Contents 1. What Is Facial Gua Sha? ...... 4 What are the benefits of facial gua sha? ...... 4 Why is the gua sha tool better than my fingers?...... 4 Is facial gua sha painful? ...... 5 Does facial gua sha cause bruises? ...... 5 Why this tool? ...... 5 Is facial gua sha for me and my skin type? ...... 5 2. Know the Basics ...... 6 Acupressure Points ...... 6 Reflexology Zones...... 9 Lymphatic System ...... 11 3. Telltale Signs on Our Face ...... 12 4. How to Use This Book ...... 16 5. About The Tool ...... 17 6. The Strokes ...... 18 7. The 7-Step Routine ...... 20 8. Tackling Stubborn Aging Signs ...... 23 “11” Wrinkles/ Frown Lines ...... 23 Crow‟s Feet Wrinkles ...... 24 Forehead Wrinkles ...... 25 Wrinkles at Corner of Mouth and Cheek ...... 26 Freckles ...... 27 Sagging Skin ...... 28 Puffy Face ...... 29 Dark Circles ...... 30 Eye Bags ...... 31 Melasma/ Chloasma on Forehead ...... 32 Melasma/ Chloasma at Outer Bottom Corner of Eye ...... 33 Melasma/ Chloasma on Cheek ...... 34 Shop Acupressure Products by Dragon Acupuncture ...... 35 Sources ...... 36 About Us ...... 36
The information on acupressure points for beauty and facial scraping massage techniques contained in this book are best of our knowledge as well as research. The information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of physicians. Speak with your trusted professionals prior to practicing methods in this book. Please keep in mind that reactions and results may vary with each individual.
Copyright © 2018 Easytech Trading Pte. Ltd. Except as provided by the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher.
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Facial Gua Sha
1. What Is Facial Gua Sha?
Gua Sha, a natural alternative therapy invented by the Ancient Chinese, involves scraping your skin with a massage tool to stimulate microcirculation of the soft tissue, which increases blood circulation. Through these strokes, it is believed that the stagnant energy (“qi”), responsible for the inflammation causing chronic pain and sickness, can be stimulated to flow smoothly again.
Facial gua sha is a much gentler version of the gua sha applied on the body. It is not expected to cause bruises or skin rashes on the face and can be practiced frequently to improve various skin conditions. By applying simple varying strokes to selected reflexology zones and acupressure points, we can address a wide range of skin problems effectively. Instant results in erasing fine lines, puffiness and achieving better complexion are often observed. Over time, enduring aging signs such as wrinkles and sagging skin can be reduced. And all you need is a special facial gua sha tool that is gentle on your skin and a few minutes of your time each day.
The massage techniques in this book incorporate theories of gua sha (acupressure), facelift massage and lymphatic drainage. So three things happen when the skin is scraped:
1. Surface of skin and particular acupoints are stimulated to increase blood circulation and flow of “qi” (results in better complexion and reduces various skin problems)
2. Tense facial muscles are relaxed as pressure is applied (reduces depth of wrinkle lines), and
3. Stagnant lymph is activated to clear out toxins (reduces puffiness)
What are the benefits of facial gua sha?
With practice and patience, facial gua sha can achieve the following
Firms up your sagging facial muscles Smoothens the skin and reduces the appearance of wrinkles on your face Improves dark circles and bags under the eyes (the kind you get from advancing age) Lightens age spots and other skin discolorations Your complexion gets rosier and more radiant Helps clear up acne, rosacea, and other skin diseases on your face
This is inexpensive. You can do it at the comfort of your home. Treat yourself to home facial spa anytime you want.
Why is the gua sha tool better than my fingers?
The tool is better than your fingers in various ways. Firstly, your fingernails won‟t get in the way or accidentally scratch your face. And you won‟t tire your finger joints when you apply pressures on your finger tips for some time. Moreover, the tool is smooth all around, cool to touch and can reach every corners of your face. You will be amazed at how easy it is to adjust pressure simply by positioning and tilting the tool in different ways.
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Facial Gua Sha
Is facial gua sha painful?
No, it is not supposed to be painful at all. As you perform gua sha on yourself, you are able to apply varying pressure that is at balance between “pain” and “comfort”. As a rule of thumb, we typically apply more pressure to areas with muscles, for example cheeks, as compared to those with little muscles such as neck and eye regions. As you scrape, you may come across spots where you feel dull aches. These spots are often regions of congestion of “qi” according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) or areas with lymphatic blockage. At these spots, we continue to scrape but with lighter pressures and slower strokes. With several more sessions, you can feel that the pain goes away and with that the particular facial problem related to this congestion gets mitigated.
Does facial gua sha cause bruises?
Unlike body gua sha, we hold the gua sha tool at a much smaller angle to the face (for more details, refer to Chapter 6) and apply much less force as the face is more sensitive than other parts of the body. As such, bruises or “sha” (rashes due to breaking of capillaries) are not expected. If redness persists after facial gua sha, this means that you have applied too much pressure. Use lighter hand and apply more lubricant (oil, cream, gel or lotion) for the next session. With practice, you will get it right. Beginners are advised to start with the lightest pressures such that the routine can be performed regularly.
Why this tool?
Ancient Chinese started with using ceramic spoons for gua sha. Other common materials developed over the years include jade, bian stone, buffalo horn, wood and stainless steel. The tools often come in various shapes and sizes, and are usually targeted for application on the body. Our tool, designed for the sole application on faces, has corners and edges that can nicely fit our facial contour (for more details, refer to Chapter 5). As compared to wood, our material, microcrystalline ceramic, does not get moldy when damp and can be cleaned with soap easily. Unlike normal ceramic, jade or buffalo horn, our tool is made of a specially strengthened ceramic that does not crack or break as easily when dropped. Our tool is much more economical than stainless steel ones, which are more suitable for applications on large muscle groups. We also offer a 60-day replacement guarantee should there be any damage to the tool. (Contact us: [email protected]).
Is facial gua sha for me and my skin type?
It is suitable for most adults with any skin types. It is a natural and non-invasive way of injecting youth to your skin and mitigating skin problems. There are however a few things to note:
1. Avoid directly scraping on inflamed skin e.g. acne 2. If you have sensitive skin, make sure that you use a gentle hand and clean the scraping tool thoroughly before use. 3. Beginners have a tendency to apply too much force. It is advised to start with lightest pressures when you first start practicing scraping.
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Facial Gua Sha
2. Know the Basics
Our massage method takes into consideration the lymphatic draining, acupressure point system and reflexology zones on our face. We would not burden you with the detailed theories, but here is the basic knowledge that will help you understand the techniques better.
Acupressure Points
There are 17 acupressure points that can effectively tackle skin problems related to aging. The table below describes how to locate these points and their applications for beauty. What‟s more is that all the acupoints can also be applied for other issues such as eye fatigue, pain, headache etc. For example, the next time you have stuffy nose, try massaging acupoint Ying Xiang (LI-20). You will be amazed how quickly it helps clear your nose!
Shen Ting (Du-24) Mei Chong (Bl-3)
Yang Bai (Gb-14) Si Zhu Kong (SJ-23) Zan Zhu (Bl-2) Temple Jing Ming (Bl-1) Yu Yao
Xia Guan (St-7) Tong Zi Jiao (Gb-1)
Cheng Qi (St-1) Jia Che (St-6) Si Bai (St-1) Quan Liao (SI-18)
Ying Xiang (LI-20) Di Cang (St-4)
Cheng Jiang (Ren-24)
All the acupressure points shown are located on both sides of the face with exceptions of Shen Ting (Du-24) and Cheng Jiang (Ren-24).
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Facial Gua Sha
Point Name Direction Location Beauty applications Other applications translation Forehead Area Tai Yang/ Great Sun Extrapolate lines - Crow's feet - Temporal, one-sided Temple from eyebrow and wrinkles migraine headache 太阳 tip of eye. Temple is - Melasma/ due to eye fatigue where these two Chloasma at outer - Dizziness lines meet bottom corner of - Eye issues i.e. eye swelling, redness Du-24/ Shen Ting Spirit Courtyard Midpoint of front - Forehead wrinkles - Headache GV-24 神庭 hairline - Chronic sinusitis - Anxiety - Vertigo Bl-3/ Mei Chong Eyebrows’ Along hairline - Forehead wrinkles - Headache UB-3 眉冲 Pouring directly above inner - Nasal obstruction tips of eyebrows - Epilepsy Gb-14 Yang Bai Yang White On the forehead, - Melasma/ - Frontal headaches 陽白 directly above the Chloasma at - Eye issues i.e. pupil and mid-point forehead redness, swelling, between the twitching etc eyebrow and hairline Eye Area Bl-1/ Jing Ming Bring Eyes In a depression, at - Dark circles - Main point for all UB-1 晴明 the inner corner of eye disorders the eye Bl-2/ Zan Zhu Gathered At the inner tip of - Dark circles - Headache UB-2 攢竹 Bamboo eyebrow, directly - Sinus congestion above the inner - Eye allergies corner of the eye Gb-1 Tong Zi Liao Pupil Crevice In the depression at - Crow's feet - Headache 瞳子髎 the outer margin of wrinkles - Eye problems the eye socket - Dark circles St-1 Cheng Qi Container of Directly below the - Dark circles - Eye issues i.e. 承泣 Tears pupil when eyes look - Eye bags redness, dryness, ahead twitching, itchy St-2 Si Bai Four Whites Below Cheng Qi - Eye bags - Eye issues i.e. 四白 redness, excessive lacrimation, twitching - Facial paralysis Yu Yao Fish Loin At the midpoint of - Melasma/ - Frontal headache 魚腰 the eyebrow, in a Chloasma at - Disorders of the depression directly forehead eyelids above the pupil SJ-23/ Si Zhu Kong Silken Bamboo In the depression at - Melasma/ - Eye pain, redness, TB-23 絲竹空 Hollow the outer tip of Chloasma at swelling, drooping eyebrow forehead eyelids
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Facial Gua Sha
Point Name Direction Location Beauty applications Other applications translation Cheek Area LI-20/ Ying Xiang Welcome Depressed regions at - Puffy face - Loss of smell or CO-20 迎香 Fragrance both sides of nose - Freckles taste, sinus issues, - Melasma/ allergies Chloasma on cheek - Sinus congestion SI-18 Quan Liao Cheek Bone Below the outer tip - Sagging skin - Facial disorders, 顴髎 Crevice of the eye, a - Melasma/ spasm, Bell’s palsy depressed area at Chloasma on cheek - Upper jaw bottom edge of toothache cheek bone St-7 Xia Guan Below the Joint In the depression in - Wrinkles at corner - Facial pain 下关 front of the ear, near of mouth and cheek - Lower jaw ear hole - Sagging skin toothache - Hearing issues, deafness, ear pain, ear inflections St-6 Jia Che Jaw Bone A region when you - Sagging skin - Facial paralysis 颊车 bite, you can feel the - Puffy face - Toothache muscles rise and - Wrinkles at corner - Loss of voice harden and becomes of mouth and cheek depressed when jaw is relaxed Mouth Area St-4 Di Cang Earth Granary Half of a finger - Sagging skin - Facial pain, paralysis 地仓 distance from tip of - Puffy face - Inability to close the mouth eye, eye twitching Ren-24/ Cheng Jiang Saliva Container In a depression - Puffy face - Facial pain, paralysis CV-24 承浆 under lower lip in the - Toothache mid-line - Voice hoarseness - Dry mouth
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Facial Gua Sha
Reflexology Zones
In TCM, different organs of the body can be stimulated and/ or healed at various points of the body – not just in the location of that organ. Different areas of the hands, feet, ears, and face all correspond to different organs and systems of the body, so by applying pressure and/ or movement to these areas, a healthy flow of “qi” is either restored (if there was stagnation) or maintained. Therefore, by massaging different areas of our face, we are like massaging different TCM organs, which in term determine the health of our skin.
TCM lung – Skin function regulator
TCM lung produces “qi”, the very element of life. It is through the lung that energy is transmitted throughout the body nourishing our skin and regulating the opening and closing of pores. If TCM lung is not functioning properly, we would have skin that is pale, lackluster, with enlarged pores or pimples may appear.
TCM spleen, stomach, intestine – Factory of nutrients for skin
These digestive organs supply nutrients to skin. The health of TCM spleen determines if skin is supple with glow or if muscle retains its elasticity. If these TCM organs are not functioning properly, skin would turn dry and yellow due to the lack of nutrients while muscles would be lost. As a result, skin would age prematurely; spots would appear and even hair would become dry and dull.
TCM heart – Nutrient pump
In TCM, not only does the heart pump blood, it also controls our mental activities. If TCM heart is not functioning properly, skin cells will lose nutrients. As such, our face would appear dull or dark red and prone to discoloration problems.
TCM Liver – Detox engine
It regulates the motion of „qi‟ and stores “blood”. Whether we can get a clear clean facial skin, it is determined by the health of TCM liver. When we have emotional problems or lack of sleep, the “qi” in TCM lung become stagnant affecting the movement of “qi” and detoxification process. As a result, face becomes pale green and dull. If situation does not improve, over time skin discoloration, pimples, skin allergies, inflammations, loss of hair may result.
TCM kidney, bladder – Injection of youth
TCM kidney is responsible for our body growth including skin. It determines our basic skin type, skin color and speed of aging. If TCM kidney is weak, we accumulate stagnant “liquid” in our body. This results in dull skin, age spots and puffy skin. People with weak kidneys are susceptible to osteoporosis, premature aging and early appearance of wrinkles.
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Facial Gua Sha
On our face, there are regions correlated to different TCM organs. By stimulating different reflex regions, it helps stimulate the organs and in turn resolve the underlying causes to our skin problems. On the other hand, we can also peek into the health of our TCM organs by observing signs on our face. More on that in Chapter 3.
Head (Face, Throat)
Lung Heart
Liver
Small Intestine
Upper Body
Large Intestine
Spleen & Stomach
Lower Body Bladder
Kidney
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Lymphatic System
When we massage, we move stagnant lymph on our face. Fluid and toxins from our face drain out via the right and left lymphatic ducts, which are in the little dips right above the middle of each collarbone. If we apply pressure in the correct directions, we encourage the lymphatic fluid to move along its pathways from the hairline, down the neck to the collarbone and then drain into the body. As such, we only stroke the gua sha board in one direction and not to and fro. And while all our scraping motions are from centre to side and upwards on our face, we do scrape lightly downwards on the side of the neck to collarbone to encourage the drainage of toxins away from the face. It is also important to note that lymph nodes are located very close to the skin surface; we apply the lightest pressure when we sweep down the neck to avoid bruising.
Tonsil
Right lymphatic Left lymphatic duct duct
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Facial Gua Sha
3. Telltale Signs on Our Face
Our face is like a mirror, reflecting our internal health and vitality. The appearance of aging signs or skin problems on different parts of our face is actually a result of problems or imbalance of our TCM organs. This was in fact one of the ways how ancient Chinese doctors carry out diagnosis without equipment or blood tests. We can learn from this and peek in on changes of our own body just by observing the changes on our face. Read the table below to understand the underlying reasons, in TCM perspective, when skin problems appear at different locations of the face.
Location Signs Underlying Reasons (TCM Perspective) Other Symptoms Forehead Dull and dark * Insufficient “qi” in kidney * Brain fatigue Area * Insufficient oxygen in brain * Mental exhaustion * Weak “yang” Bulging green * Long-term fatigue and tense mental veins state * Insufficient blood circulation in the Centre of head and neck region forehead A lot of wrinkles * Insufficient “qi” and “blood” in the * Fatigue brain * Mental exhaustion Pimples/ Acnes * Too much “heat” in lung, stomach * Insufficient sleep and liver * Insufficient water intake * Mentally stressed * Decline in detox ability in liver Dull and dark or * Functional disorder in liver and gall *Insomnia or sleep with with chloasma gladder lots of dreams A lot of wrinkles * Insufficient “qi” and “blood” in liver * Decline in function in and gall bladder liver and gall bladder Two sides of forehead Pimples/ Acnes * Too much “heat” in liver and gall * Bitter taste in mouth bladder * Insomnia Bulging green * Stagnated liver and gall bladder * Mentally stressed veins * Poor blood circulation * Dizziness * Headache Eye Area Corners of Pimples/ Acnes * Disorder in spleen and stomach eyebrows * Too much “heat” in stomach
A lot of wrinkles * Weak “blood” and “qi” in lung In-between eyebrows Red or with * Too much “heat” in lung pimples * Inflammation in throat
In-between Pale * Weak “qi” in heart * Mental exhaustion the eyes A lot of wrinkles * Weak “qi” and “blood” in heart
Skin appears dull * Weak “qi” in kidney * Insufficient sleep and dark * Menstrual disorder * Fatigue Crow’s feet * Insufficient “qi” and “blood” in gall Surrounding wrinkles bladder meridian of the eyes Wrinkles below * Weak upper body * Inflammation at the outer corner shoulders of eye
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Location Signs Underlying Reasons (TCM Perspective) Other Symptoms Eye Area Chloasma below * Muscle strain at shoulder and neck * Painful shoulder and (continued) the outer corner neck of eye * Inflammation at shoulders Sagging under eye * Weak “qi” in stomach and spleen * Loss of appetite * Indigestion Surrounding Puffy eye bags * Over-eating of the eyes * Beware of high level of lipids (continued) Long-term dark * Exhaustion circles * Going to bed past midnight * Early signs of gynecological problems Dull and dark, * Weak kidney * Menstrual disorder with green veins Nose Area Appearance of * Weak “qi” in liver and kidney * Sore waist Middle of cross or * Spinal problems ridge horizontal wrinkles Red * Too much “heat” in stomach and spleen * Alcohol overdose Whole nose Green veins at * Stomach ache ridge * Bloated tummy * Indigestion Tip of nose Dull and greenish * Too much “chill” in spleen * Coldness in abdomen * Cold feet Dull and lack * Weak “qi” in stomach luster * Weakening of functions of stomach and intestines Side of nose * Long-term constipation Pimples/ acnes, * Too much consumption of oily and blackheads fatty food Cheek Area Dull red or with * Accumulation of “heat” in small * Moody pimples/ acnes intestine * Irritable * Stagnated flow of “qi” and “blood” of the heart meridian Front Appearance of * Weak “qi” in heart red capillaries * Stagnated flow of “blood” in heart Chloasma * Weakening of digestive system * Weak “qi” in heart * Stagnated blood flow Chloasma, dull or * Weak “qi” in kidney age spots * Disorder in metabolism Pimples/ acnes * Too much “heat” in stomach and Side small intestine * Accumulation of toxins in intestines * Too much sweet food * Lack of control in diet
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Facial Gua Sha
Location Signs Underlying Reasons (TCM Perspective) Other Symptoms Lip Area Bright red lips * Fever * Inflammation in respiratory path Green purplish * Congested blood flow at heart lips * Lack of oxygen Lip * Intoxication Pale lips * Malnutrition * Cold limbs * Weak in “blood” Black lips * Problems in digestive system * Weakening of kidney function Wrinkles at * Weak “qi” in stomach corners of mouth * Early signs of stomach diseases
Surrounding Pimples/ acnes * Too much “heat” in stomach and of the lips around the mouth intestine * Lack of control in diet * Stagnated movement in stomach and intestines Chloasma * Weak and “chill” large intestine * Constipation * Beware of ovarian diseases * Irregular periods Dull red * Too much “heat” in large intestine * Bad breath * Irregular menstrual period * Beware of ovarian diseases Upper Lip Wrinkles * Weak “qi” in large intestine * Beware of ovarian diseases Pale or appears * Too much “chill” in large intestine * Constipation or diarrhea green * Weakening of the ovaries * Bloated abdomen * Decline in sexual functions Red * Too much “heat” in the stomach * Stomach ache * Gastritis Lower Lip Pale white * Too much “chill” in stomach * Loss of appetite * Stomach feels cold and sore Bulging green * Veins at under tongue are veins under reflection of coronary veins in our tongue heart. * Green veins are a sign of poor Tongue blood circulation at heart * If the green veins are bulging and twisted with dull and purplish appearance, beware of coronary heart diseases
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Facial Gua Sha
Location Signs Underlying Reasons (TCM Perspective) Other Symptoms Chin Area Dull and lack * Weak “qi” in kidney * Sore waist luster * Too much “chill” in uterus * Irregular periods * Endocrine disorders Horizontal * Weak kidney * Waist pain wrinkles * Hemorrhoids Red, pimples/ * Endocrine disorder * Irregular periods Middle acnes * Beware of ovarian diseases Green veins * Tired and lack energy * Sore waist and weak knees * Rheumatism in lower body
Dull or with * Poor blood circulation in lower * Sore in lower body chloasma body * Feeling cold * Indigestion Lots of wrinkles, * Weak “qi” in spleen * Lack of strength in lower Two sides sagging skin * Weakening of digestion system body Pimples/ acnes, * Too much “liquid” and “heat” in dull and lack stomach and intestines luster
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Facial Gua Sha
4. How to Use This Book
In the book, we demonstrate a simple 7-step routine that can be easily added to your daily beauty regimen (see Chapter 7). In each step, we provide suggestions on the part of the tool to use and the amount of pressure to apply. The standard scraping routine goes over most parts of the face and can be completed within a few minutes. After this, you would probably observe reduction in puffiness, smoothened fine lines, and a better complexion.
In the Chapter 8, we focus on addressing specific stubborn aging signs utilizing the TCM theories in acupressure and reflexology. There are numerous acupressure points on our face. By knowing the correct spots to apply stimulation, we can effectively address facial problems to the point (pardon the pun). In TCM, the very area where aging signs, i.e. wrinkles, dark spots, dull skin appear is a reflection of problem of TCM organ. By stimulating those reflex zones, we can help solve the core problems inflicting the aging signs. You can pick additional massages related to your concern from this chapter and add them to the standard 7-step routine.
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Facial Gua Sha
5. About The Tool
Our facial tool is made of microcrystalline ceramic, which feels like ceramic to the touch but is much stronger and has better tolerance to breakage and cracks. It is smooth with no sharp edges and cool to touch. The board is shaped with the different curves and edges that fit the contours of our face.
Part 2 Forked area for jaw line
Part 1 Part 3 Pointed end for Flat edge for sweeping at massaging specific higher pressure than the acu-points and get long curved edge (Part 6) to hard to reach area
Part 6 Long curved in edge for sweeping large areas like cheek, neck
Part 5 Part 4 Less pointed end for Rounded curved out edge massaging points (less for sweeping large area like
pressure than part 1) forehead
The more pointed the edge; the higher pressure is the stroke. For example, if you find part 1 to be painful, try part 5, which has a larger angle. Refer to our suggested use of tool part in the diagrams when you first start. But do feel free to experiment on your own.
Besides the gua sha board, you will also need a mirror (placed on wall or desk) and some form of lubricants. There are many different lubricants that you can use. You can select any natural facial oils such as almond oil, grape seed oil and coconut oil. Or just use your usual facial lotion, cream or oil. The key is to reduce friction when you sweep the board on your face. Do remember to clean the oil off your face after each scraping session before you apply your usual facial cream or oil.
To care for the tool, clean with soap water or alcohol swab and dry after each use. Keep it safely to prevent it from dropping or colliding with hard objects.
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Facial Gua Sha
6. The Strokes
To hold the gua sha board, rest the edge of the board on your palm while your thumb and the remaining four fingers hold onto either side of the board.
For techniques used in this book, there are only 3 simple strokes that you need to master.
1. Scrape
Use the long edges of the gua sha board to cover more skin, and tilt it at about 15 degree angle to the skin surface, almost flat but not quite, and glide the board to give a gentle pull on the skin. The smaller the angle, the gentler is the pressure. Remember that for our face, we do not want to scrape with more than 45 degree angle as it may cause bruises.
Use the curved edge to sweep from Use the forked area to grab the jaw Use the large curved edge to lift up the centre to the side on forehead to and pull upwards toward the ear to cheek from the side of mouth towards reduce appearance of wrinkles refine the jaw line temple to firm up the sagging skin
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Facial Gua Sha
2. Point press in circular motion
Unlike sweep motion, we only use the tip of the gua sha tool to apply pressure in stationary circular motion on a specific point. We apply this massage to stimulate acupressure points. We typically position the tip at about 30 degree angle to the skin surface. Feel free to adjust the angle to get the right amount of pressure. Again, start with a lighter hand.
Use the tip to massage acu-point Use the tip to massage acu-point Tong Use the tip to massage acu-point Ying Cheng Jiang (Ren-24) Zi Liao (Gb-1) Xiang (LI-20)
3. Flat Press in circular motion
Very similar to point press, we position the tip almost flat to the skin surface to cover a larger area and apply pressure in circular motion on that area. We use this massage to warm up reflex zones.
Massage in circular motion with the tip almost flush with our skin surface to warm up the reflex zone for head (face + throat)
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7. The 7-Step Routine
This simple routine can be performed regularly. We suggest limiting the massage to once a day and 3-5 times a week. The routine takes less than 5 minutes. You can incorporate additional problem-specific strokes in chapter 8 to this routine.
Before you start, you should apply some cream, gel, oil or lotion to a dry, clean face to prepare the skin. You also have to remember to clean the gua sha board with soap before and after each session. Please take note
All sweeping motions should be done in one single direction, never back and forth. All our scraping motions will be upwards as we are countering sagging with the only exception at step 1 when we sweep our lymphatic ducts in the dumping direction away from our face. The tool should glide smoothly over the face. If this isn't the case, add more moisturizer as needed. Avoid directly massaging broken skin, blemishes and other sensitive areas. You may experience a dull ache on certain spots. These spots could be related to lymphatic drainage or congestion of “qi” in TCM. You do not need to avoid those painful spots. Just stroke slowly and with lighter pressure if it is too painful. This painful spot will go away after several sessions of gua sha (and that‟s when you mitigate the skin problem) Slight redness is common immediately after the massage and should dissipate within minutes. If the massage leaves any marks on your face, you‟re pressing too deep. Try to lighten your strokes, apply more lubricants or use your non-dominant hand. Do what feels right. You may follow the strength scale on the amount of pressure to apply for different strokes. Or experiment on your own to use varying degrees of pressure on different parts of the face. Feel free to spend extra or less time massaging different areas of your face. If you have sensitive skin prone to spots, you will have to use very light force. Limit the massage to once a day. If you are susceptible to puffiness, we advise you to perform the routine in the morning. If you would like the facial gua sha massage as a way to relax tense facial muscles, you can do it at night. Start with a few sessions a week and slowly work up to 5 times a week.
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For each step, apply each stroke for 3-5 times on one side of the face, and then repeat the same on the other side before moving on to the next step. Diagrams below indicate suggested use of the tool and relative amount of pressure but do feel free to experiment. Step Stroke Tips Preparation Apply cream, gel, oil, or lotion generously to a dry clean face Clean the gua sha board with soap or water Position your face in front of mirror with good light
Warm up lymphatic drainage path Use the large curved side to sweep at a small angle from outer corner of the jaw, near the ear lobe, down to the dip above the middle of the collarbone on the same side.
Be very gentle. Lymph nodes are very close to the surface. We 1 only want to warm up the drainage path so that toxins can be drained away from our face easily when we massage later.
Smoothen out forehead wrinkles Use the curved end to scrape in fluid motion from the centre of forehead (“third eye”), above the eyebrow, outwards to hairline.
Position the tool at 15 degree angle to the skin. You can apply 2 more pressure as long as comfortable.
Brighten up the eyes Use the large tip to glide from the inner corner, apply pressure outwards against eye socket to the outer corner of the socket, stay on the brow bone, in each stroke. Sweep similarly at the under eye area (where eye bags would show up).
3 At the inner and outer corners, stay momentarily to apply small pressure in circular motions to further stimulate blood circulation.
Be gentle and do not pull the delicate skin around the eye.
Tighten the cheeks/ Reduce smile lines 2-stroke movement for the cheek. Upper stroke starts at middle of the nose and go upwards to end at the temple. Bottom stroke starts at the base of nose towards the root of the ear.
4 Apply more pressure to lift up the face. The correct amount of pressure gives you the right balance of pain and comfort. At region of pain, go slower. With time, the pain point will go away.
** You may use the other hand to hold the skin while you scrape.
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Step Stroke Tips Erase fine lines at upper lip Start at centre of upper lip and glide outwards to end at corner of the mouth.
5
Tighten chin area From the centre of chin upwards and end at where your chewing muscles are.
Go ahead to apply more pressure to lift up the face with each stroke.
6 ** You may use the other hand to hold the skin while you scrape.
Refine jaw line/ Reduce double chins Use the fork of the tool to fit into jaw line and start with the tool pressing against the middle of chin and the soft area under chin (where a double chin would show up). Then scrape upwards to the bottom of your ear lobe.
7 Go ahead to apply more pressure to lift up the face with each stroke.
Finish Your face should feel slightly warmed after the session as if you’ve just finished a light jog. Massage your face with fingertips to let the cream soak in and then rinse off. After that, apply your usual facial moisturizer when your skin is still energized and warm. Drink a glass of warm water to enhance the drainage of toxins. Clean the gua sha board. Tips: Please take extra care in cleaning the eye area after each session, especially if you are susceptible to milia seeds, as the cream, gel or oil you use for the face may not be suitable for the delicate eye area.
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Facial Gua Sha
8. Tackling Stubborn Aging Signs
You can pick techniques from this chapter and add it to the 7-step routine.
Wrinkles
As we age, collagen and our ability to replenish elastic fiber in our skin diminish. As collagen becomes thin or broken, wrinkles appear. In TCM, wrinkles are signs of lack of “blood” and “qi”. As different regions of our face correspond to different TCM system and organ, the region where wrinkle first appears indicates the ageing of our corresponding TCM organ.
“11” Wrinkles/ Frown Lines
We focus on two reflex zones on our face, namely, 1. Head, face, throat, and, 2. Heart & lung. Apply flat press, with the tool tip almost flat to the face, and massage in circular motion. Do so for 5-10 times until the skin feels warm and turns slightly pink.
In TCM, area between the eyes, where frown lines appear, corresponds to TCM heart and lung. Excessive wrinkles at this area could be a sign that you have over-exhausted yourself, thus harming TCM heart. To nourish the TCM heart and lung, make sure that you get sufficient rest.
Flat Press in Circular Motion Head, face, throat reflex zone: At centre of forehead near hairline
Flat Press in Circular Motion Heart & Lung reflex zones: Between eye brows
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Crow’s Feet Wrinkles
Apply massage in circular motions at two acu-points: Tong Zi Liao (Gb-1) and Temple, and also in regions where wrinkles are. Do so for 5-10 times until the skin feels warm and turns slightly pink. Repeat on the other side of the face.
Point Press in Circular Motion Temple: Meeting point of the extrapolated lines from eyebrow and tip of eye.
Point Press in Circular Motion Tong Zi Liao (Gb-1): In a depression at the outer margin of the eye socket
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Facial Gua Sha
Forehead Wrinkles
Use the large curved tip to scrape upwards at the hairline, making sure that you pass acu-points Shen Ting (Du- 24) at center and Mei Chong (Bl-3) at both sides. Do so for 10 times.
In addition, flat press in circular motion the region at the center just below the hairline. By massaging this head reflex zone, we can help relax the brain. Do so for 5-10 times until the skin feels warm and turns slightly pink.
Centre of the forehead corresponds to TCM brain organ. The appearance of forehead wrinkles is a sign of fatigue and lack of oxygen in the brain. If you have excessive wrinkles at this region, you need to avoid overworking your brain and learn to relax (and reduce worries).
Scrape Across Acupoints Shen Ting (Du-24): At midpoint of hairline Mei Chong (BI-3): Along hairline directly above inner tips of eyebrows
Flat Press in Circular Motion Head, face, throat reflex zone: At centre of forehead near hairline
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Wrinkles at Corner of Mouth and Cheek
Use the long curved side of the board to sweep from chin, below the lower lip, up and out towards the earlobe. Then end the stroke with point massages at acupoints Xia Guan (St-7) and Jia Che (St-6) using the pointed tip of the tool. Repeat this set of strokes for 5-10 times. Then repeat on the other side of the face.
Also, massage the lower body reflex zone at the lower cheek. Flat press with circular motions for 5-10 times. Then, repeat on the other side of the face.
Wrinkles at corner of the mouth are signs of insufficient strength of the lower body, and weakness in TCM spleen and kidney. To aid reduction of wrinkles in this region, add some exercise routines, such as weight training, to increase the muscle strength of the lower body.
Point Press in Circular Motion Xia Guan (St-7): In the depression in front of the ear, near ear hole
Scrape Up Along Jaw Line From center of chin up and out towards ear lobe
Point Press in Circular Motion Jia Che (St-6): A spot at your jaw where when you bite, muscles rise and harden
Flat Press in Circular Motion Lower Body reflex zone: Lower cheek area near mouth
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Freckles
Freckle is a sign of weakness in TCM kidney, causing poor circulation of “blood” and “qi”. Working on the 7-step whole face massage routine would help facilitate blood circulation and metabolism of skin cells, and dissipation of the melanin to reduce the signs of freckles.
On top of the daily routine, massage the lung and kidney reflex zones with the tip positioned almost flat to the face for 5-10 times each. Lung is responsible for metabolism of skin cells while kidney stores “energy”. Massaging these two reflex zones would further enhance metabolism and blood circulation.
In addition, massage acupoint, Ying Xiang (LI-20), at both sides of nose for 5-10 times until skin feels warm.
Furthermore, apply flat massage in regions where freckles appear for 5-10 times until skin feels warm and turns slightly pink to enhance blood circulation to the troubled spots.
Flat Press in Circular Motion Lung reflex zone: Area between eye brows
Flat Press in Circular Motion Kidney reflex zone: At lower outer corner of the eye on cheek bone * Plus area with freckles
Point Press in Circular Motion Ying Xiang (LI-20): Located at a depression at both sides of the nose
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Sagging Skin
In TCM, sagging cheeks is a reflection of poor digestive functions of spleen and stomach, which are responsible in replenishing nutrients for the skin, causing skin to lose its elasticity prematurely.
Locate and point press these four acupoints at both sides of the face, namely, Xia Guan, Jia Che (St-6), Quan Liao (SI-18) and Di Cang (St-4). Massage each point in circular motions for 5-10 times.
Next, use the big curve edge of the tool to perform a gentle slow upward circular motion across the cheeks. Ensure sufficient lubricant on your face before you start. Apply larger pressure whenever you sweep upwards. Do so for 5-10 times on each side of the face. Your face should feel warm after this scraping.
Finally, perform a flat press in circular motion for 5-10 times on the reflex zones for small & large intestines at both sides of the face to help improve digestion and absorption of nutrient in the body.
Flat Press in Circular Motion Small & large intestine reflex zones: Area next to the ridge of the nose
Scrape Up in Circular Motion From center of chin up and out towards ear lobe
Point Press in Circular Motion Xia Guan (St-7): In the depression in front of the ear, near ear hole
Point Press in Circular Motion Quan Liao (SI-18): Below the outer tip of the eye, a depressed area at bottom edge of check bone
Point Press in Circular Motion Jia Che (St-6): A spot at your jaw where when you bite, muscles rise and harden
Point Press in Circular Motion Di Cang (St-4): Half of a finger distance from tip of mouth
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Facial Gua Sha
Puffy Face
Repeat steps 4 and 6 of 7-step routine to sweep up the face from centre or another 5 times. Then perform point press on the following acupoints: Ying Xiang (LI-20), Di Cang (St-4), Jia Che (St-6) on both sides of the face and Cheng Jiang (Ren-24). Do so for 5-10 times until skin feels warm.
Point Press in Circular Motion Ying Xiang (LI-20): Depressed regions at both sides of nose
Point Press in Circular Motion Di Cang (St-4): Half of a finger distance from tip of mouth
Point Press in Circular Motion Jia Che (St-6): A spot at your jaw where when you bite, muscles rise and harden
Point Press in Circular Motion Cheng Jiang (Ren-24): In a depression below lower lip in the mid-line
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Facial Gua Sha
Dark Circles
Dark circles are often accompanied with lack of sleep, sore waist, irregular periods, and lack of energy. Persistent dark circles are sometimes an early sign of gynecological problems.
To reduce dark circles, repeat step 3 of the daily routine 5 more times to increase blood circulation to the eye surrounding. As you scrape, look for area with pain sensation and then focus on massaging that area.
In addition, perform point press for the four acupoints around the eye for 5-10 times on each side of the face. For acupoint, Jing Ming (Bl-1), you may position the tip at 90 degree angle to the face to reach this narrow point.
Just to share a few more beauty tips
Try to drink a cup of carrot juice or tomato juice every morning to help reduce eye fatigue. Drink more water to help remove toxins. Have sufficient sleep and go to bed early. 10pm to 2am is the period for sleeping soundly to nourish TCM liver, highly related to eye health. If you are not asleep during this period, condition of dark circles could worsen.
Point Press in Circular Motion Zan Zhu (Bl-2): At the inner tip of eyebrow, directly above the inner corner of the eye
Point Press in Circular Motion Tong Zi Liao (GB-1): In a depression at the outer margin of the eye socket
Point Press in Circular Motion Cheng Qi (St-1): Directly below the pupil when eyes look ahead, between the eyeball and rim of eye socket
Point Press in Circular Motion Jing Ming (Bl-1): In a depression, at the inner corner of the eye
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Eye Bags
Eye bags, sagging skin below the eye or wrinkles under the eye are signs of weak “qi” in TCM stomach and spleen. It is often accompanied with loss of appetite, decline in digestive functions, bloated stomach or constipation. Persons with puffy eye bags often over-eat and have poor metabolism of fats. They need to beware of issues of high lipids. If the eye bags are persistent and very obvious, the person needs to beware of arteriosclerosis. Medical checkup is advised.
To reduce the signs of eye bags, massage these two acupoints, Cheng Qi (St-1) and Si Bai (St-2) directly below the center of the eyes. Perform point press in circular motion for 5-10 times at each point and on both sides of the face.
Point Press in Circular Motion Cheng Qi (St-1): Located below the pupil when eyes looking forward, between the eyeball and rim of eye socket
Point Press in Circular Motion Si Bai (St-2): Located below the pupil, in a depression on cheek bone
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Facial Gua Sha
Skin Discoloration
Skin discoloration such as Melasma/ Chloasma on face usually occurs on pregnant, post-natal or middle-aged women. It is closely related to body exhaustion, high mental stress, irregular periods and constipation. In TCM, it is due to disorder in skin blood circulation as result of insufficient or stagnant “qi” and “blood”, and imbalance in TCM organs. The spot where skin discoloration occurs often reflects stagnant “blood” and “qi” of the corresponding reflex TCM organs. By focusing on strengthening the corresponding TCM organs, we can attempt to solve the skin discoloration problem at its core.
Melasma/ Chloasma on Forehead
Skin discoloration often occurs at the both sides of the forehead, where the meridian for gall bladder is. It indicates a disorder of TCM liver and gall bladder.
Scrape from center of forehead out and sideways towards hairline, similar to step 2 of daily routine, but with addition of scraping the eye brow. Make sure you scrape past the 3 acupoints, namely, Yang Bai (Gb-14), Yu Yao and Si Zhu Kong (SJ-23). To enhance result, massage areas of discoloration. Do so for 5-10 times on each side of the face.
Scrape Outward Through Acupoints
Yang Bai (Gb-14): On the forehead, directly above the pupil and mid-point of the eyebrow
Yu Yao: At the midpoint of the eyebrow, in a depression directly above the pupil
Si Zhu Kong (SJ-23): In the depression at the outer tip of eyebrow
Flat Press in Circular Motion Area with skin discoloration
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Facial Gua Sha
Melasma/ Chloasma at Outer Bottom Corner of Eye
The cheek area under the eye is the reflex zone for upper body. As such, the appearance of skin discoloration at the outer bottom corner of the eye is a sign of “chill” or strains at the shoulder joints. A person needs to beware of ailment at shoulder region.
Focus on scraping region under eye. Scrape out from center towards temple. Then, massage the temple using point press in circular motion. In addition, apply flat press to massage the cheek area under the eye and area with discoloration. Do so for 5-10 times on each side of the face until skin feels warm.
Scrape Under Eye From inner corner of the eye out and up towards the temple
Point Press in Circular Motion Temple: Extrapolate lines from eyebrow and tip of eye. Temple is where these two lines meet
Flat Press in Circular Motion Upper body reflex zone: Area below outer corner of eye * Plus area with skin discoloration
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Facial Gua Sha
Melasma/ Chloasma on Cheek
The appearance of melasma/ chloasma on cheek is often accompanied with symptoms like shortness of breath, lack of energy, feeling flustered, tightness at chest and decline in digestion functions e.g. loss of appetite, bloated abdomen and diarrhea. It is a sign of weakening in digestive systems and cardio functions.
Apply point press to the two acupoints, namely, Ying Xiang (LI-20) and Quan Liao (SI-18). Also flat press the intestine reflex regions and area with skin discoloration. Do so for 5-10 times on both side of the face until skin feels warm.
Flat Press in Circular Motion Large and small intestine reflex zones: under the inner corner of the eyes * Plus area with skin discoloration
Point Press in Circular Motion Quan Liao (SI-18): Below the outer tip of the eye, a depressed area at bottom edge of check bone
Point Press in Circular Motion Ying Xiang (LI-20): Depressed regions at both sides of nose
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Facial Gua Sha
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Facial Gua Sha
Sources
国医绝学健康馆. (2011). 刮痧排毒.
Nielsen A. (2007). The effect of Gua Sha treatment on the microcirculation of surface tissue: a pilot study in healthy subjects.
Regional Office for the Western Pacific, World Health Organization (WHO). 1993. Standard Acupuncture Nomenclature, 2nd ed (pdf)
张秀勤. (2011). 刮痧美容.
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