Crystal Clear Skin Care
Traditional Chinese medicine has gone mainstream with the popularity of gua sha and face rollers.
Traditional Chinese medicine has gone mainstream with the western world’s newfound interest in gua sha. These crystalline beauty tools were one of the most sought after wellness trends of 2019 and it has only grown in popularity since. Including this technique in your daily routine is said to help with three forms of circulation: blood, lymphatic and chi (the energy that flows through everyone’s body). This goes for gua sha as well as crystal face rollers but, though both are paired with a hydrating mist and/or oil, there is a slight difference between the two.
“We consider that beauty is the exterior manifestation of interior health. This stands to good reason as you never look your best when you are feeling unwell. The idea is, focus on your health and beauty will follow.”
— Katie Brindle, a Chinese medicine expert, to HuffPost
Face rollers are typically made of jade or rose quartz, though a variety of other stones can be used for the same intents and purposes. This tool requires very light pressure and is ideal for beginners who may be seeking a method that’s easier to grasp (conceptually, not physically).
Gua sha requires a bit more guidance, as these tools are designed to have more angular elements that are used on specific parts of the face to sculpt and contour. As opposed to a face roller, this method is able to get a bit deeper and nurtures skin elasticity by applying firmer pressure.
To learn more about how to properly use a gua sha, check out the following how-to video by a professional Chinese medicine practitioner:
Many gua sha practitioners believe that when chi becomes stagnant, it causes inflammation, so the energy needs to be stimulated in order for healing to occur. It is because of this concept that gua sha is used to address chronic pain issues, specifically in regard to conditions like arthritis. Though there is very little research being conducted around this, some singular case studies have found that relief may be found by those experiencing the likes of migraines, neck pain, breast engorgement, pre-menopausal syndrome, Hepatitis B and even Tourette syndrome.
Some medical practitioners are wary of how effective this treatment actually is. Even when used as directed, it may or may not be able to reach the layer of skin necessary to see the advertised results like clear skin and wrinkle reduction. But there is very little, if any, risk involved, so most would agree that there’s no harm in the practice as long as it resonates with you.
As for the metaphysical side, the energies you activate will depend on the type of gemstone that has been used to create your tool. Check out some of our top picks, with additional details about the healing properties of the crystals that have been incorporated.
