With the rise of multimedia and global wellness trends, gua sha has flourished and gained popularity across countries and regions. However, amid this growing wave, have you ever paid attention to the precautions gua sha before and after? Improper use can lead to discomfort—or worse, unwanted side effects.
Some people report that gua sha seems ineffective, while others go as far as to say it has damaged their skin. In most cases, these issues stem from incorrect usage. To fully benefit from gua sha, it’s essential to prepare properly before the session—and take care afterward.
Gua Sha Before And After : Proper Preparation Is Key
Many users neglect the importance of preparation, jumping straight into the process with a gua sha tool in hand. This is a common mistake. While technique is important, preparation is equally vital. Think of it in two parts: the environment and the tools.
1. The Right Environment
A calm and comfortable environment helps you relax and enhances the overall effectiveness of the session. Here are some tips:
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Keep the room warm: A warm environment allows the skin to relax, making gua sha more effective. Avoid extreme temperatures.
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Minimize noise: Choose a quiet space. Playing soft, calming music as background can help.
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Dim the lighting: While bright spaces are often preferred, a dimly lit room—perhaps lit with candles rather than electric lights—can better promote relaxation.
2. Preparing Your Tools
Once your space is set, prepare your gua sha tools and accessories. Here’s a quick checklist:
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Gather essential items: This includes your gua sha tool, massage oil or lubricant, a clean towel, and a bottle of drinking water. The oil reduces friction, the towel helps with cleanup, and the water replenishes hydration.
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Inspect your gua sha tool: Check for cracks or surface damage that could irritate or harm your skin.
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Sanitize your tools: Most tools are made of crystal, jade, or similar materials. Avoid high-heat sterilization (like using fire), which can damage them. Instead, clean them with rubbing alcohol.
With everything ready, you can begin your gua sha session using the techniques you’ve learned. (If you’re unfamiliar with the correct methods, feel free to explore our article: How to Use a Gua Sha Tool.)
Gua Sha Before After : Don’t Skip Aftercare
The session doesn’t end once you put the tool down. Post-gua sha care is an essential part of the overall process. Each stage—before, during, and after—works together to create the best possible results.
Here are some important aftercare tips:
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Keep warm: After gua sha, your pores are open and your skin barrier may be temporarily weakened. Exposure to cold can increase the risk of catching a chill or getting sick.
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Avoid contact with water, especially untreated or unsterilized water sources like tap water. Bacteria may enter through the compromised skin barrier, potentially causing infections.
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Wipe the body with a clean towel, preferably one that has been sanitized with high-temperature steam.
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Clean and disinfect your gua sha tools: Rinse with clean water and disinfect with alcohol after each use.
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Don’t overuse gua sha: Unless you’re doing facial gua sha for cosmetic reasons, avoid full-body sessions more than once a week.
Final Thoughts
Gua sha, an ancient Eastern healing method, is not as mysterious as it may seem. With the right preparation and proper technique, anyone can enjoy its benefits. In short:
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Before: Create a calming environment and ensure your tools are safe and clean.
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During: Apply correct techniques to get the best results.
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After: Take proper precautions to avoid unwanted side effects.
Don’t just focus on how to use the tool—think of the gua sha before and after. With the right approach, you can achieve the wellness outcomes you’re aiming for.
