Here is the Gua Sha tool to help de-puff your face, says editor Trudi Brewer. Who shares a ritual that features in her weekly beauty regimen.
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Manicare Dermasculpt Gua Sha Stone, $40.
My fave, for size, shape and versatility, try MANICARE DERMASCULPT GUA SHA STONE, $40.
Here editor Trudi Brewer shares how she uses the stone for facial massage each week.
They're everywhere, and for a good reason. Ideal for DIY facials, a gua sha stone will take your skin routine to the next level. First up, a gua sha, pronounced "gwah-sha," is an ancient Chinese practice that translated, 'gua' means 'scrape,' and 'sha' means 'sand’. It was designed to complement massage and helps improve circulation, relax the muscles, and help with lymphatic drainage (reduce puffiness) while boosting oxygen and blood flow to the skin. While the shapes vary, a gua sha stone is flat, so it fits into your hand and is chiselled smooth to glide along the contours of your face and the entire body.
The benefits of gua sha massage
Once you perfect the technique and use it daily, the benefits include brightening and contouring the face, helping relieve jaw aching from teeth grinding at night, headaches, and sinus pressure. Also, reducing puffiness under the eye area, where fluid often accumulates overnight, laying flat while sleeping. In addition, the mental benefits of self-care are endless. Combined with breathing techniques, facial massage can help you feel balanced and relaxed.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use the Manicare Dermasculpt Gua Sha Stone
Apply a facial oil first, then gently glide the natural stone facial tool over areas of the face (concentrating on the jawline) or anywhere that needs lifting.
Each edge of the stone targets different concerns. The short and small curved edge lifts the forehead and above the brow and eye area.
The teeth-like-looking edge boosts circulation and plumps fine lines in the cheek area.
The pointed tip of the stone targets the acupressure points on the face to help relieve any facial tension, while the long edge was created on the side of the neck to de-puff and detoxify.
Finally, the U-shaped edge contours and sculpts the jawline and brow area.
Always work in an upward and outward movement. Think lifting at all times when using this stone, don’t drag on the skin downwards. Repeat eight to 12 strokes with each area you massage.
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