Gua sha stones are an elite way to de-puff skin, improve circulation and indulge in a spot of self-care

Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing method in which a smooth-edged tool – gua sha stones – glide across your face to improve circulation and break up stagnation-induced retention. They can be used all over the body, but are the most beneficial on the face – and by now, you’ve probably seen all of your favourite influencers and TikTok’ers using them. As such, you’ve probably been wondering whether it’s worth adding a gua sha stone to your skincare routine or not. We’ve let the experts weigh-in, and we’re here to tell you everything you need to know.

But before we jump in, let’s break down the basics: so the gua sha stones have several similarities to facial rollers, including typically being made from jade quartz, rose quartz or another form of crystal. Both have many beneficial uses, but they’re most commonly used to stimulate blood flow and drain any puffiness to the face through lymphatic drainage. Plus, gua sha can also help stimulate collagen production which in turn reduces the appearance of fine lines and boost skin elasticity. Katie Brindle, founder of  Hayo’u, shared that “the gua sha can be such a game-changer for a simple, at-home massage technique.”

Gua sha is also believed to be a great form of self-care that you can do at home if you wanted to concentrate and take your time with your routine. “A gua sha is a staple step in my evening routine. It’s perfect for unwinding and de-stressing my skin through daily use,” Melusine Tran, Founder of Kosame Beauty added. “I tend to use it right after my double cleanse routine and find the size is so convenient for weekends away.”

By Beauty Bay The Jade Gua Sha

Feeling inspired to upgrade your skincare routine? Check out our guides for the best face masks, anti-ageing creams, night creams, moisturisers for dry skin, gradual tanner, sun cream, eye creams, cleansing bars, hyaluronic acid serum and vitamin C serums. 

How do I know which gua sha to buy?

This is really dependent on the kind of results you’re looking for. “Rose quartz is a higher quality stone that stays cool during use,” explains Saffron Hughes, MUA at FalseEyelashes.co.uk “Rose quartz is better known for its wrinkle-reducing benefits. Whereas Jade is a softer stone and can encounter wear and tear with repeated use.” This gua sha from The White Company is also a great option for firming and stimulating the skin.

Which brand gua sha stone is best?

Again, this is completely your choice depending on your preferences and your budget – but quite a few of our favourite gua sha brands include Kora Organics – their heart-shaped facial sculptor is stocked at LookFantastic – Lanshin (if you’ve got a little more money to spend) and By Beauty Bay for a solid £10 option.

For more shoppable beauty content from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Denise Primbet, follow her on Twitter @deniseprimbet and Instagram @deniseprimbet.

Scroll down to discover the best gua sha stones out there…