As the head of the wellness coach team at Find It Health, I aim to provide in-depth research on whether you can perform Gua Sha in the shower.

Gua Sha is a form of body massage with roots in Chinese Medicine that involves scraping the skin with a flat massage tool to improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage.

Here, we will discuss to what extent Gua Sha can be performed in the shower. Several factors need to be considered when deciding if this practice is appropriate.

Gua Sha In The Shower

Chinese Medicine practitioners recommend doing the Gua Sha facial massage on lubricated and moisturized skin to prevent irritation and inflammation. The slippery skin needed for the smooth motion of the massage tool can be best achieved in the shower. 

The steam or water from the shower can be used to achieve the smooth gliding movement of the massage tool so that bruising and inflammation of any skin type can be avoided, as in cupping.

How To Lubricate Your Skin For Gua Sha

Massage your face with water before using Gua Sha. You may also apply a quarter-sized puddle of oil on your face, neck, and décolletage before you start your facial routine. Do not use it on bare skin. The moisture from the oil and water will lubricate your skin enough for Gua Sha to depuff your skin. 

Using Gua Sha without lubrication will increase friction between the tool and the skin, which may result in rash and redness. You might have to apply oil or lotion throughout the treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to perform Gua Sha in the shower?

Yes, it is safe to perform Gua Sha in the shower, but one should avoid using the tool too vigorously after a hot shower as it can lead to inflamed skin and irritation.

Care must be taken not to drop the massage tool in the shower as Gua Sha tools made of stones like jade or rose quartz will break when dropped on a hard surface, leading to accidents and potential injuries.

What are the potential benefits or drawbacks of doing Gua Sha in the shower?

Benefits of Gua Sha:

1. Gua Sha can improve lymphatic flow and blood circulation in the jaw, face, and other targeted areas. There is also evidence that supports its role in lowering fluid retention, thereby easing cellulite.

2. Performing Gua Sha stimulates collagen production which helps diminish the puffiness of the face. This also makes wrinkles and fine lines appear soft.

3. Gua Sha can positively impact inflammation. Research shows that Gua Sha may relieve pain and tightness temporarily or permanently.

4. This Chinese Medicine technique can also temporarily reduce dark circles and tighten sensitive skin.

5. By tightening facial muscles around the jawline and cheekbone area, Gua Sha can lift your features and give your face a sculpted look.

Drawbacks:

Gua Sha, if done properly, is safe and has many medical advantages. However, you may experience slight bruising and discoloration of the skin. You may also be sore and tender post-treatment. This is why you should keep a gentle hand with the tool. 

Gua Sha is not recommended for people who are taking medication for blood clots. Those with rashes or sunburns are also advised against using Gua Sha. 

Can Gua Sha tools be used with water or in a steamy environment like the shower?

Yes, Gua Sha may be used with water or in a steamy environment like the shower.

The water acts as a lubricant for the treatment and allows you to gently massage the desired area.

The moisture from the water and the steam aids the tool to function smoothly and give the best results.

Are there any specific precautions to take when practicing Gua Sha in the shower?

One must be careful not to drop the Gua Sha tool when using it in the shower. If the tool slips from your hand, it will break into shards, which may result in injuries. Moreover, water can allow Gua Sha to glide across your skin: you must not apply too much pressure as it can cause your skin to turn red. 

How does the steam and water in the shower affect the efficacy of Gua Sha and its effects on the skin?

Steam and water reduce the chances of rash and irritation of the skin as they make the surface of your skin smooth before the Gua Sha massage tool can run across it. Thus, they act as lubricants for the Gua Sha to gently massage the skin without running the risk of inflammation. 

Conclusion

The comprehensive research conducted by Find it Health indicates that Gua Sha can be performed in the shower as long as you are careful with it. The treatment is lubricated by water and steam, so it is important to apply it with proper lubrication and gentle pressure to prevent redness and irritation.