Is gua sha worth it for your skin?

In Talkies, Dr Griet Voet and aesthetic physician Dr Fran Baete discuss the popular gua sha, a traditional East Asian massage technique in which a smooth stone is stroked over the skin.

According to Dr Voet, research focuses mainly on pain such as back and neck pain, and there the technique appears safe and effective, although it is best to have the cause of the pain checked by a doctor first. For aesthetic promises such as a more defined jawline or fewer wrinkles, there is hardly any evidence according to Dr Baete; at most, the massage may reduce swelling a little. Anyone who wants to firm up their skin is better off looking at other treatments.

If you use it at home, choose a tool without sharp edges, massage in one direction and avoid small wounds, moles and spots.

• Use a tool without sharp edges and always massage in the same direction.

• Apply a serum or cream first so that the stone glides smoothly.

• Avoid small wounds, moles and spots, and take extra care if you are on blood thinners.

• If you have pain, have the cause examined by a doctor first.