From the Research
Gua sha is a beneficial technique for mature skin, as it increases microcirculation, which can help improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and enhance facial contours, as evidenced by a study on the microcirculatory effects of Gua Sha 1. To practice gua sha on mature skin, it is essential to use a gentle approach to avoid damaging delicate skin.
- Use a smooth-edged tool, such as jade or rose quartz, with a gentle facial oil to reduce friction and promote circulation.
- Apply light to medium pressure while scraping upward and outward along the face and neck, focusing on areas with more pronounced signs of aging like the jawline, cheekbones, and forehead.
- Perform the technique 2-3 times weekly for 5-10 minutes per session, as this frequency and duration can help stimulate blood flow and lymphatic drainage without causing excessive stress on the skin. The increased microcirculation caused by gua sha, as shown in the study 1, can help deliver nutrients to skin cells and remove waste products, boosting collagen production and relaxing facial muscles that contribute to expression lines.
- Gua sha has been found to cause a fourfold increase in microcirculation at the treated area, which may play a role in local and distal decrease in myalgia, and this increase in circulation can also benefit mature skin by improving its texture and firmness.
- Females have been shown to respond significantly better to gua sha than males, with a higher increase in microcirculation, which may be relevant when considering the use of gua sha for mature skin 1.