Gua‐sha, Jade Roller, and Facial Massage: Are there benefits within dermatology?

Abstract

To the Editor, Gua-sha, Jade Rollers, and facial massages are alternative treatments that improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage resulting in clearer skin. Gua-sha and Jade Rollers originated from ancient China, becoming part of the Western beauty routines during the 1970s. Today, they are popular due to recent social media trends. 1 Guasha treatment uses a polished jade stone to scrape skin gently. Jade Rollers resemble a small paint roller made of jade stone used to massage skin. Both methods require an upward and outward motion to reduce inflammation, improve skin complexion, and decrease wrinkles. We aim to compare these techniques and the content of top 10 websites of the respective technique as determined by the Google search algorithm.Google search was performed using "Gua-sha," "Jade Roller," and "Facial Massage." Top 10 website results were reviewed for content, including proposed benefits, proposed risks, mentioned studies, references cited, and quoted experts. Websites for advertising and selling products were excluded.The most common websites (Table 1) were beauty websites (11 websites), followed by health websites (10 websites) and news websites (9 websites). Common benefits proposed included reduced inflammation, decreased wrinkles, reduced puffiness, improved blood circulation, improved lymphatic drainage, muscle tension relief, and migraine relief (Table 1). Common proposed risks included bruising, risk of infection, and skin irritation (Table 1). Five websites cited

Unilateral Platysma Muscle Rupture as an Effect of Using a Hard Wooden Block for Facial Massage

“…In our case, the patient had used a hard wooden block for facial massage for a year. The use of gua-sha and jade rollers originates from ancient China 10 . Their use can stimulate a powerful facial massage but cause complications.…”

“…The use of gua sha and jade rollers originates from ancient China. 10 Their use can stimulate a powerful facial massage but cause complications. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of platysma muscle rupture caused by frequent facial massages.…”

Summary of Outpatient Visits for Characteristic Nursing in Traditional Chinese Medicine

“…Gua Sha has the inherent capabilities of harmonizing meridians, activating energy pathways, promoting the circulation of Qi and blood,15 and balancing the Yin-Yang. Additionally, it enhances the skin’s immune function 16…”

“…Additionally, it enhances the skin's immune function. 16 (8) Health Education. Upon concluding the visit, patients are provided with comprehensive information regarding post-treatment precautions.…”