Let's be real. There are plenty of beauty tools out there that promise a lot. There are LED-powered masks that are supposed to zap acne and target wrinkles. People swear by microcurrent devices that tone and lift. And some gadgets unclog pores, exfoliate, and deep clean the skin. So yeah, it's a lot. And yes, it's been proven that many of them work. But these finds can also be pricey.
The thing about these tools is you'll have to use them regularly to see some results. It can be tough to justify a big gadget splurge if you don't know whether you'll be able to commit to making it part of your routine or whether it will be effective for your skin needs.
If you're on the fence, I'm about to tell you about one tool you can start with that promises most of the above (well, the sculpting, lifting, and firming part) and won't cost you more than $35. In fact, there are some options on Amazon that are under $10. Meet the gua sha tool.
What Is the Gua Sha Tool?
Gua sha tools have actually been around for centuries. "Gua sha tools come in various shapes and stones," explains Lin Chen, founder and CEO of Pink Moon. "It's a tool that dates back to the Paleolithic Age and was used on the body to help increase circulation and release tension. In fact, the first texts documenting its use date back all the way to the Ming dynasty in China."
These tools have been used as a unique approach for holistic healing in China for 4000 years, Chen adds. And the literal translation in Mandarin is "to scrape sand." Traditionally, it's used all over the body to aid the flow of energy (qi).
What Are the Benefits of Gua Sha Tools?
For the face, a gua sha tool can reduce puffiness, lift muscles and contour, and promote elasticity in the skin. And the best part? You might see these effects immediately after using it.
But there is also a myriad of other benefits the tool has. "Gua sha is excellent for lymphatic drainage, addressing stagnant energy, promoting blood flow, soothing headaches, reducing inflammation, shortening acute illnesses like colds and flus, and releasing tension—from head to toe," Chen says.
How Do You Use a Gua Sha Tool?
Chen outlined some steps to take so you can make sure you're using your tool effectively:
1. Always start with a clean face.
2. Before doing gua sha, you want to make sure to prep your skin with something emollient like a face oil or a balm. You also want to apply an oil that's silky and doesn't absorb right away, like Pink Moon's Over the Moon Gua Sha Facial Oil, or you might tug your skin.
3. Keep the stone as flat and close to the skin as possible. Keep it at a 15-degree angle so you don't create unnecessary friction or tug your skin.
4. If you have an active acne breakout, just do gua sha on the chest and neck. This will help to increase circulation and decrease inflammation.
5. Always use slow strokes on the neck and face, and use upward and outward strokes on the face.
If you're ready to give it a try for yourself, scroll below for some options.
Gua Sha Tools to Try
With over 24,000 ratings and 4.5 out of five stars on Amazon, this gua sha tool is one of the highest rated on the retailer. It's made with 100% natural premium jade stone.
This set has everything you need for a gua sha treatment from head to toe. It comes with a gua sha scalp comb, body stone, and facial tool. Chen says Pink Moon's gua sha tool is heart shaped so it's versatile and easy to travel with and hold, making it great for beginners.
Who doesn't love a two-for-one product? This set includes both a gua sha and a jade roller. Use the gua sha for lifting and sculpting and the jade roller for muscle-tension relief.
There's a scalloped edge on this tool that makes it great for massaging. You can also use it on the scalp to help increase circulation.
With a unique shape (it kind of looks like a mustache, right?), this tool has six different edges with different functions—to sculpt, aid lymphatic drainage, release tension, define cheekbones, and plump fine lines.
Use this tool on your neck, face, and chest—it's made from natural volcanic obsidian.
The design on Osea's gua sha is to really define your facial contours.
The stainless steel makes it easier to clean.
Amethyst—which this tool is made of—is known for its tranquil, calming properties.
Face Oils to Use With Your Gua Sha Tool
I'm obsessed with this face oil. I especially like to use it when my skin is super parched because it hydrates so quickly.
For a drugstore option, you can't go wrong with Burt's Bees. It's a hydrating blend of rosehip, jojoba, and evening primrose oils.
Sunday Riley's Juno Oil is a blend of superfood seed oils that are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and essential amino acids. Not only is it hydrating, but it's also brightening.
This hydrating oil contains maqui (to fight free radicals), prickly pear (to hydrate and reduce redness), and açai (to support collagen.
The seaweed in this formula instantly moisturizes the skin and leaves it dewy and glowy. It supports the moisture barrier too.
Rosehip-seed oil is known to hydrate and act as an anti-inflammatory, and it can even help improve acne.
Next, Derms 100% Endorse These Under-$16 Body Lotions You Can Buy at the Drugstore
