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Yes, gua sha is more than an Instagram trend!

If you have yet to see the trending gua sha tools on Instagram, allow us to properly introduce this beloved beauty technique. Despite its recent spike in popularity, gua sha is a centuries-old practice that helps create a sculpted look in your face by stimulating deeper tissue release and lymphatic drainage, which slims and de-puffs the face.

Before performing gua sha, a few things to keep in mind—make sure your face is freshly cleansed, and apply gentle oil to help the tool smoothly glide. “Not too much oil, though, maybe four to six drops, depending on the thickness of the oil,” says Morgan Rackley, a licensed esthetician and owner of Luminous Skin Atlanta. “And be sure to include your neck!”

“Starting from the center of the face and working your way out, you should gently glide the tool across the contours of your face,” explains board-certified dermatologist Geeta Yadav, MD. “Then work from your jawline down your neck toward your clavicle.” Experts recommend repeating this pattern at least three times.

You’ll notice that there are divots in the flat-shaped tool, best used along the jawline, cheekbones, and brow bones. The smoother sides of the gua sha facial tools can be used along the forehead, neck, and smoother areas of the face.

The Benefits of Gua Sha

If a centuries-old practice is still relevant today, it’s for good reason. So let’s dig into the science, shall we?

Essentially, fascia, a thin layer of connective or fibrous tissues, surrounds our muscles, including in our face. “When fascia gets tense, it can restrict blood flow and lymphatic drainage,” says Yadav. “Stimulating our facial fascia helps relax the face, facilitate blood flow, and promote lymphatic drainage for healthier-looking skin. Immediately, the skin should appear more vibrant due to the increase in blood flow and circulation; this will also promote better absorption of your topical skincare products. You'll also be able to see a subtly sculpted appearance.”

Over time, you can expect an improvement in your overall skin texture and tone (also read: potential changes regarding those stubborn fine lines and wrinkles and a decrease in facial puffiness).“Long-term benefits come from the consistent relaxing of facial muscles, delaying the formation of deep-set wrinkles,” explains Rackley. “We also love gua gha for the increase of blood circulation to the skin, as the skin receives oxygen through our blood.”

However, it’s important to note that gua sha is not a medically proven therapy for dermatologic conditions. “The modality aims to create temporary petechiae [aka broken vessels] and bruising to the skin,” says California-based board-certified dermatologist Caren Campbell, MD. “It can result in broken blood vessels and make skin conditions worse… There is some science behind the use of it for muscle pain and aches, but not for skin-related issues or anti-aging.”

While no beauty technique can prevent the beautiful process of aging, gua sha still has valuable benefits and remains a lovely addition to your morning and nighttime routines. That’s why we’ve rounded up the 12 best gua sha facial tools for your next beauty shopping splurge!

Best Overall: Pink Moon Over The Moon Duo

Best Value: Rena Chris 4 Piece Gua Sha Facial Tool

Top-Rated: Odacite Crystal Contour Gua Sha Beauty Tool

Most Loved: Mount Lai De-Puffing Rose Quartz Eye Treatment Tool

Best for Body: AICNLY Large Gua Sha Massage Tool

Best with Rose Quartz: O'O Hawaii Rose Quartz Gua Sha Beauty Tool

Look no further for the perfect duo—this set comes with facial oil, a gua sha tool, and an easy-to-follow guide, as well as a pretty pink velvet reusable pouch to protect and store your tool.

For best results, use this heart-shaped gua sha facial tool for three to five minutes daily. For additional healing and relaxation benefits, place the stone in the refrigerator before use to help increase circulation.

Fused with rose quartz, this butterfly gua sha tool has such a feminine energy. There is no right or wrong side to use the butterfly—whichever feels best for you!

This design allows you to target small and large facial areas. The jade color is calming—metaphoric for how the tool will make you feel when you're done using it.

Meant specifically for the eye area, this massage tool is crafted from rose quartz for a soothing, cooling affect. If you have puffy eyes, say hello to your new BFF.

Hoping to massage different parts of your body? Well, this four-piece set is a great go-to. “[They] relax my tight sore shoulders and neck [and] stimulates blood flow in my face,” writes an Amazon reviewer. “[I] get slightly flushed for a few minutes, but [it] goes away quickly.”

Time to smoothe the look of your wrinkles and encourage detoxification. “This was a total spur-of-the-moment purchase, just because there’s some serious hype over gua sha, and I’m actually so surprised at how much I love this little tool!” attests a Nordstrom reviewer. “It’s relaxing to use, and I do it while watching TV.”

Hand-crafted in nephrite jade, which is known to contain supportive healing properties, this pro gua sha tool will up-level your skincare regimen big time.

Bring the spa home to you with a skin tool that is meant to lift and define your facial features. Designed for all skin types, you won’t regret this purchase.

Composed of Bian stone, which contains 40+ minerals known for their healing properties, each edge of the tool is intentionally architected to enhance the gua sha practice.

A multifunctional massage tool that promotes lymphatic and blood circulation in the whole body. It’s made of natural resin with smooth edges and won't hurt your skin. “Great product! Easy to use, lightweight but sturdy,” exclaims an Amazon reviewer. “Covers a larger area than other similar tools. Would recommend!”

The most important stone to open your heart chakra, this will not only promote love but also support you in obtaining glowing skin and moisture.