The Gua Sha has gained popularity as one of the most effective beauty tools and has become an essential part of the skincare routine of many. It is often used before makeup and in various phases of everyday life.

But what exactly is Gua Sha and when is the best time to use it? According to Katie Brindle, who spoke to net-a-porter.com, this tool could be the secret to a brighter and healthier cuticlebut also for a more restful sleep.

What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha originates from traditional Chinese medicine and is based on the use of a flat, smooth tool, usually made of jade or other crystal, that is gently passed over the skin. The word “gua” means to caress or rub and “sha” refers to redness or rash. While traditional Chinese healers apply intense pressure to the skin, the face requires a gentler approach to benefit from its properties.

Katie Brindle, a Chinese medicine therapist, says, “Gua Sha relaxes muscles, gets energy and blood moving and displaces any swelling. It boosts circulation – some studies show up to 400% – which removes toxins and brings in oxygen and nutrients.” Best described as a functional blend of massage and exercise, it helps release tension – great for headaches and a tight jaw – and makes skin look firmer, brighter and healthier.

How to use Gua Sha?

“You can do Gua Sha on the face, body and scalp, and it’s best to use it with water (in the shower, for example) or with some oil, but never on bare skin,” says Brindle. “Hold the tool flat on the skin, under the eyes or over any redness, to soothe and deflate.

Then use the curved side and work it into the skin, always making small strokes in one direction only, not back and forth,” she says. “Rub it along the neck, work it in small horizontal strokes over the brow bone to lift it, or hold it and press it up between the browbones to release tension. If you want to treat swelling, work lightly to move the fluid under the skin and then more firmly to relax the muscles.”

Is it better to use it in the morning or at night?

The Gua Sha technique remains the same whether you apply it in the morning or at night. However, at night you can focus more on the neck and jaw to promote sleep and release the tension of the day. In the morning, when skin often looks more tired and puffy, you can focus on the neck, cheeks and eyes to refresh your look.

Which Gua Sha to choose?

Which Gua Sha Crystal Should I Choose?

Jade is known for its balancing properties and ability to cool the skin, making it ideal for decongesting and treating inflammation. Rose quartz is associated with the heart and is ideal for the neck and chest, but can be stimulating so is best avoided at night. Amethyst is suitable for night and winter, while citrine is ideal for summer and mornings.

The true crystal connoisseur knows to first cleanse their crystal of past negative energies by washing it and then leaving it out overnight during the full moon. Truth or myth, this ritual suggests a nice way to cleanse your crystals and make them completely your own!