Gua Sha Power: 4 Reasons You’ll Love This Trending Tool

Are you tired of looking in the mirror and feeling like your skin just doesn't have that youthful glow anymore? Fear not beauty, because there's a skincare technique that's been gaining popularity lately called gua sha that could be just what you need to get your skin looking and feeling amazing again! Gua sha is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves using a smooth-edged tool to scrape the skin in a specific manner. When used in conjunction with certain skincare products, gua sha can offer a number of benefits for the skin, including improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and a more youthful appearance. 

Improved Circulation

One of the main benefits of gua sha is its ability to increase circulation in the skin. By using a gua sha tool to massage the face, neck, and decolletage, you can stimulate blood flow to the area. This increased circulation can help to bring more oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, promoting healthy cell function and regeneration. Additionally, improved circulation can help to reduce puffiness and under-eye circles, giving the skin a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Reduced Inflammation

Inflammation is a major contributor to many skin concerns, including acne, rosacea, and premature aging. Gua sha has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the skin, thanks to its ability to increase blood flow and promote lymphatic drainage. This can lead to a reduction in redness, irritation, and blemishes, and can help to improve overall skin tone and texture.

Youthful Appearance

Another benefit of gua sha is its ability to promote a more youthful appearance. By stimulating circulation and reducing inflammation, gua sha can help to improve skin firmness and elasticity. This can lead to a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as a more defined jawline and cheekbones. Regular use of gua sha can also help to lift and tone the skin, resulting in a more sculpted and youthful look.

Because Science, Duh.

Research has shown that gua sha can offer a number of benefits for the skin. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that gua sha massage can improve skin hydration, elasticity, and blood flow, while reducing puffiness and fine lines. Another study published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery found that gua sha can help to reduce facial swelling and improve lymphatic drainage.

Additionally, research has shown that certain ingredients, such as those found in Fungirl Skincare products, can enhance the benefits of gua sha. A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that natural oils can help to improve skin hydration and reduce inflammation, while a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that adaptogenic herbs and botanicals can help to reduce oxidative stress and improve skin barrier function. This suggests that using products like Fungirl Face Oil in conjunction with gua sha can help to amplify the benefits of the massage, resulting in healthier, more youthful-looking skin.

If you're looking for a fun and effective way to give your skin a little TLC, give gua sha a try and don't forget to pair it with Fungirl Face Oil. Your skin (and your selfie game) will thank you!

XOXO

Fungirl

SOURCES

1. Schagen, S. K., Zampeli, V. A., Makrantonaki, E., & Zouboulis, C. C. (2017). Discovering the link between nutrition and skin aging. Dermato-endocrinology, 9(1), e1288324. https://doi.org/10.1080/19381980.2017.1288324

2. Kim, T. H., Kang, J. W., Kim, K. H., & Kim, H. J. (2017). Effects of facial massage on skin blood flow and vascular reactivity. International journal of cosmetic science, 39(3), 269-273. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12371

3. Chang, J. S., & Huang, Y. C. (2014). Effect of gua sha therapy on perimenopausal symptoms in women: a randomized controlled trial. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/364654

4. Nielsen, A., Knoblauch, N. T., Dobos, G. J., Michalsen, A., & Kaptchuk, T. J. (2012). The effect of Gua Sha treatment on the microcirculation of surface tissue: a pilot study in healthy subjects. Explore, 8(4), 230-236. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2012.04.001

5. Wu, Y., Liu, L., Chen, X., Yang, X., Luo, H., & Wang, J. (2021). Herbal extracts and their components targeting skin aging: A systematic review. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 281, 114546. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2021.114546

6. Huang, Y. H., Chen, C. Y., Lai, C. Y., Lee, K. C., & Chang, C. H. (2020). Effects of traditional Chinese medicine, Gua Sha, on skin blood flow and temperature changes in young volunteers: A pilot study. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2020. https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/8865438

7. Deng, Y., Xu, Y., Yao, M., Zhou, L., Wang, Y., & Liu, H. (2020). Adaptogenic herbs and their active constituents: An updated systematic review of their molecular signaling and therapeutic potential in the context of oxidative stress, aging, and longevity. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2020. https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/4132812