What is Facial Gua Sha?

Facial gua sha in Wilmington, NC

Facial gua sha is a natural, non-surgical, non-pharmaceutical treatment for renewing the face. It has been used for centuries to increase facial health and beauty and has even been referred to as a non-surgical face-lift. People who are afraid of needles are happy to learn that this is a treatment that does not involve needles. The treatment is called “gua sha” because the word “gua” refers to the stroking motion that is applied to the face, and “sha” refers to the appearance of pink in the skin that results from the stroking motion. When gua sha is performed on the face during a facial gua sha treatment, it is done so very gently with the intention of improving circulation and lifting tissues.

In a facial gua sha treatment, a hydrating spray and nourishing oil are applied into the face and décolletage, and a delicate smooth jade tool is used to massage the face. The jade tool gently smooths, invigorates, and sculpts the skin and underlying tissues. Facial gua sha lifts and sculpts the face and neck and focuses on key areas including the brow, eyelids, cheeks, and jowls, often revealing a brighter, toned and lifted complexion and a more clearly defined jaw line. Gua sha can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, sagging, and dullness, as well as darkness and puffiness under the eyes. Results can also include a reduction in sinus congestion, jaw tension, and headaches.

 

What I love about facial gua sha

I love facial Gua sha, and what I notice immediately after a treatment is the resulting glow. One of the biggest areas of improvement I’ve seen in my own complexion is in the evenness of my facial features. One of my eyebrows is lower than the other, and I find that by doubling the amount of massage strokes made to lift the lower eyebrow I can achieve symmetry between my two eyebrows. When I work around the area of my mouth, I’m pleased to see that my lips get lifted so they are more in the shape of a smile than a frown. I also love how gentle and relaxing the overall massage is. It’s definitely a treat!

What’s amazing to me is that results are typically seen after just one session. It’s important to keep reminding the muscles to stay lifted and create new habits, so weekly maintenance for a period of 8 – 10 weeks is recommended for lasting results. After that, maintenance treatments can be spread out more. This technique is gentle enough that it can also be performed daily if desired, and in my practice, I offer a take-home kit with instructions for people who want to continue the maintenance on their own at home.

 

Who should try facial gua sha

Facial gua sha can benefit almost anyone. It’s also important to know that Facial Gua Sha is not recommended for everyone. For example, it’s not a good fit those who are pregnant or have: conjunctivitis, a contagious skin condition, skin irritation other than acne, any growth or injury to facial skin, any blood vessel disorder, blood disease or history of blood clots. It’s a good rule of thumb to wait at least 10 weeks after chemical or surgical treatments the on face and neck and 3 months after Botox or fillers.

 

About the Author

Ericca Burke is the owner of HAVEN Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine where she practices facial gua sha in Wilmington, NC. Click this link to read more about Ericca. 

 

About HAVEN Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine in Wilmington, NC

HAVEN Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine is an acupuncture and Chinese medicine practice located in Wilmington, NC just minutes from beautiful Wrightsville Beach. Click this link for contact information and directions. Click this link for a listing and description of services offered.