Gua Sha- The term and technique have been around for thousands of years, although its popularity is just recently coming to the forefront of the health and beauty industry. But what is it? The definition on Wikipedia describes gua sha as “part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in which a tool is used to scrape people's skin in order to produce light petechiae. Practitioners believe that gua sha releases unhealthy bodily matter from blood stasis within sore, tired, stiff or injured muscle areas to stimulate new oxygenated blood flow to the areas, thus promoting metabolic cell repair, regeneration, healing and recovery.”

GUA = to scrape or rub

SHA = petechiae or redness from increased circulation possible petechiae from the release of stagnation and toxins.

Gua Sha is an ancient technique used in many different forms. It’s traditionally used on the body to relieve areas of tension and stagnation. At Balanced Thistle, an acupuncturist may add this to your service if necessary or helpful along with your treatment.

BUT WAIT- Don’t worry. We aren’t “scraping” your face and making it red for a facial. Using Gua Sha for cosmetic purposes is quite a bit different!

If you book a Gua Sha Facial at Balanced Thistle, I will utilize the Gua Sha tool in a lighter fashion, working with the lymphatic system. The technique I use works on a superficial level, working lightly and intentionally to move lymph fluid and helping to create profound healing at a deeper level. The reduction of fine lines and wrinkles along with a de-puffing affect and overall improvement in texture and tone is always impressive. Studies from the The Journal of Chinese Medicine (Issue 123) says “ This case study investigated the use of gua sha in the treatment of facial expression lines and wrinkles. The results showed improvements in both, especially where there was a higher incidence of these features. There were also improvements in skin texture. These results provided cosmetic benefits and increased self-esteem for the patient. “

I continue to be amazed at the affects each time I do a facial using Gua Sha stones! Stones come in all different shapes, sizes, and stone type for all sorts of different purposes. I use an array of options throughout a facial. The lymphatic work provides a truly elevated level of relaxation (beyond a traditional facial) and the transformation in skin tone, texture, and even shape is undeniable. Seeing that change right before my eyes is so exciting and clients can see the difference for weeks to follow!

In my opinion the underlying benefit to your immune system is a “side effect” that needs more attention. Gua Sha can help guide your body to rid toxins (via lymphatic movement) and create better circulation. Increased circulation means more nutrient dense blood! This is why clients are literally glowing as they walk out the door- feeling better and looking stunning.

I have gone through extensive costmetic Gua Sha training and certification. It’s more than teaching myself from YouTube videos, it’s investing in education with some of the most famous Chinese Medicine practitioners who helped create and make famous the Gua Sha Facial! I’m able to combine my aesthetics license with my massage experience and training to optimize facial lymph, muscle, and skin care. A facial at Balanced Thistle goes so much further than topical products (but we pick the best of those too!). Book today if you want a truly unparalleled facial experience!

In Joy,

Kandi Arnold

LE, LMT

I am truly excited with the popularity of this tool and technique. I do highly encourage you to learn from a licensed professional. Some of my favorite tools are from https://beautysecretsus.com/cjb-patented-designs/. They graciously gave us a code KandiJo15 to get one time 15% off ANYTHING purchased (what a perfect time to get products and the perfect stone to create a routine). Remember the motive doing Gua Sha is to rid your body / skin of toxins. Another Balanced Thistle favorite is from a local brand, the H2a Rosehip and Saffron serum. https://www.h2abotanicals.com/ref/14/ using code KANDI10 and you can receive 10% off your purchase.

When you have purchased your tools and products a certified Gua Sha specialist can help train you. I guide my clients with a home routine and they start seeing a difference in a week ! Our bodies natural healing abilities are so intelligent if we guide them with intention and routine!

Blog written by Kandi Arnold, LE, LMT

Edited by Dr. Meghan Gray, DACM, L.Ac.