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If you have acne-prone skin and you want nonprescription treatment for acne, then which one will you choose? I don’t know what you would prefer, but if you ask me the same question, then I’ll suggest you choose Gua Sha. But “does Gua Sha help with Acne?”- could be a common question If you are unfamiliar with it. 

Yes, Gua Sha can help reduce the size of acne by moving congestion and improving circulation. It works on dermal and epidermis layers of the skin, clearing chronic white and blackheads and even stops hormonal acne.  

The Gua Sha technique is one of the skin care blasts that blew up on TikTok and became one of the biggest skincare trends in 2020. Let’s learn more about the Gua Sha tools and acne treatment.

What is Gua Sha? Things you need to know

In a word, Gua Sha is a skincare technique that requires using the Gua Sha massage tool made out of specific kinds of stones. It is a skin therapy technique that involves brushing the Gua Sha tool along the skin in a particular motion. 

The use of the Gua Sha has significantly increased in modern times due to its soothing effect and outstanding results in treating acne.  It allows the skin to heal faster. 

The Gua Sha technician massages oil on your skin then gently scrapes the Gua Sha massage tool on the areas where there is inflammation. 

They brush the tool in long strokes, which helps improve blood circulation as the microcirculation tissues are stimulated. These soothing strokes repeatedly scrape downwards on your skin, facilitating chronic breakout reduction.

Does Gua Sha Help with Acne and Hormonal Acne?

People often think they should not use the Gua Sha technique when they have acne-prone skin; however, that is not the case. 

Gua Sha is used differently for different types of acne. Some types of acne, such as cystic acne, require more care and gentler motions. 

In regular or hormonal acne, the pressure applied should be gentle but a little hard so the microcirculation tissue is stimulated. 

Massaging the tool on your face improves circulation, bringing fresh blood to your skin’s surface and reducing flare-ups, acne scars, and redness. 

Instead of using facial oils to massage the Gua Sha, you can use serums that help with acne to attain better results. 

Hormonal acne is caused due to changes in the level of hormones in your body which changes as you age. Hormone levels also change when your body is undergoing certain changes such as menstruation etc. 

Well, the Gua Sha skin therapy also helps reduce hormonal acne. It doesn’t matter what type of acne you have; it has worked for all.

How to Use Gua Sha Massaging Tool on Acne-Prone skin

Using the tool is quite simple. You just need to follow some specific instructions. Once you start using it, your fingers automatically know what to do. 

Even though the Gua Sha massaging tool is smooth-edged and has a curved shape that goes smoothly into the creases of your skin, it is not recommended to use it on blisters or scars.  

• Firstly, before using the tool, ensure your skin has an even layer of facial oil or serum applied to it so the Gua Sha massaging tool can glide easily without causing any irritation. If your skin is inflamed, puffy, or irritated, you can cool the Gua Sha massaging tool and use it on your skin. 
• After applying the oil or serum layer, take the Gua Sha and massage it gently onto your skin using the curved end. Use this tool at a 15-degree angle, almost flat on the skin. 
• Glide it across your cheekbones in an upward motion, slowly and gently. Repeat on both sides of your face.
• Then, gently drag the tool from your chin and slide it across your jawline.
• Repeat this a few times on both sides of your face. 
• Start from the middle on your forehead and drag it across like on your chin. Repeat the process until your skin feels fresh and appears flushed. 

Tip: “When using your Gua Sha tool cooled down, make sure it isn’t cold as that constricts circulation.”

Which Gua Sha stone is best for acne?

Many different types of stone are used in Gua Shas. The most interesting part is that they all have their specialties and significance. These stones include jade, rose quartz, Green Aventurine, Amethyst, and more.

The most common type of Gua Sha is made from green jade. It is the most effective stone for all skin types. It is one of the least expensive forms of jade. The more valuable jade is called the Nephrite jade. It is denser than the regular jade stone. 

The Rose Quartz stone has been categorized as the best stone for acne-prone skin. It helps soothe the skin and fight fine lines and wrinkles. It is the best stone to clear inflammation as well.

FAQs

How long does it take to use Gua Sha for acne?

Using the Gua Sha tool too much isn’t recommended. You should use the Gua Sha massaging tool for 10 minutes per day. Using too much won’t give you more effective results, but it will worsen your skin. 

Does Gua Sha worsen acne?

Gua Sha might worsen acne. Any acne medication or treatment always gives this kind of normal response to the skin. 

When you start practicing Gua Sha, it is normal to experience breakouts or see your acne worsen, but it will be fine. It’s just a matter of time and patience. 

Can you use Gua Sha without oil?

You can use the Gua Sha tool without oil if you have a good serum or moisturizer. It is not good to not use anything when you are using Gua Sha. 

Should I wash the oil off my face after Gua Sha?

No, you do not have to wash your face after Gua Sha to get the oil off your skin. Keeping your skin as it is after using Gua Sha is better than cleansing your face. 

Does Gua Sha make your jawline better?

Gua Sha does not define your jawline. This is a common misconception among people that use Gua Sha. Using this tool tightens and lifts your skin but does not affect your jawline. 

My Final Opinion

According to the National Center For Biotechnology Information survey, 74% of participants reported acne. 

If you suffer from this disorder, I suggest you opt for Gua Sha tool because it has a very soothing effect in treating acne. 

The Gua Sha technique helps with skin conditions such as rosacea and pimples. I noticed that it speeds up acne recovery while reducing scarring.

I hope I have answered all your questions regarding the Gua Sha massage and convinced you to try the technique yourself!