How to use GUA SHA

TIP 1 Begin with your usual cleanse. Use a gentle cleanser to prepare the skin, such as the naturally good micellar face wash.

TIP 2 Apply a facial oil or a serum to your face to give the gua sha stone some slip. Try the very effective Argan Oil or Prickly Pear Oil that complements the gua sha facial and lightens dark spots.

TIP 3 Experts say to work in an upward, outward direction only and press lightly. Apply even strokes against your skin. You don’t need to press too hard, light strokes can be every bit as beneficial.

TIP 4 Draw the gua sha upward on your forehead for a lifting effect.

TIP 5 Use all over your face or target areas that need extra attention, such as your forehead or chin, to stimulate lymphatic drainage and encourage toning.

TIP 6 The oil or serum should be fully absorbed after the gua sha facial. You may choose to apply a serum and moisturiser - or a sunscreen if you have used the gua sha in the morning - afterwards. The gel cream is a great after-treatment moisturiser that refreshes and hydrates, while the antioxidant benefits of rose will enhance the detoxing powers of the gua sha.

TIP 7 Never use gua sha directly on broken or inflamed skin or over a breakout.

TIP 8 Try keeping your gua sha in the fridge in hot weather for an added cooling benefit.

TIP 9 Wash your gua sha regularly with soap and water.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I USE GUA SHA?

Consistency is key, although experts say you’ll notice the difference after the first use, the more you use it, the better the results will be. But to begin with the frequency will depend on your skin type and your skin’s tolerance for it.

Start slowly - once a week - before building up to at least two or three times a week before working up to daily. Once you’ve built this five-minute ritual into your life, it will become an essential tool in your beauty kit.