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Hey beauty buddies, I’m super excited to chat with you about something that drastically improved my skin over the past few months – Gua Sha facial massage! I discovered Gua Sha during a particularly tough winter when my skin cried out for some TLC. I was sold on this ancient Chinese beauty technique that promised improved circulation, sculpted features, and an excuse to pamper myself a couple of times a week.
Today, I can’t imagine my evening skincare routine without it. My skin feels firmer and has this beautiful glow that wasn’t there before. Plus, the massage is a relaxing way to wind down after a long day. In this post, I want to introduce you to the magic of Gua Sha and share some of my favorite oils that take this facial massage to the next level. Grab your rose quartz tools, ladies and gents; it’s time to glow!
Understanding Gua Sha: The Basics
Before diving into my oil recommendations, let’s cover what Gua Sha is about. Gua Sha is a traditional Far East practice that uses a smooth-edged tool, typically made from semi-precious stones like jade or rose quartz, to stroke the skin. This ritual boosts circulation, enhances your complexion, and provides a sense of deep relaxation.
Choosing the perfect Gua Sha tool can be a puzzle. I’ve tried tools made from different materials; each is said to have healing properties. But honestly, I didn’t notice any significant difference. I recommend choosing a tool that feels comfortable and fits the contours of your face.
The Art of Gua Sha Facial Massage
When you’re ready to try Gua Sha, remember to be gentle with your skin. Use the tool in an upward and downward motion, increasing circulation and encouraging lymphatic drainage.
Pair your Gua Sha routine with facial oil. Not only does it protect your skin and help the tool glide smoothly, but it also enhances the absorption of all the lovely nutrients from the oil. Win-win, right?
The Wonders of Gua Sha
To recap, here’s what Gua Sha brings to your skincare routine:
- Boosts circulation for glowing skin
- Encourages lymphatic drainage to combat puffiness
- Flushed out toxins
- Smoothes fine lines and wrinkles
- Promotes skin elasticity by stimulating collagen production
- Brings relaxation and calm
The Perfect Partners: Facial Oils for Gua Sha
Now let’s delve into the fun part – the oils! The best facial oils for Gua Sha are lightweight, noncomedogenic, and nourishing.
Classic choices include rosehip, argan, grapeseed, jojoba, sweet almond, and marula oil. But there’s a whole world of oils blended with various ingredients that can help you address your specific skin concerns.
In this beauty roundup, I’m sharing my top picks of Gua Sha oils based on your skin type and concerns.
Gua Sha Oils: My Top Picks
The Ordinary – Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
Let me tell you why I fell head over heels for this beauty. First, it’s sustainably sourced and completely organic, which I love. It’s so essential for us to consider our planet while also taking care of our skin.
But the real star of the show here is the rosehip seed oil. Have you ever used rosehip oil before? If you haven’t, you’re in for a treat. This oil has a perfect consistency that’s simply ideal for gua sha. And not to mention the many skincare benefits that come with it – we’re talking hydration, protection against those nasty free radicals, and even wrinkle reduction. It’s like a mini fountain of youth in a bottle!
When I first tried this oil, it was during winter, when my skin usually resembled a desert (you know how it is!). But the rosehip oil worked wonders! It gave my skin much-needed moisture without feeling heavy or greasy – a massive plus in my book. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants that helped restore elasticity to my not-so-young-anymore skin and even helped fade some annoying dark spots I’ve been trying to get rid of.
But the best part? The glow, my friends, the glow! This oil leaves your skin with this soft, irresistible radiance. I still remember the first time I used it – I had just come home from a long day, and my skin was feeling somewhat irritated. I decided to try this oil, and let me tell you; it was love at first application. My skin felt soothed and looked radiant. I felt like I just walked out of a spa!
Now, you might wonder, what if I have sensitive or oily skin? Don’t worry; this oil is generally suitable for all skin types. It’s been a real game-changer for me, and it’s a great oil to start your gua sha journey with.
So, are you ready to glow and get your gua sha on? I’m sure you’ll love this oil as much as I do. Happy skincare-ing, beauties!
Charlotte Tilbury – Collagen Superfusion Firming & Plumping Oil
Drumroll, please… It’s the Charlotte Tilbury Collagen Superfusion Firming & Plumping Facial Oil. Trust me when I say this multitasking maestro has turned my skincare routine into a symphony of hydration, firming, and plumping.
Now, I won’t sugarcoat it – this oil is a splurge. But oh, is it worth it! Every drop is like a luxe treat for your skin, and you know what they say – you can’t put a price on self-care!
This lovely little potion is packed with plant-derived collagen, not to mention vitamins A & E. All these star ingredients combine to give your skin the gorgeous glow you’ve only dreamt about. It’s like turning on a lightbulb from within your skin, illuminating your natural beauty.
And here’s a little insider tip: Don’t limit this oil to your nighttime routine. Smooth it under your makeup for a flawless foundation application and a dewy finish that will leave people wondering about your skincare secrets. Your skin will look not just plump and radiant but absolutely runway ready!
So there you have it, my skin-loving pals. The Charlotte Tilbury Collagen Superfusion Oil isn’t just oil; it’s a love letter to your skin. Until next time, keep glowing!
Youth To The People – Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Oil
Do you ever have those days when your skin feels dehydrated and tight, and you’re just yearning for a rush of hydration? I’ve been there too! But then, I discovered this incredible oil. Its fast-absorbing formula means it dives deep into your skin almost instantly, providing much-needed hydration. The best part? You don’t have to wait ages for it to sink in before you can move on with your skincare routine or apply your makeup – this oil is fantastic for layering!
Now, let’s talk about my favorite part of any skincare product – the benefits. This isn’t just a regular oil that moisturizes your skin. Oh no, this is a superhero oil! Packed to the brim with antioxidants, it not only nourishes and hydrates but also helps improve your skin’s tone and texture. Remember those days of dull, lackluster skin? Consider the history!
I remember the first time I tried this product; it was a cold winter’s day, and my skin was as dry as the Sahara. I took a few drops of the Superberry Dream Oil, warmed it between my hands, and gently pressed it onto my face. It felt like a warm hug for my skin, and by the next morning, my complexion was glowing like a summer’s day. Truly, a dream come true!
So, if you’re on a quest for that ultimate hydration and glow, I cannot recommend the Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Oil enough. I promise your dry skin will thank you! Remember, beautiful skin is always in. Happy glowing, lovelies!
Farmacy – Honey Grail Ultra-Hydrating Face Oil
You know those moments when you want a skincare product that just sinks into your skin without leaving it feeling heavy or greasy? This face oil does exactly that. It’s fast-absorbing and, even better, non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog your pores. Talk about a win-win! And yes, it’s perfect for gua sha, too. It delivers such an intense level of hydration that you’ll wonder how your skin survived without it. Plus, it helps smooth those pesky fine lines and wrinkles we all dread so much.
But what makes this product really stand out, in my humble opinion, is its unique blend of ingredients. It’s got honey, sea buckthorn oil, and a blend of five fabulous flower oils. Now, if that isn’t a recipe for skincare magic, I don’t know what is!
Let me share a little anecdote with you. One winter, I was looking in the mirror, and I realized my skin was looking dull and dehydrated, with some fine lines becoming more noticeable. Then I discovered this darling. The honey provided soothing nourishment, while the sea buckthorn oil delivered a power-packed punch of antioxidants and vitamins. Within a week of use, my skin was glowing, hydrated, and looking happier than it had in months.
Herbivore – Orchid Antioxidant Beauty Face Oil
It’s a favorite of mine for gua sha, and I think you’re going to love it just as much as I do. Drum roll, please… introducing the Herbivore Orchid Antioxidant Beauty Face Oil!
Now, if you’re a regular here on my blog, you know I have combination skin. Finding the perfect balance between hydration and oil control can be quite the tightrope walk. But this luxurious oil checks all the boxes. It’s wonderfully hydrating without feeling heavy – it’s like a sip of water for your skin without the risk of a downpour!
What I absolutely adore about this oil is its all-star lineup of ingredients. It has a powerful blend of orchid extract, jasmine sambac, and Japanese camellia flower oil. If that isn’t a floral power trio, I don’t know what is!
But here’s the real deal: it’s packed with vitamins and fatty acids, including omega 3 and 6. I remember when I first started using this oil, I was having a bit of a skincare crisis. My skin was looking dull and showing signs of premature aging (a real wake-up call in your early thirties, let me tell you). But after introducing this oil into my routine, I noticed a visible difference – my skin looked more vibrant and youthful. It was like the oil was turning back the clock!
Not only does it hydrate, but it also defends your skin against free radicals, those nasty little troublemakers responsible for aging. Plus, it helps support your skin’s natural elasticity. That’s right – it’s like a personal bodyguard for your skin!
Biossance – Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil
Now, I’m sure you’ve heard me rave about this oil a few times before (like here and here), and there’s a reason for my unwavering adoration. Honestly, it’s just that good. This little bottle of joy has a special place on my skincare shelf and, more importantly, in my heart.
The Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil is like a tall glass of water for your skin that also serves up a vibrant cocktail of vitamin C. I’m talking serious hydration, people, thanks to the sustainable squalane it’s infused with. But hydration is just the tip of the iceberg.
Remember those days when you wake up, look in the mirror, and your skin just looks… well, blah? This oil is a total game-changer. Not only does it moisturize your skin, but it also brightens and firms it up, leaving you with a radiant, I-woke-up-like-this kind of glow.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – isn’t this a bit on the expensive side? Yes, my friends, it’s a bit of a splurge, but believe me when I tell you, it’s worth every single penny!
A little anecdote for you: I remember the first time I tried it. I was hesitant because of the price tag, but I decided to treat myself. After a week of using this oil, I was getting compliments on my skin left and right. People were asking me if I’d been on vacation because I was glowing like I’d spent a week on a tropical beach. That’s when I knew it was totally worth it.
Herbivore – Phoenix Rosehip Anti-Aging Face Oil
If your skin has been calling out for a boost of hydration and nourishment, prepare to meet your new best friend: the Herbivore Phoenix Rosehip Anti-Aging Face Oil.
Now, let’s talk about what’s inside this little bottle of magic. It’s a luxuriously rich blend of botanical oils and CoQ10, which sounds very scientific but is actually a super-powerful ingredient that helps revitalize and rejuvenate your skin. Believe me, it’s a game-changer!
One thing I adore about this oil is how beautifully it absorbs into my skin. It’s like it knows exactly what my skin needs and serves up a delicious cocktail of moisture, vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants. My skin basically drinks it up like a refreshing summer smoothie!
And trust me when I say this isn’t just any regular face oil. This gem has been an absolute lifesaver when it comes to addressing some of those nagging skin concerns. Are fine lines and wrinkles making unwelcome appearances? Is your skin looking a tad dry, or have you noticed a loss of firmness and elasticity? Trust me, the Phoenix Rosehip Anti-Aging Face Oil has got your back!
I remember a time when my skin was feeling particularly dry and tired. I felt like no matter what I did, it lacked the radiant glow that I love. I decided to give this oil a go, and the transformation was nothing short of remarkable. Within a few weeks, my skin was looking plumper, feeling more hydrated, and those fine lines? Considerably less noticeable. It was like my skin had risen from the ashes, much like its namesake, the Phoenix.
Josie Maran – 100 Percent Pure Argan Oil
What makes this oil so special? I’m glad you asked! The secret lies in its simplicity. This multitasking marvel contains just one ingredient – argan oil in its most pure, most potent form. That’s right! No unnecessary fillers, no complicated names you can’t pronounce, just pure, nurturing argan oil.
And this is great news for those of us with sensitive skin. Since it’s pure, there’s no need to worry about reactions from other additives. This oil is all about keeping it simple and clean. I remember the first time I used it; my skin literally sighed in relief. No redness, no irritation – just pure, skin-loving bliss.
But wait, there’s more! This isn’t just a one-trick pony. The Josie Maran Argan Oil is a bona fide multi-tasker. Beyond being a game-changer for your face, it can work wonders on your hair, hands, and nails too! Trust me on this, a few drops massaged into your cuticles or run through your hair can make all the difference. It’s like a spa treatment in a bottle!
Hot tip from yours truly: Keep a bottle of this argan oil on your bedside table. Before you hit the hay, massage a few drops into your hands and nails. You’ll wake up to soft, nourished hands and healthy-looking nails.
Kiehl’s – Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Concentrate
Now, let’s get personal for a moment. Every now and then, my skin decides to throw a bit of a tantrum, turning red and getting all irritated. It’s like it’s crying out for a big, comforting hug! And that’s exactly what the Kiehl’s Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil Herbal Concentrate delivers. It has an uncanny knack for relieving discomfort while calming and soothing my rebellious skin. Plus, it works tirelessly to strengthen my skin’s barrier and reduce visible redness.
But don’t be fooled into thinking this oil is a one-trick pony. Oh no, it goes above and beyond, tackling blemishes and uneven skin tone like a pro! I’ve been genuinely impressed with how it’s transformed my skin health and appearance.
The real magic comes from the potent combo of cannabis sativa seed oil and green oregano oil. These two work together like a dream team, delivering some seriously powerful benefits for problematic skin. And the results? Well, they speak for themselves. Since introducing this serum into my routine, my skin has been looking healthier, more balanced, and simply radiant!
Blume – Meltdown Oil for Acne Prone Skin
Now, we’ve all had those summer days where the heat seems to send our skin into a rebellious phase, right? Last summer, my skin decided it was the perfect time to throw a little party of its own – the oily skin and acne party. Not the kind of party I had in mind for a sun-soaked season!
Just when I was ready to wave the white flag, I stumbled upon the Blume Meltdown Oil for Acne Prone Skin. It’s like this magical potion had heard my skin’s SOS call. I decided to give it a whirl, and let me tell you, it felt like summer Christmas!
The difference this oil made was genuinely impressive. It was as if it had a heart-to-heart chat with my skin, helping it find its balance again. The blemishes that had been setting up camp on my face began to clear, but that’s not all.
You might think an oil for acne-prone skin would be all about blasting away oil and zapping those zits, but the Blume Meltdown Oil is so much more than that. It kept my skin hydrated and nourished, even on those scorching summer days. It felt like this oil truly cared for my skin, supporting it through its tough time and guiding it back to health.
Biossance – Sugarcane Squalane Oil
Picture this: A lightweight, quick-absorbing oil that feels as dreamy as a cloud and works wonders on oily skin. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it’s not! The Biossance Sugarcane Squalane Oil is the superhero your skin needs.
Now let’s talk about what makes this oil a true standout. It’s all in the powerful combo of sugarcane-derived squalane. Trust me when I say, this dynamic duo is like the dream team for your skin. They join forces to reduce the appearance of those pesky blemishes and enlarged pores we all love to hate, all while keeping your skin wonderfully hydrated.
But what makes it a gua sha superstar? It’s all about that slip-like texture. It absorbs super quickly and feels weightless on your skin – like a gentle, hydrating breeze. I’ve found that the Sugarcane Squalane Oil has the perfect consistency for a soothing gua sha massage on my oily skin.
One of my favorite things about this oil, apart from the incredible skin benefits, is its versatility. This is a multipurpose gem that has earned its spot in both my AM and PM skincare routines. It’s like the trusty best friend who’s always there when you need them.
So, if you’re looking for a skin-loving oil that does it all and won’t leave your skin feeling like an oil slick, the Biossance Sugarcane Squalane Oil is your go-to. Trust me, your skin will thank you. Until next time, stay beautiful, my friends!
La Mer – The Renewal Oil
I hope you’re ready for a little dose of luxury today. Grab your beauty wish list because you’re going to want to add this gem to it. The spotlight is shining brightly on the lavish La Mer Renewal Oil, a multitasking miracle worker that ticks all the right boxes.
Now, let me paint you a picture of this skincare superstar. Imagine a facial oil that not only quenches your skin’s thirst but also improves firmness, and gently softens those fine lines and wrinkles we’d all prefer to smooth out. Sounds dreamy, right? But wait, there’s more!
One of the things I adore about this oil is that it manages to provide all these benefits without causing breakouts. Yes, you heard it right, my friends! This is a hydrating oil that locks in moisture and leaves your skin feeling like it’s been pampered at a five-star spa, all without the fear of pesky pimples popping up.
Now, I’ll be honest with you – the La Mer Renewal Oil is definitely a splurge. But sometimes, we need to treat ourselves, right? And let me assure you, the reviews confirm it’s worth every penny! Users rave about the transformative effects this luxurious oil has on their skin.
5 Other Brands Worth Considering
Here are some of my personal favorites, each bringing something unique to the table:
- Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil: This oil is jam-packed with antioxidants and omegas 6 and 9. It’s fantastic for all skin types, and its hydrating and rejuvenating properties are a perfect match for a gua sha massage.
- Sunday Riley C.E.O Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil: If you’re looking for a brightening boost, this oil is your go-to. With vitamin C and turmeric, it gives your skin that radiant, fresh-from-vacation look we all love.
- Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum: While technically a serum, its rich consistency works perfectly for gua sha. It’s packed with 22 active botanicals that work synergistically to nourish, soothe, and rejuvenate the skin.
- Odacite Gr+G Grapeseed-Grapefruit Facial Serum Concentrate: Designed for oily skin, this lightweight serum concentrate is perfect for a non-greasy gua sha experience. It’s clarifying and fast-absorbing, making your skin feel refreshed and revitalized.
- RosehipPLUS Rosehip Oil: If you’re on the lookout for a budget-friendly option, look no further. This oil is filled with skin-loving vitamins and essential fatty acids, which can help improve the skin’s texture and radiance.
Remember, every skin type is unique, so what works for one person might not work for another. The key is to listen to your skin and choose an oil that best meets its needs.
7 Simple Steps To The Perfect Gua Sha Massage
Gua sha is such a wonderful skincare ritual, but it’s important to do it correctly to get all those fabulous benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can do your gua sha facial massage at home. And remember, always be gentle with your skin!
- Cleanse and prep your skin: Before you start, cleanse your face thoroughly. Pat your skin dry, then apply your favorite facial oil. This helps the gua sha tool glide smoothly without pulling on your skin.
- Hold the tool correctly: Hold the gua sha tool flat against your face, not at an angle. You want as much surface area of the tool in contact with your skin as possible.
- Start at the neck: Begin your massage at the neck and work your way up. This helps clear the lymphatic channels, preparing your face for the massage.
- Gentle strokes: Use upward and outward strokes on your face, always moving away from the center. For example, when working on your cheeks, start at the nose and move towards the ears. Repeat each stroke 3-5 times.
- Pressure points: Spend a little extra time on pressure points — like the sides of your nose and the middle of your eyebrows — for extra tension release.
- Be gentle around the eyes: The skin around your eyes is delicate, so lighten up your pressure in this area.
- Finishing up: To finish, sweep down the sides of your neck to your collarbones. This helps move any released toxins towards the body’s main filtration system: your lymph nodes.
With some patience and practice, you’ll become a gua sha pro in no time
Get The Right Tools For The Job!
Picking out your gua sha tool is a bit like finding the perfect pair of shoes – it’s all about what fits you the best! Here are a few options, each with their own unique advantages:
- Jade Gua Sha tools: Jade is the most common material for gua sha tools, and for good reason. It’s smooth, cooling, and excellent at reducing puffiness. Jade tools are perfect for sensitive skin, as they’re gentle and soothing. They are also easily available in different shapes to accommodate your facial contours. Sold by Mount Lai.
- Rose Quartz Gua Sha tools: Rose quartz holds a steady temperature and is great for reducing inflammation and tension. This makes it an excellent choice for acne-prone or inflamed skin. Sold by Herbivore.
- Bian Stone Gua Sha tools: Bian stone is an amalgamation of 40+ minerals known for their healing properties. It emits ultrasound pulsations, far infrared rays, and negative ions, all of which are beneficial for skin rejuvenation. If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, sold by Skin Gym.
- Amethyst Gua Sha tools: Amethyst has been known for its calming properties and it’s perfect if you want to add a touch of tranquility to your skincare routine. Plus, it’s pretty too! Sold by Revolve.
- Stainless Steel Gua Sha tools: If you’re worried about dropping and breaking your gua sha tool, stainless steel is a great choice. It’s easy to clean and durable. Sold by Skin Gym.
Remember, the right gua sha tool for you depends on your personal preference, skin type, and concerns. Take your time, do your research, and find the one that fits you the best.
Conclusion
So there you have it, my beauty-loving friends! From hydrating wonders to blemish busters, the world of facial oils is vast and varied, brimming with options that can help you transform your skincare routine, particularly if you’re a fan of the soothing gua sha massage. Remember, it’s essential to find a product that matches your skin type and concerns. Whether it’s dryness, sensitivity, or oiliness, there’s an oil out there that’s just right for you. Now, while some of these oils may require a bit more investment, they can provide some truly remarkable results, as testified by countless glowing reviews. But, as with any new skincare addition, always do a patch test first to ensure your skin agrees with the product. At the end of the day, what matters is your skin’s health and happiness. So, armed with this knowledge, why not dive into the world of facial oils and discover the wonders they can do for your skin? Happy experimenting, stay beautiful, and keep that radiant glow alive!
Feature image by Viva Luna Studios on Unsplash
