Roll play: Jade rollers and gua sha stone are making waves in skincare

If you haven’t chanced upon a gua sha stone facial or a jade roller video on your social media, are you even on it? The ancient Chinese technique of face massaging is gaining traction thanks to beauty bloggers sharing their basic kneads. If you have stumbled upon these videos but have no clue what’s going on, read on.
Dermatologist Dr Nirupama Parwanda says that the basics come from traditional Chinese wisdom: improper blood circulation and stagnant blood flow is one of the main reasons behind various diseases.To improve circulation and drain toxins, you can try jade rollers and gua sha – an alternative therapy that involves massaging your skin using special tools.
Parwanda says, “Our bodies have a source of energy known as ‘chi’ flowing through it. And to ensure good health and prosperity, we must balance it.” Dr Rinky Kapoor, dermatologist and dermato-surgeon, explains, “Both rollers and gua sha are made of stones such as quartz, jade, rose quartz and amethyst – known for their healing properties. Gua sha is also known as ‘coining’, ‘skin scrapping’ or ‘pressure stroking’.”
FLOW AND GLOW
Both work on the principle of improving blood flow under the skin and enhancing lymphatic drainage. This helps carry the oxygen to the skin cells, which in turn makes the skin tissues healthy, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Parwanda says that gua sha is also called ‘natural botox’ as it helps in controlling signs of ageing. The proven benefits are: pain reduction in muscles and joints; reduction in perimenopause symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, hot flashes; improved blood circulation, removal of toxins. It also treats musculoskeletal disorders and reduces wrinkles.
TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE?
Kapoor cautions that just looking at videos online doesn’t mean you know the proper way to use it. “You need to follow the process to reap the maximum benefits. Also, there’s not one simple process for both jade roller and gua sha. Think of it as driving – while the basics of accelerator, brake and clutch remain the same, driving styles are different,” she says. Start both facials from the neck and then move upwards and with upward strokes.
Rollers are simpler to use as you can just start massaging on the outward and upward direction from one point, except for the neck, where the massaging motion is downwards. Gua sha facials require more technique. Tip: you can learn from a practitioner.
Parwanda has a simple list of dos and don’ts for at-home use. First, never ditch the oil/cream before you roll as it helps the tool to glide smoothly. Second, don’t stroke a small patch of skin more than 10 times. Third, use light but firm strokes. “A thumb rule is if it pains, then you are doing it wrong,” she adds. Finally, go easy around the eyes. Parwanda also suggests that women should start the technique from the left side as that stimulates your feminine energy. To clean the tool, use a tissue paper, wash it with a mild soap solution and use rubbing alcohol to disinfect it. For best results, use once in a fortnight. “Wait for 2-3 sessions of the facial to show results,” she says.
If your skin is inflamed, use the cool tool flat on the area for instant relief
WHAT TO KEEP IN MIND
— Dr Rinky Kapoor, Dermatologist
JADE ROLLER VS GUA SHA