Gua sha specialist Donna Ryan and Chinese medicine and skin expert Ada Ooi explains why a few minutes of gua sha can help rejuvenate mature skin by enhancing circulation, releasing tension and softening fine lines.
If you have been noticing more fine lines on your face, experiencing puffiness and looking for ways to release tension from your face, the abundance of products and natural remedies on the internet can seem daunting. While there is effective skincare and makeup for mature skin, there are ways to help your skin glow from within to make you look more youthful and rejuvenated, such as using face massagers. Gua sha is one such method rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and a good gua sha tool will be an investment that your face and skin reflects. This is why we have rounded up the best gua sha tools for mature skin along with expert guidance on how to use them.
What is Gua Sha?
The term ‘gua sha’ originates from the Chinese word for ‘scraping’ and the practice involves using a smooth-edged tool to scrape or massage skin in a single direction coupled with the use of an oil for lubrication and warming movements. According to Ada Ooi, a certified Chinese medicine practitioner and founder of 001 Skincare London, this facial massage works by stimulating blood circulation and promoting lymphatic drainage.
Benefits of gua sha
Incorporating gua sha into your skincare routine comes with several benefits. “The massage alleviates tension and moves stagnated fluids which helps to reduce puffiness, swelling and inflammation. The repeated motion is also what helps define facial contours to give you a more sculpted look,” says Ada Ooi.
“The enhanced blood circulation helps to even out skin tone and above all, relax your facial muscles to release accumulated tension and unwind after the day,” she adds.
How does gua sha work for mature skin?
Ada Ooi explains how, when practiced regularly, gua sha can reduce signs of ageing. “Wrinkles and fine lines are caused by a combination of ageing and habitual expressions. Making gua sha a regular routine helps break down the fascial adhesion created and visibly smooth these lines.”
“This also helps to improve the absorption of skin products which is crucial for mature skin. This is because mature skin is more prone to water loss with estrogen levels dropping, leading to dry skin and piling of dead skin on the surface,” she says.
The enhanced circulation and massage also helps to improve the skin’s elasticity and suppleness, thereby contributing to a more youthful appearance.
Types of gua sha tools
Gua sha tools are made of a variety of materials, all of which serve different purposes. The most common stones used are Rose Quartz and Jade, both of which are rooted in Chinese tradition as explained by Terri Gerritsen, founder of Terri Jade Skin & Wellness, a brand that specialises in self-care beauty tools.
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Rose Quartz is the stone of unconditional love and compassion, making this the perfect stone for those self-care moments according to Gerritsen. The benefits of Rose Quartz also include enhancing circulation, relaxation, and the body's natural healing abilities.
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Jade is said to be a protective stone that blesses those who touch it. The special properties of Jade lies in its ability to soothe issues like headaches, inflammation, stress and promote overall wellbeing. It is also more durable than Quartz and does not break as easily if it is dropped.
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Black Obsidian also known as the Bian stone is highly recommended by Ada Ooi as it is made of over 40 minerals and the stone emits far infrared rays making each massage more efficient. It can also be warmed or cooled depending on the skin's condition and the goal of the session.
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Kansa is another material that is used to make gua sha tools. Rooted in Indian Ayurvedic wellness practices, there are several benefits of using Kansa, which is also known as the ‘healing metal’. It is made of copper which rejuvenates the skin and stimulates lymphatic drainage along with its antibacterial properties.
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Stainless steel is another alternative to crystal stone gua sha tools. The benefits of a stainless steel gua sha tool include low maintenance as they are not porous like crystal stone which require more thorough cleaning after every use. They are also more durable and less fragile than crystal stones. The cold metal is ideal for reducing puffiness, dark circles and stimulating cells to produce more collagen which results in smoother skin, a more lifted look and reducing fine lines.
Gua sha tools also come in a variety of shapes, all which serve different purposes and focus attention to different parts of the face.
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Heart-shaped tool – This is the most commonly used one and is perfect beginners according to expert Terri Gerritsen. The shape offers good grip along with a concave and convex side to focus on smaller curves on the face.
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Wing-shaped tool – For those who on the lookout for a broader tool, this shape that can be used to target specific areas on the face and other larger areas on the body. The winged surface is perfect to massage the cheekbones, forehead, and brow bone.
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The S-shaped tool – This shape is more versatile as it can be used on several parts of the body and it is often a medium-sized tool.
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Square-shaped tool – With a broad surface on one end offering good grip and a dip between two raised ends on the other end, this tool is especially good for catching the jawline between the raised ends and massaging.
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Fish-shaped tool – This shape is perfect for applying deep pressure on smaller areas as the length offers good grip and the tail-end presses down on areas like the shoulder, calves or the back for a focused massage.
Best gua sha tools
Best gua sha tool overall
www.sephora.co.uk
The Honey Belle Jade Gua Sha tops our list of the best gua sha tools owing to its quality, versatility and affordability. This Jade gua sha tool can be used on the face and neck to increase elasticity in the skin, reduce under-eye bags and even out the skin tone. The Jade stone which is known to bring prosperity and peace adds to the relaxation aspect of the gua sha practice. It is also a much sturdier stone than Rose Quartz which makes the tool stronger and more likely to survive falls and pressure. People who have used the tool have shared in the reviews that their skin visibly looks more energised and that the gua sha has reduced the appearance of fine lines. So if you are looking to rejuvenate your skin, then this tool could help you get started.
Pros
- Jade stone makes it sturdier and stronger to survive falls
- Comes with a pouch to store the tool and keep it clean
Cons
- A heart-shaped stone is recommended for beginners, so it might take some time to get used to the shape
Best gua sha tool for beginners
www.boots.com
The Botanics Rose Quartz Gua Sha is a heart-shaped tool that is perfect for beginners as it offers a good grip with no complications when it comes to massaging. The easy curves of the hand-crafted tool are designed to flow smoothly along the contours of your face, brow bone and jawline. The Rose Quartz stone also embodies healing and love which adds more value to the gua sha practice and with regular use, the tool helps to reduce puffiness and fine lines.
Pros
- The shape is easy to hold and manoeuvre for beginners
- Rose quartz stone is said to enhance the body's natural healing abilities, thereby combating signs of ageing
Cons
- Rose quartz is not very sturdy as a stone and some reviews mention that the tool is not very durable
Best value gua sha tool
www.lookfantastic.com
This Revolution Skincare Jade Gua Sha offers good value for the money with a traditional Jade stone that aims to lift sagging skin and brighten complexion by promoting circulation and relaxing tension. Reviews mention that the tool was bigger than expected which would provide a better grip while using it.
Pros
- The tool offers good value for the money
- The bigger size makes it easier to grip while using it
Cons
- Some reviews mention that tool can break if it is placed down harshly on hard surfaces
Best expert recommended gua sha tool
www.greenpeople.co.uk
Skin expert Ada Ooi recommends Black Obsidian stones, also known as Bian stones for high-quality results. “I've grown up using Bian Stones and practised with them seeing great results for almost 20 years, so I would also advise my clients to use them,” she says. Given the benefits of the stone, this Black Obsidian Gua Sha Tool is a great choice that helps to lift, sculpt and depuff your face by promoting more circulation. The warming stone is also ideal for contouring your cheeks and chin.
Pros
- The black obsidian stone is expert recommended for gua sha tools
- Comes with a small pouch to store the tool and keep it clean
Cons
- One of the reviews mention that it is not very comfortable for use on the forehead
Best Jade gua sha tool
www.selfridges.com
Carved out of the Jade gemstone, this gua sha tool is an investment your skin will thank you for. Jade is known for its sturdiness and healing properties. According to Chinese medicine traditions, using a Jade gua sha regularly will help to relax facial muscles, release toxins and rejuvenate your skin to restore a youthful energy. The tool is also guaranteed to last as the stone is quite durable.
Pros
- The tool will be durable as the jade stone is very sturdy
Cons
- The product falls in a higher price range
Best gua sha tool for mature skin
The Rose Quartz stone is known to emanate love, harmony and emotional healing. This makes a gua sha tool made of Rose Quartz the perfect accompaniment for a relaxing and healing massage that will help to depuff, smoothen fine lines and wrinkles and refresh your skin to bring a youthful glow. While it relieves muscle tension, it also tightens and firms your skin. Reviewers have shared that the tool has helped them to achieve a natural look where their cheeks appear more contoured and sculpted. So if you are looking to add a relaxing self-care routine to your schedule, then this tool will be a good addition to your skincare collection.
Pros
- It is made out of 100% natural Rose Quartz stone
- It comes with an eco-friendly canvas travel bag
Cons
- Rose Quartz as a stone is not as sturdy as Jade
Best gua sha tool for reducing fine lines
hayoumethod.com
Jade is a crystal that encompasses healing energy and is said to have relaxing effects which makes it perfect as a gua sha tool. Coupled with targeted massages on the forehead, cheekbones and neck, this Jade gha sha tool can help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles to restore a youthful glow to the skin. Crafted from the finest natural Jade Stone, these tools are sure to be a brilliant investment for your skincare.
Pros
- Comes with a pouch to store the tool and keep it clean
- The Jade stone is known for refreshing mature skin
Cons
- It is part of a limited edition, so the products may run out of stock
Best low-maintenance Gua Sha Tool
www.lookfantastic.com
If you are on the lookout for a low-maintenance gua sha tool then the Kitsch Stainless Steel Gua Sha Tool will be a good purchase. As it is stainless steel, it is more tough and durable than crystal gua sha tools. This makes it more sustainable as well. The cold metal helps in reducing puffiness and sculpting the face. Unlike crystal stones, stainless is non-porous which prevents the build-up of dirt, making it very easy to clean after every use.
Pros
- Easy maintenance as stainless steel is not porous which prevents the build-up of dirt
- Cold metal enhances the perfomance of gua sha if you require a cooling effect
Cons
- Does not provide the benefits of a crystal or semi-precious stone
9.
Kansa wand
Best antibacterial gua sha tool
fushiwellbeing.com
This tool which originates from India is made of an alloy composed of 78% copper and 22% tin. Copper which has antibacterial properties helps to bring about healing and cooling. Massage with the Kansa wand is aimed at detox, rejuvenation of dull skin and reducing fine lines. The teak wood handle also provides a good grip while using the tool.
Pros
- The wooden handle provides a good grip
- Copper metal helps in cooling and is antibacterial which prevents any build-up of dirt
Cons
- It does not have a flat surafce like most gua sha tools
Best gua sha tool for jawline massage
www.skingymco.com
If you are looking for a gua sha tool that can specifically grip the contours of your face and target areas like the jawline and cheekbone, then this Skin Gym Square Rose Quartz Gua Sha will be the perfect addition to your skincare routine. Built with two ridges and a dip in between them to catch the curves of your face, this gua sha tool can help in effective lymphatic drainage and sculpting your face. The Rose Quartz crystal also enhances the glow and brightens your skin.
Pros
- The shape offers a good grip for the curves and contours of your face
Cons
- Since Rose Quartz is more fragile than Jade, you should avoid applying too much pressure and handle the tool carefully
Best winggua sha tool for
www.greenpeople.co.uk
This Jade Gua Sha Massage Tool is perfect for those who are looking for a gua sha tool that can focus on small areas like the brow bone and cheekbone. As a facial massage gua sha tool, the ridges of the wing shape helps in effective lymphatic drainage, enhancing circulation, depuffing and lifting the face. Reviews mention that people have seen visible differences around the eye area where the skin appears brighter and more lifted. So if you are looking for a gua sha tool that is will specially take care of your face, this is the product to go for.
Pros
- Comes with a small bag to store the tool and keep it clean
- The bigger size offers a good grip for massage
Cons
- It would require a few attempts to get the massaging techniques right as it comes with more ridges than the common heart-shaped tool
Best premium gua sha tool
thefind.co
If you are looking for a high-quality gua sha tool, this Lanshin Intro Gua Sha tool that is made out of top grade Xiuyan Jade adhering to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine Dermatology is the perfect choice. By promoting healthy circulation, this gua sha tool release tension, lift your features, brighten your skin and target issues like blocked sinuses and headaches. The Jade material is sure to last for a long time and with the healing properties it brings, this gua sha tool will definitely be a good investment in your skincare routine.
Pros
- The tough Jade crystal will last long
- It helps to make skin look firmer and younger while also helping with issues like blocked sinuses and headaches
Cons
- Falls in a higher price range
Best gua sha tool for body massage
www.naydaya.com
The Naydaya gua sha tool is designed with 4 sculpting surfaces for massaging the face, body and scalp with curves and ridges that is meant to focus on small areas and large surfaces alike. The naturally cooling stainless steel material helps to depuff, release tension and enhance lymphatic drainage. Reviewers share that it smoothly glides along the body and it also helps in lightening stretch marks with regular practice. So if you are looking for a gua sha tool that can be used as a good body massager as well, this is the product to go for.
Pros
- Stainless steel material makes it easy to clean
- It is more durable than crystal tools
- Can be used on the while body
Cons
- The tool does not come with the benefits of crystals or semi-precious stones
How to use a gua sha tool?
To gather some expert insight on how to use a gua sha tool the right way, we spoke to Donna Ryan, a Holistic Facialist & Gua Sha Specialist who conducts gua sha workshops, treatments and courses. She shared her trusted procedure with us.
“Always start at the neck and work firmly upwards to release tension, people hold a lot of tension in their neck, those tight muscles can start to pull the facial muscles down,” says Donna.
“Then work from the centre of your face outwards- for example, from your jaw to your ear using upwards strokes. You can do this movement all the way up to your hairline.”
When it comes to number of strokes, she mentioned that you can do as many as what you feel you need, but 3-7 is a good number to follow.
In terms of how often you need to practice it, Ada Ooi recommends to do a gua sha massage at least once a week. However, you can also do a gua sha eye massage in the morning to depuff eyes.
“While exerting pressure, the general rules are to use light pressure on delicate areas like the eyes and on top of cheeks and medium to firm pressure on areas like the jaw and back of the skull,” she adds.
Expert approved daily gua sha routine
If you are looking for a good daily gua sha routine to follow, this technique shared by expert Terri Gerritsen is a good place to start.
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Start by applying your favourite serum or face oil.
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Hold your gua sha tool with the curved side to your face and glide it gently up and out, working from the centre of your face outward.
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Start with your neck, jawline, chin, and around the mouth
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This should be followed by your cheeks, under-eyes, eyebrows, and forehead with at least three to five strokes per area.
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Always take short strokes in just one direction, not back and forth, and with light to medium pressure.
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To soothe and de-puff following this, place the tool flat to the skin, under the eyes or over any redness.
FAQs
How to choose the right gua sha tool?
There are a number of factors that go into choosing the right gua sha tool for you. You can choose a tool for the crystal if you are particular about using a specific gemstone for its benefits and healing properties. However, if you are looking for a gua sha that is easy to clean and low maintenance, the stainless options are the best. You can also pick a tool based on the purpose of your gua sha practice. If the goal is to enhance the appearance of ageing skin and bring a more youthful glow to the skin, it is important to choose a tool with a flat surface to target areas like fine lines on the forehead along with curves to catch smaller areas like the cheekbones and jawline.
As the founder of a brand that focuses on beauty and skincare tools, Terri Gerritsen believes in going for quality. “Cheap Gua Sha tools are usually made from synthetic materials which could be leaking toxins and dyes into your skin and can break easily. Spending a little extra would bring you genuine stones, ensuring that your beauty tool is durable and you reap all the benefits from the stone you are using,” she says.
"Buying a gua sha tool can be a once in a lifetime purchase if looked after properly. In China it is common for families to pass down their gua sha tools. I know people who have gua sha tools that are over 100 years old. So when making a purchase, make sure the tool has come from a good place,” adds expert Donna Ryan.
What oil to use with gua sha?
Expert Ada Ooi recommends the use of oil serums that are designed for massages and to nourish the skin. Massage oils should be light so that they do not clog the pores while also providing good lubrication for gua sha.
“For mature skin we recommend oils rich in vitamin A, squalane and omega fats. Anti-inflammatory oils that contain watermelon and other soothing substances that are very light are suitable for oily and sensitive skin,” she adds.
While squalane, argan oil and jojoba oil is good for most skin types, Donna Ryan recommends taking the oil off later if your skin is acne-prone.
Are there any risks involved in gua sha?
Ada Ooi explains the importance of not overpulling your skin with too much pressure or stretching. “This can happen if you practice gua sha on your face dry without an oil. While dry gua sha does exist in Chinese Medicine for the body, I would not recommend it for the face,” she says.
“Technique is important and applying the right pressure is also very important. You also cannot use a gua sha tool over active acne or rosacea. If you go to a properly trained gua sha therapist you can still have the treatment done on your body and not your face,” Donna Ryan adds.
Meet the experts
Ada Ooi is a certified Chinese medicine practitioner and founder of 001 Skincare London. She is one of London’s most sought after wellness practitioner and aesthetician with over two decades of experience and she is known for her red carpet work, from the Oscars to the Baftas.
Donna Ryan is a Holistic Facialist & trained Gua Sha Specialist who conducts gua sha workshops, treatments and courses in London. She strives to increase awareness about holistic healing and embracing our connection to nature with her practice.
Terri Gerritsen is the founder of Terri Jade Skin & Wellness, a brand that specialises in authentic self-care beauty tools that are sourced from 100% natural and genuine materials.
Akhila Thomas is a digital writer at Yours.co.uk and her areas of interest are beauty, fashion, food, wellness and lifestyle. She has previously written for magazines like Leftlion, Women’s Health and t’Art and worked extensively with art, culture, fashion and social media trends. She also likes to travel and explore new cultures and cuisines.