, available at Alder New York.
WTHN Gua Sha Kit
With every use of this rose quartz tool, NYC wellness haven WTHN releases tension in your facial muscles.
Wthn Gua Sha Kit, $40.00, available at Verishop.
Face Gym Multi-Sculpt High Performance Gua Sha
If you are a no-nonsense person, we have the right sculptor for you. We have the perfect sculptor for those who love to get to the point.
FACEGYM Multi-Sculpt High-Performance Gua Sha, $60.00, available at Net-A-Porter.
Act+Acre Scalp Gua Sha
Although technically this is not for your face, it’s good for your scalp. Although it may appear like a decorative hair comb, this jade rock is actually designed to stimulate your scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
Act+Acre Scalp Gua Sha, $40.00, available at Act+Acre.
Gracious Om Gua Sha 3-Piece Kit
There are so many to choose from! This trio of delicate rose quartz stones will enhance your home gua-sha practice. It allows you to use a variety of massage techniques.
Gracious Om Gua Sha 3-Piece Kit, $45.00, available at Anthropologie.
Guy Morgan Gua Sha Stone
This white Nephrite jadestone has a unique scalloped edge that allows you to tailor the intensity of your facial treatment. Use the short end to apply light pressure, or focus on specific areas of tension to create a more intense experience.
Guy Morgan Gua Sha Stone, $55.00, available at Standard Dose.
Mount Lai Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool
Conti says that Gua sha is a technique which connects you with your intuition and can be tailored to each person’s specific needs. This amethyst tool is a heart-shaped tool that I love. It helps to relieve tension and pain in my clenched jaw. Warning: It can be a bit painful at first but it is worth the long-term benefits.
Mount Lai Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool, $34.00, available at Sephora.
Jenny Patinkin Butterfly Gua Sha Sculpting Tool
Jenny Patinkin, a makeup artist, is known for her highly-sought-after beauty tools. This stone in the shape of a butterfly is no exception. The unique shape of the stone allows for many creative uses.
Jenny Patinkin Butterfly Gua Sha Sculpting Tool, $30.00, available at Anthropologie.
Kora Organics Rose Quartz Heart Facial Sculptor
Miranda Kerr’s interpretation of gua sha is that you should love your skin. This stone has heart-shaped curves and round ends, which can be subtly sculpted.
Kora Organics Rose Quartz Heart Facial Sculptor, $58.00, available at Verishop.
Dehiya Rainbow Fluorite Facial Gua Sha Tool
The funky fluorite stone is shaped with a variety grooves and edges that can be used to identify facial muscles. Use the long straight end to glide along the tech necklines and across the forehead. Alternate the scallop ends to hug the cheekbones.
Dehiya Rainbow Fluorite Facial Gua Sha Tool, $48.00, available at Urban Outfitters.
