Although most have only been recently introduced to Gua Sha via Instagram or Tiktok, this ancient Chinese method of holistic massage has been widely practiced by those in the Asian community for years. So no the origins are not from your favorite Tiktok influencer but via traditional holistic Chinese medicine! 

Gua Sha is a massage technique via an interestingly shaped tool that is typically a jade crystal or a rose quartz that gently massages the skin in the direction of your natural blood flow and drainage flow. The smooth-edged tool is used to stimulate blood circulation and release tension. While it is praised for its numerous benefits, it’s crucial to understand that Gua Sha cannot replace dermal filler or neurotoxins but they are great to use in combination with. Let’s discuss the Gua Sha vs. Injectables.

Benefits of Gua Sha:

1. Improved Blood Circulation: Gua Sha is thought to enhance blood flow, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells. This increased circulation may contribute to a younger complexion and a natural glow.
2. Muscle Relaxation: The gentle scraping motion of Gua Sha can help relax tense muscles, reducing inflammation and promoting overall relaxation. If you find yourself suffering from migraines, headaches or sinus pain this could be a good tool for you.
3. Lymphatic Drainage: Gua Sha is believed to assist in lymphatic drainage, assisting the body eliminate toxins and reduce fluid retention resulting in a more sculpted look. If you find you’re not seeing tangible results, botox of the jaw or even buccal fat removal would be an option for you – keep in mind Gua Sha is to assist not to create. 
4. Improved Skin Texture: Regular Gua Sha massage is said to stimulate collagen production, leading to improved skin tensity and a softer smoother appearance over time.

Benefits of Dermal Fillers: 

While Gua Sha offers many benefits for skin health it cannot give the same results as a dermal filler or a neurotoxin injectable. 

Dermal fillers are injectable substances,  typically a hyaluronic acid, that once injected add fullness, plumpness, volume, can fill wrinkles and give you more of a contoured face. 

1. Volume restoration and maintenance: Dermal fillers are created to address specific areas of volume loss, fill in wrinkles, providing targeted and tangible results. Gua Sha, on the other hand, focuses on overall skin health and relaxation.
2. Instant and Lasting Results: Dermal filler injections offer immediate results, with effects lasting for several months to a year or more. Gua Sha requires consistent and regular application to see cumulative benefits over time.
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Conclusion:

Gua Sha massage is a holistic and beneficial technique to add to your skincare journey to assist in muscle relaxation, blood circulation, lymphatic drainage and just overall skin health. However, it’s essential to recognize that Gua Sha cannot replace the targeted and immediate results provided by dermal filler injections in addressing specific cosmetic concerns. WIth all of that said we still recommend a daily routine of Gua Sha and your scheduled visits with your injector!