Best Oils For Gua Sha: Master The Gua Sha Massage For Different Skin Types
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Looking for the best oils for gua sha but unsure where to start?
Gua sha may seem like a trendy TikTok-approved skincare technique but this traditional Chinese medicine tool has in fact been used for centuries.
With its rich history, there’s definitely an art to performing a proper gua sha massage.
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Our Top Picks
1
Best Overall Gua Sha Facial Oil
Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil
2
Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Oily Skin
Cliganic 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Jojoba Oil
3
Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Dry Skin
NOW Solutions 100% Pure Sweet Almond Oil
4
Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Acne Prone Skin
Artnaturals Cold-Pressed And Unrefined Squalane Oil
5
Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Mature Skin
Cliganic 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rosehip Seed Oil
When done right, having a gua sha tool as part of your beauty routine helps with lymphatic drainage and promotes better circulation. Anti-aging is another popular benefit linked to gua sha facial massage.
Here at Haul of Fame, we keep you up to speed on all things beauty and beyond with our signature research process. Ditch the overwhelm and get a clear guide on how to pick the best face oils for gua sha to suit your skin type.
Let’s get started with your gua sha glow-up!
What Is Gua Sha?
Before we go into what face oils are good for gua sha, let’s discuss the basics of gua sha.
Yes, you’ve probably seen one gua sha tutorial after another on TikTok but this ancient Chinese practice is hardly a fad.
Gua sha (pronounced “gwah-shah”) originates from a Chinese word that means to scrape. Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine principles, this massage technique has been used for centuries in China and in certain parts of Asia to support general health.
While gua sha can be performed on most parts of the body, its ability to improve circulation and promote a healthier complexion makes facial massage a popular application of the gua sha technique.
The gua sha facial massage is performed by applying pressured strokes to the face and neck area. You can use your fingers, but it’s more commonly done with a smooth-edged tool – usually referred to as a gua sha tool.
You can opt for a simple stainless steel gua sha tool, or you can go with ones made from gemstones like rose quartz gua sha tools and jade gua sha tools. The latter versions are said to offer healing properties in their own right.
You might be wondering what to put on your face when using a gua sha. Generally, you’ll want to massage your face with the best facial oil to use with gua sha.
The best oil to use with gua sha will differ depending on your skin type. As you might expect, the best face oil for gua sha acne skin will offer different properties compared to the best facial oil for gua sha to reduce fine lines.
We’ll discuss more on what face oil to use for gua sha according to your skin type later in this article.
How Does Gua Sha Work?
The way gua sha works has a lot to do with ‘qi’ (energy) and blood flow.
Traditional Chinese medicine places importance on the balance and free movement of ‘qi’ for general well-being. Healthy blood flow is also believed to be crucial to keep common ailments at bay.
Gua sha massage is believed to be supportive of general well-being through the pressured strokes applied on the skin, which help to move energy around the body and addresses any stagnated blood flow.
Do you need facial oil for gua sha? Yes, the oil needs to be applied to your skin beforehand so that the gua sha tool can glide easily over your face and neck.
Potential Benefits Of Gua Sha
There are many reasons why this centuries-old facial massage technique is a common self-care practice today:
Improves Circulation
The aim of gua sha is to move ‘qi’ around the body through stroking motions. Applying this massage to the facial area promotes better circulation.
Not only is good circulation essential for general health, but improved blood flow also tends to result in a radiant glow.
Promotes Lymphatic Drainage
When paired with good face oils for gua sha, strokes on the face done during a gua sha massage can reduce fluid and toxin build-up in the facial area. The massage supports natural lymphatic drainage and detoxification.
Reduces Skin Puffiness
Bloating and puffiness are often the results of poor blood flow as well as fluid and toxin build-up. Gua sha is linked to a reduction in skin puffiness, giving a more supple look to the facial area.
Supports Healthy Aging
Gua sha massage can promote collagen production, which can help to retain skin elasticity. This massage technique can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Relieves Muscle Tension
The applied pressure that forms part of a gua sha massage can be effective in addressing tight areas around the face and releasing built-up tension in the muscles.
Helps With Migraines
Gua sha can be an effective natural therapy for those struggling with chronic migraines. When done properly and consistently, gua sha massage can provide some pain relief.
Promotes Relaxation
No surprises here! Just feeling the smooth tool gliding across your face is enough to put you in a calmer mood.
How To Use Gua Sha
Keen to kickstart your gua sha routine with the best face massage oils at home? Here are the basic steps:
Step #1: Wash And Dry Gua Sha Tool
Make sure to start with a clean and dry gua sha tool to reduce the chances of transferring bacteria on your skin.
You may have heard of beauty hacks to keep your gua sha tool chilled beforehand so it feels nice and cool against your skin. This isn’t aligned with traditional Chinese medicine principles, however, as coldness hinders circulation.
Instead, it’s a good idea to wash your gua sha tool with warm water to keep it warm for your massage.
Step #2: Apply Face Oil Before Gua Sha
Use a good face oil to use with gua sha that suits your skin type. Pour some onto your palm and apply the oil for face massage onto your neck and face area.
Oils for facial massage provide a nice slippery surface for the gua sha tools to glide over. In turn, movements of the gua sha tool help the skin to absorb the nourishing properties of the face massage oil.
Step #3: Perform Face Oil Massage With Gua Sha Tool
Apply gentle pressure to your neck and face area. For an anti-aging effect, it’s best to go upwards against gravity when massaging your neck and face.
Here’s a visual guide on how to apply oils for face massage and the techniques to use when stroking the neck and face:
Can You Skip Using Facial Oils For Gua Sha?
Do I need face oil for gua sha? Absolutely!
Gua sha should not be performed on dry skin. You should always use good facial oils for gua sha.
Facial massage oil helps the gua sha tool to move smoothly around the skin. This is important to reduce the chances of damage to the skin barrier.
As an alternative to massage oil for face, you can use serum if you prefer. The best serum to use with gua sha is an oil-based serum.
Keep in mind that water-based serum is not the best face serum for gua sha. It evaporates fairly quickly and may not provide adequate slipperiness for the tools to move smoothly.
How To Pick The Best Oils For Gua Sha
What face oil do you use for gua sha? If you’re wondering, “What face oil should I use for gua sha?”, that will depend on your skin type.
We’ve compiled the ultimate guide on the best face oils for gua sha to use for different skin types:
Best Gua Sha Facial Oils For Oily Skin
What kind of face oil for gua sha should you use if you have oily skin?
You’ll want to go for lightweight, non-comedogenic oils that will hydrate the skin without feeling greasy.
Jojoba oil is a light face oil for gua sha. It’s fast-absorbing and doesn’t contribute to the overproduction of sebum. Jojoba oil supports general skin health through essential nutrients like vitamins E and B-complex.
Sunflower oil is a highly-absorbent, non-comedogenic oil. It’s especially great for oily skin as it’s breathable and won’t clog pores. This cheap face oil for gua sha is also great for a budget-friendly gua sha routine.
Best Gua Sha Facial Oils For Dry Skin
Dry skin types will benefit from ultra-moisturizing facial oils that can help with flakiness and dehydrated areas.
Coconut oil for gua sha is a popular pick. Rich in fatty acids, it’s incredibly moisturizing and gives dry skin a hydrating boost. This common household item is also one of the most affordable face oils for gua sha.
Marula oil offers incredible benefits as well. Commonly used as a moisturizer, marula oil offers deep hydration and can help soften the skin and smooth fine lines.
Sweet almond oil is another great pick for dry skin. Rich in vitamins A and E, this ultra-hydrating oil is a great choice to address dry spots and even signs of inflammation in the facial area.
Best Face Oil For Gua Sha For Acne Prone Skin
The best oil for gua sha on acne prone skin is a lightweight, non-comedogenic facial oil that will not clog pores or contribute to skin irritation.
Argan oil is a highly recommended face oil for gua sha for acne prone skin and sensitive skin. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich properties make it a soothing pick for irritation-prone skin.
Squalane is one of the best face oil for gua sha on sensitive skin. This super popular beauty staple offers anti-inflammatory benefits that can reduce skin redness. Additionally, it doesn’t clog pores, making this a perfect fit for acne-prone skin.
Tea tree oil is another excellent pick for a non-comedogenic face oil for gua sha. Tea tree oil greatly helps with oil control, while its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are great for soothing acne and skin irritation.
Best Gua Sha Facial Oils For Mature Skin
Wondering what face oil to use with gua sha for anti-aging benefits? Extra-hydrating and antioxidant-rich oils are the best face oils to use with gua sha if you’re looking to smooth fine lines and support more supple-looking skin.
Rosehip oil is one of the best facial oils for gua sha when it comes to anti-aging benefits. Rich in essential fatty acids, this ultra-moisturizing oil offers deep hydration. Containing essential vitamins and minerals, it also helps to boost skin elasticity.
Hemp seed oil supports mature skin by offering deep moisturization, giving the skin a healthy glow. Hemp seed oil is rich in omega fatty acids, which are great at targeting flaky and dry areas.
Haul Of Fame: Top 5 Best Oils For Gua Sha
1. Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil
Best Overall Gua Sha Facial Oil
1. Best Overall Gua Sha Facial Oil
Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil
Suitable for all skin types, this cult favorite earned its reputation as the best oil for gua sha Reddit-approved for offering a natural glow thanks to its deep-hydrating properties.
The oil also wins points for reducing the appearance of fine lines. This sensitive skin-friendly pick is free from essential oils, silicones, chemical sunscreens, SLS, fragrances, dyes, and drying alcohols.
Here’s what people are saying about this best facial oil to use with gua sha:
“I have tried to find a good substitute for this one but there aren’t any. This absorbs so beautifully. My skin is glowing, dewy, and perfect for a nude day or primed for a full face. Worth every dollar, cherish every drop!” – Rachycakes (read more reviews)
2. Cliganic 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Jojoba Oil
Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Oily Skin
2. Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Oily Skin
Cliganic 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Jojoba Oil
A lightweight, non-comedogenic pick like this certified organic, non-GMO jojoba oil works wonders for oily skin!
It’s an ideal face moisturizer that hydrates while balancing oil control. It absorbs well into the skin and doesn’t leave that icky greasy feeling.
Good to know: Cliganic facial oils are third-party tested for purity, and are EWG-Verified and USDA-Certified.
Here’s what people are saying about this light face oil for gua sha:
“This is a lovely, light oil that is absorbed into the skin quickly so you’re not left all sticky. Great that it is in a dark glass bottle to protect the oil, and I love that it comes with a pipet which makes it even less messy to use.” – Bernie (read more reviews)
3. NOW Solutions 100% Pure Sweet Almond Oil
Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Dry Skin
3. Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Dry Skin
NOW Solutions 100% Pure Sweet Almond Oil
Made from pressed almonds, this rejuvenating facial oil promotes clear and healthy-looking skin with its ultra-moisturizing properties. Plus, this fragrance-free sweet almond oil is highly-absorbent and doesn’t clog pores.
Here’s what people are saying about this facial oil to use with gua sha:
“Hydrating, nice, and does not leave skin incredibly oily. Easy to pat down! Works very well for the face. Has no smell which is how it should be.” – Bianca (read more reviews)
4. Artnaturals Cold-Pressed And Unrefined Squalane Oil
Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Acne Prone Skin
4. Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Acne Prone Skin
Artnaturals Cold-Pressed And Unrefined Squalane Oil
This plant-based formula combines vegan squalane oil and jojoba oil for the ultimate acne-friendly pick. Treat your skin to its anti-inflammatory benefits to soothe redness and irritation.
This lightweight oil offers the added perk of reducing the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone.
Here’s what people are saying about this face oil for gua sha for acne prone skin:
“This is the ONLY topical product which has cleared my acne. It seriously improved my skin with regular use. It’s like a serum that rapidly absorbs into the skin. Love it and would recommend it to anyone dealing with acne.” – Stephanie (read more reviews)
5. Cliganic 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rosehip Seed Oil
Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Mature Skin
5. Best Gua Sha Facial Oil For Mature Skin
Cliganic 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rosehip Seed Oil
This sustainably-sourced and minimally-processed rosehip oil is loaded with all the good stuff, from hydrating fatty acids to reduce fine lines and wrinkles to antioxidants and vitamins A and C to boost skin suppleness and help with uneven skin tone.
Here’s what people are saying about this best oil for face massage (anti-aging):
“It’s safe to say my skin is REALLY enjoying this rosehip oil. After a week, my skin looks “alive” again. As someone with dry skin, this oil provides the right amount of moisture throughout the entire day.” – Sheraz (read more reviews)
PS. Looking for face oil for gua sha on Sephora? Grab The Ordinary oil for gua sha: 100% organic cold-pressed rosehip seed oil.
Gua Sha Vs Jade Roller: Which Is Better?
Both gua sha and jade rollers are becoming popular beauty tools, but the question is: which one should you go for?
Both tools support facial health by supporting lymphatic drainage, improving circulation, reducing puffiness, and promoting relaxation.
That being said, gua sha has the added advantage of sculpt-like effects on the cheekbone and jawline, thanks to its strokes that pressures and stretch the face. That’s something to consider if it’s a specific benefit you’re looking for.
Best Oils For Gua Sha: Frequently Asked Questions
What Oil Should You Use For Gua Sha?
The types of oils you can use for gua sha include coconut oil, jojoba oil, rosehip oil, squalane oil, sweet almond oil, and marula oil. These are incredibly hydrating oils that allow the gua sha tool to glide effortlessly across your skin during the massage.
Do You Need A Special Oil For Gua Sha?
If you’re wondering if you need a special oil for gua sha, facial oil is a must-have when you’re doing a gua sha facial massage. Facial oil moisturizes the skin and protects from damage by helping the gua sha tool to glide easily.
What Serum Should I Use For Gua Sha?
If you’re keen to use a serum for gua sha, try Artnaturals Cold-Pressed And Unrefined Squalane Oil. This squalane-jojoba combo is extra-moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and absorbent.
Suitable for all skin types, it’s especially great for acne-prone skin and mature skin.
Which Is Better Oil Or Serum With Gua Sha?
Oil is better with gua sha. It provides the best slippery surface to accommodate smooth movement of the gua sha tool. You can use an oil-based serum if you prefer.
Water-based serum may not be the best choice as it evaporates pretty quickly and may end up with a stickier texture.
Do You Wash Off Oil After Gua Sha?
No, you do not have to wash your face after gua sha. Part of the benefit of the gua sha massage is to help the skin absorb the nourishing facial oils through the strokes of the gua sha tool.
Using highly-absorbent facial oils will leave your skin hydrated without feeling greasy.
What Should Be Avoided After Gua Sha?
If you’re doing a more intense version of the traditional gua sha massage on other parts of the body, you should avoid exposure to cold/wet/windy weather conditions, hot showers, baths, saunas, hot tubs, and aggressive exercise for 4-6 hours.
Should I Use My Gua Sha At Night Or In The Morning?
Either in the morning or the evening works fine as long as you take the appropriate time to do it. Doing it in the morning can serve as a refreshing start to the day while doing it at night can help you to destress before bed.
Best Oils For Gua Sha Summary
Figuring out the best oils for gua sha to suit your skin type is one of the most important steps in starting your gua sha facial massage routine.
Good facial oils for gua sha reduce friction between the gua sha tool and skin, which helps the tool to move smoothly around the skin. Using the best facial oils for gua sha to suit your skin type supports the effectiveness of the massage.
We hope you’ve found this ultimate guide on what oil to use for gua sha face massage helpful! Read on to get the latest skincare tips!