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We particularly advise gua sha therapy for reducing pain and inflammation as well as enhancing blood flow and collagen production. Studies have shown support for this claim and even advise it as an alternative therapy. Gua Sha can also be applied to the face, making it a useful skincare routine for face contouring.

But you must use an oil buffer to increase gua sha’s soothing effects and reduce skin abrasion. In this article, we’ll discuss the best oils that can be used during gua sha. 

Finding Oils To Use For Gua Sha

It’s crucial to select an oil for gua sha that works with your skin type. Because of the scraping technique employed in gua sha, a high-quality oil is essential.

A light-absorbing oil is suggested for oily skin types.

On the other hand, to hydrate dry skin, pick an oil that has emollient qualities.

Keep in mind that the oils will gradually absorb into your tissues. It’s crucial to pick an oil that won’t cause irritation or inflammation. For a skin hydrated, we advise using an unscented oil, saving the scented ones for use in an aromatherapy diffuser during the massage.

Best Face Oils For Gua Sha

The following facial massage oils are recommended:

Squalane Oil

Squalane which can be derived either from plants or the skin’s natural sebum production has a silky texture and a highly moisturizing quality that can help improve the elasticity of the skin itself. Because it is loaded with antioxidant properties, squalene can protect the skin from free radical damage. Squalene has a soothing and nourishing quality recommended for those with sensitive skin.

Rosehip Seed Oil

Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, rosehip oil can help improve skin tone and texture. Because it absorbs easily, it provides an excellent glide for gua sha. Rosehip oil can help with fine lines and wrinkles because of its rich cocktail of anti-aging ingredients like vitamins A and C, linoleic acid, oleum acid, lycopene, and retinol. Besides soothing the skin it delivers moisture and nutrients to the skin and skin barrier.

Jojoba Oil

Since jojoba is so similar to the natural oil production of the skin, it is a fantastic solution for all skin types. The skin is moisturized while the light texture gives the gua sha instrument optimal glide. Jojoba is abundant in antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins A and D in addition to their nutrient content. And because it closely resembles the sebum found in human skin, it effectively enters the skin to provide long-lasting moisture.

Plum Oil

Plum oil has great effects for moisturizing and brightening the skin. Because of the high quantity of fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins in plum oil, it is commonly used in skincare products. In addition to softening the skin, it protects it from developing wrinkles.

Blue Tansy Oil

Derived from the botanical extracts of the Tanacetum annuum plant, blue tansy oil contains a compound called chamazulene, which gives it its distinctive blue color and anti-inflammatory properties. Blue tansy has healing properties because it is full of antioxidants making it a very calming oil.

Chia Seed Oil

This oil, which comes from the seeds of the chia plant, is abundant in minerals, antioxidants, and substances that are good for the skin. Chia seed oil has a thick, opulent feel on the face and is extremely hydrating to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Cranberry Seed Oil

This oil is made from cranberries, which are well-known for having high levels of antioxidants, vital fatty acids, and vitamins. Rich in nutrients, cranberry seed oil may be beneficial for the skin, especially when combined with gua sha.

Specifically, cranberries are one of the most abundant sources of polyphenols, and vitamin E which helps promote elasticity and firmness. It also has the capacity to absorb all the nutrients because it consists of the ideal proportion of essential fatty acids for the skin.

What Ingredients To Avoid With Facial Oils For Gua Sha

When picking face oils for gua sha, keep in mind the following components to avoid or use with caution:

• PEGs (polyethylene glycols): PEGs are humectants and skin conditioners found in creams, lotions, and hair care products. However, dermatologists caution that PEGs may irritate the skin.
• Methyl and propyl parabens: These are preservatives with reputations for being hormone disruptors. Parabens hinder substances with anti-estrogenic characteristics, according to researchers.
• Formaldehyde: Preservatives like formaldehyde, which is frequently found in soaps and shampoos, can irritate skin and trigger allergies. All skin and hair care products should be free of formaldehyde, according to scientific researchers.
• Phthalates: Used to make plastic stronger, phthalates can also be used in skin care scents. However, doing so could cause hormone disruption.
• Oxybenzone: In Key West and Hawaii, oxybenzone, which is frequently used in sunscreen, was outlawed. Both hormonal disruption and allergic responses may result from this compound.

Worst Facial Oils For Gua Sha

Some oils that might not be the ideal option for gua sha include the following:

• Heavy oils: Castor oil and olive oil are examples of oils with a thick or heavy consistency that may not provide the best glide for gua sha. Furthermore, the rate of absorption for these oils is typically slower.
• Highly fragrant oils: Some essential oils, like lavender or tea tree oil, have strong fragrances that can be overpowering or irritating to the skin. Because gua sha involves prolonged contact with the oil, it’s best to avoid fragrant oils that potentially cause skin sensitivity or irritation.
• Comedogenic oils: Comedogenic oils, such as coconut and wheat germ oil, are more likely to clog pores, which can cause congestion and breakouts. To reduce the chance of pore obstruction during gua sha, we advise using non-comedogenic oils or oils with a low comedogenic grade.
• Oils high in oleic acid: Fatty acids like oleic acid are frequently present in oils from foods like almonds, avocados, and hazelnuts. While some skin types may benefit from these oils, gua sha’s advantages are not fully realized because of the oils’ high linoleic acid content. Linoleic has a lighter texture and is more suited for gua sha since it is more readily absorbed by the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What oil should I use with Gua Sha?

Besides the oils we’ve mentioned, you might want to ask your gua sha practitioner about using a blended oil, especially if you’re seeking gua sha for pain relief.

For instance, in a 2018 study that was published in the Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, customers showed the greatest acceptance of an aroma massage oil that contained the oils of rosemary, lavender, patchouli, eucalyptus, and peppermint. This mixture of oils was created to relieve muscle tension and was safety-tested.

What oil is the best for Gua Sha?

Jojoba oil may be the best oil for gua sha based on a 2021 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science. Besides jojoba, this study reviewed sweet almond oil and evening primrose for skin care applications. Researchers found that these oils have various skincare benefits for both adult and juvenile applications such as stratum corneum integrity, recovery, and lipid ratio.

What can I use with Gua Sha without oil?

Gua Sha can be used in conjunction with a serum or moisturizer if oil is not your thing. However, keep in mind that the gua sha must be used with a buffer to avoid the instrument pulling at your skin, which is not what you want.

What oil to use with the jade roller and Gua Sha?

When using a jade gua sha massage tool, we advise using an oil like the popular choices we’ve mentioned:

• Squalane oil
• Rosehip Seed oil
• Jojoba oil
• Plum oil
• Blue tansy
• Chia seed oil
• Cranberry seed oil

Can I use moisturizer instead of face oil for Gua Sha?

Yes, a moisturizer does function similarly to an oil. For the gua sha tool to function properly and without creating any irritation, be sure to prepare your skin by making it slick and hydrated. It is particularly important when applying gua sha on the face.

Conclusion

The research done by Find It Health professionals has shown that in general, when considering skincare oils, there are several properties to keep in mind that can help you choose the most suitable oil for your needs. These are some crucial qualities to take into account:

• Absorption: While some oils are deeper in consistency and take longer to absorb, others have a lighter texture and absorb more rapidly.
• Moisturizing and hydrating: These oils support replenishment and moisture retention, keeping the skin supple and velvety, with a noticeable dewy glow.
• Nourishing: Some oils are a good source of vitamins, antioxidants, and important fatty acids, which nourish the skin.
• Anti-inflammatory and calming: For people with redness, inflammation, or skin problems like eczema, rosacea, or other dark spots, these oils may be helpful.
• Antioxidant-rich: Antioxidants help to maintain a youthful appearance and can slow the aging process.
• Non-comedogenic: These oils have a lower propensity to clog pores and worsen acne-prone skin conditions.
• Scent and sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritated skin, opt for oils without added fragrances.

A lot of people discover gua sha to be a soothing and delightful addition to their skincare regimen.

If you decide to try gua sha, it’s important to learn proper techniques to avoid any discomfort or skin inflammation. If you have any specific skin concerns or conditions, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist before incorporating gua sha into your skin health regimen.