And they aren’t just pretty little things—these stones have a long tradition in traditional Chinese medicine (primarily for bodywork, but most modern iterations seem to favor the face) and can help relieve tight muscles, increase circulation, and sculpt the skin. So there you have it: As long as you’re not being too aggressive with your movements, you’re in the clear for fine lines. One way to make sure you’re not accidentally pulling too much is to use a silky-enough oil underneath. In fact, one of the biggest mistakes people make with facial massages is they don’t use oils along with their tools—the oil will help the stone slide over the skin, not drag. Peredo goes on to note that you should “make sure you are not pulling the skin downward; always use an upward motion, and do not apply too much pressure.” And rest assured: Science is on our side. For example, one study showed that facial rolling—which lends a similar effect to gua sha—for only five minutes a day improved blood flow to the face1, resulting in better skin quality and smoother skin over time. In another, patients claimed feeling tighter, more supple skin1 after regular massages.
