Face Yoga & Gua Sha: Do These Natural Techniques Actually Lift & Firm?
As the beauty industry has continued to make advancements in medical-grade skincare and injectables, two ancient skincare practices have recently resurfaced as a natural way to lift, firm and rejuvenate skin – and some evidence suggests our ancestors may have been onto something. Face Yoga and Gua Sha, rooted in Eastern practices, are making waves as non-invasive alternatives to traditional skincare and cosmetic procedures. But the big question remains: do they actually work? And if so, how?
Both Face Yoga and Gua Sha offer distinct yet complementary approaches to skin health, targeting facial muscles and stimulating circulation to promote a more youthful, glowing complexion. Our Skin Nutrients Jade Roller combines the benefits of Face Yoga and Gua Shua for a depuffed, smooth complexion. Pair it with our Skin Nutrients Facial Oil for deep hydration and instant glow.
The Rise of Natural Beauty: Face Yoga and Gua Sha
While Botox and fillers have long been at the forefront of skincare routines, there’s been a notable shift towards more day-to-day, holistic techniques. Face Yoga and Gua Sha have recently gained popularity, often touted as “the natural facelift” by beauty enthusiasts and influencers alike.
Face Yoga involves a series of facial exercises aimed at strengthening and toning the muscles beneath the skin. These exercises, which may involve simple movements like lifting the eyebrows or puckering the lips, are designed to stimulate facial muscles and promote a youthful appearance.
Gua Sha, on the other hand, is an ancient Chinese practice that involves using a flat jade or quartz stone to massage the face in a series of strokes. This technique is believed to increase blood flow, reduce puffiness, and release tension in the facial muscles. The ritual is often performed with a specialized tool, such as a jade roller, which is said to provide a cooling, soothing effect on the skin.
While these techniques have deep roots in traditional practices, modern-day beauty experts are taking notice, bringing them into the spotlight as accessible, effective, and natural alternatives to invasive procedures.
Do Face Yoga and Gua Sha Actually Lift and Firm?
The promise of lifting and firming skin without surgery or Botox is undoubtedly alluring. But do Face Yoga and Gua Sha live up to the hype?
Face Yoga: The Science Behind the Technique
The idea behind Face Yoga is simple: by engaging the muscles of the face in targeted exercises, you can strengthen and tone these muscles, much like you would with any other part of the body. This, in theory, leads to a firmer, more youthful appearance.
A 2018 study published in JAMA Dermatology found that facial exercises can indeed have a positive impact on facial muscle tone and facial appearance. Participants who performed facial exercises for just 30 minutes a day over 20 weeks were found to have a visible improvement in the fullness and firmness of their cheeks, as well as a reduction in sagging.
Dr. Doris Day, a renowned dermatologist, affirms this claim: “Facial exercises can work because they increase blood flow to the muscles, helping to improve tone and elasticity. Over time, this can give the face a more lifted and sculpted appearance.”
That said, Face Yoga requires consistency. Just as with body exercises, you won’t see dramatic results overnight. Consistent practice over weeks and months is key to seeing any noticeable difference.
Gua Sha: The Ancient Technique for Modern Skin
Gua Sha’s rise in popularity can be attributed to its promise of promoting a glowing complexion and relieving facial tension. The technique involves using a smooth-edged tool, typically made of jade or rose quartz, to gently scrape the skin in upward strokes. This massage technique is believed to stimulate lymphatic drainage, promote blood circulation, and release muscle tension, all of which can contribute to a more lifted and firm appearance.
While the science on Gua Sha is still evolving, a 2017 study in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that the practice effectively promotes circulation and can help reduce puffiness in the face. The study also suggested that regular Gua Sha treatment may lead to a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, primarily due to the improved circulation and the release of stored fluid in the skin.
According to Dr. Day, “Gua Sha is excellent for increasing circulation and reducing swelling, which can help with overall facial appearance. It’s especially beneficial for those looking to reduce puffiness or enhance the jawline’s definition.”
Supporting Your Skin from the Inside Out
While Face Yoga and Gua Sha focus on the surface and muscles, supporting your skin’s health from the inside out is equally important. In addition to these natural techniques, certain supplements can help promote skin firmness, elasticity, and overall vitality.
Glycine: An amino acid that plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, glycine helps maintain the skin's structure and firmness. As we age, our natural collagen production decreases, leading to sagging skin and wrinkles. Supplementing with glycine can help counteract this by encouraging the body’s production of collagen, leading to firmer, more youthful skin.
Lysine: Another amino acid, lysine supports collagen formation and skin elasticity. It works alongside glycine to maintain the skin's structural integrity and prevent the breakdown of collagen. Lysine is particularly effective when taken in conjunction with vitamin C, which enhances its absorption.
Biotin and Omega-3s: For overall skin health, biotin and omega-3 fatty acids are indispensable. Biotin supports the skin's barrier function, while omega-3s help maintain moisture and reduce inflammation, both of which contribute to a smoother, more radiant complexion.
Vitamin C: Known for its antioxidant properties, vitamin C plays a pivotal role in collagen production. This vitamin helps protect the skin from oxidative stress, which accelerates the breakdown of collagen and leads to visible signs of aging.
Our award-winning, clinically tested Morning & Night supplement contains each of these ingredients for glowing skin and optimal whole body health. When used in conjunction with Face Yoga and Gua Sha, our supplement can provide your skin with the necessary nutrients to remain firm, youthful, and radiant.
The Jade Roller: A Luxurious Add-on to Your Gua Sha Routine
For those looking to elevate their Gua Sha practice, a jade roller is the perfect companion. The smooth, cooling stone is gently rolled across the skin, helping to reduce puffiness, promote lymphatic drainage, and enhance circulation. The benefits of using a jade roller extend beyond just skin care—it can also have a calming, de-stressing effect, making it a perfect addition to your nightly routine.
Our Skin Nutrients Jade Roller, with its sleek design and smooth jade surface, allows for a relaxing yet effective facial massage that complements Gua Sha techniques. According to beauty expert Vicky Leung, “Jade rollers not only help relieve tension in the face but also promote better product absorption when used with serums or oils, making them a must-have in any skincare regimen.”
A Natural Path to Better Skin
Face Yoga and Gua Sha are not miracle workers. But when practiced consistently, they offer a natural and non-invasive way to lift and firm the skin, enhance circulation, and reduce the appearance of puffiness. Together with the right supplements – like the Glycine, Lysine, Vitamin C, and Omega-3s in our Morning & Night supplement – they can be a powerful addition to any skincare routine.