Facial massage is a relaxing ritual, but using the wrong oil can clog pores or irritate skin. Guasha, with its scraping technique, needs an oil that provides slip without being too heavy. I’ve tried a bunch of different oils over the years, some worked great, others… not so much. Finding the right oil can totally transform your guasha experience, making it more effective and enjoyable.
To help you find the perfect match, I’ve put together a list of my top 5 oils for guasha. These oils are chosen for their skin benefits, texture, and how well they work with a guasha tool.
Product Overview
- Maya Chia The Supercritical Chia Seed Oil: Rich in omega fatty acids, ideal for dry skin.
- Herbivore Botanicals Emerald Deep Moisture Glow Oil: Contains adaptogens to soothe stressed skin.
- Squalane Oil: Lightweight and hydrating, suitable for all skin types.
- Rosehip Seed Oil: Known for its anti-aging and skin-brightening properties.
- Weleda Almond Soothing Facial Oil: Gentle and nourishing, perfect for sensitive skin.
Top 5 Best Oils for Guasha
1. Maya Chia The Supercritical Chia Seed Oil
This oil is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for hydrating and nourishing the skin. It absorbs well and leaves your skin feeling soft and supple. It’s on the pricier side but a little goes a long way.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids
- ✅ Absorbs quickly without feeling greasy
- ✅ Leaves skin feeling hydrated and soft
Cons:
- ❌ Relatively expensive
- ❌ Strong earthy scent some may dislike
- ❌ Glass bottle not ideal for travel
Verdict: If you’re looking for a luxurious, nutrient-rich oil and don’t mind the price, this is a fantastic choice, especially for dry or mature skin.
2. Herbivore Botanicals Emerald Deep Moisture Glow Oil
This oil is a blend of cannabis sativa seed oil, adaptogens, and other botanicals designed to soothe and hydrate the skin. It has a lovely herbal scent and a slightly thicker texture than some other oils. It’s great for calming redness and irritation.
Pros:
- ✅ Contains adaptogens to soothe stressed skin
- ✅ Smells wonderful (herbal and calming)
- ✅ Provides deep hydration
Cons:
- ❌ Can be too heavy for very oily skin
- ❌ Some may be sensitive to the fragrance
- ❌ Price point is a bit high
Verdict: This is a great option if you have combination or dry skin and want an oil with added soothing benefits. It’s also a good choice if you enjoy herbal scents.
3. Squalane Oil
Squalane oil is derived from olives (or sometimes sugarcane) and is a fantastic emollient that mimics your skin’s natural oils. It’s incredibly lightweight, non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores), and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It’s my go-to for when my skin is acting up.
Pros:
- ✅ Lightweight and non-comedogenic
- ✅ Suitable for all skin types
- ✅ Very hydrating and absorbs quickly
Cons:
- ❌ Virtually no scent, which some may find boring
- ❌ Doesn’t offer specific anti-aging benefits like some other oils
- ❌ Can feel a bit *too* light for very dry skin in winter
Verdict: If you’re looking for a simple, effective, and affordable oil that won’t clog your pores, squalane is an excellent choice. It’s a great all-arounder for guasha.
4. Rosehip Seed Oil
Rosehip seed oil is known for its high concentration of vitamin A and vitamin C, making it a powerhouse for anti-aging and skin brightening. It can help reduce the appearance of scars, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. Be sure to get a good quality one that’s cold-pressed and organic.
Pros:
- ✅ Rich in vitamins A and C
- ✅ Helps reduce scars and fine lines
- ✅ Brightens and evens out skin tone
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slightly irritating for very sensitive skin
- ❌ Has a distinctive earthy scent that some dislike
- ❌ Can stain light-colored clothing if not fully absorbed
Verdict: If you’re concerned about aging or have hyperpigmentation, rosehip seed oil is a great option to incorporate into your guasha routine. Start with a small amount to test for sensitivity.
5. Weleda Almond Soothing Facial Oil
This oil is specifically formulated for sensitive skin, with a gentle blend of almond oil and plum kernel oil. It’s incredibly soothing and helps to reduce redness and irritation. I always recommend this to friends who say their skin reacts to everything.
Pros:
- ✅ Very gentle and soothing for sensitive skin
- ✅ Helps reduce redness and irritation
- ✅ Affordable and readily available
Cons:
- ❌ May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin
- ❌ Simple formula doesn’t offer advanced anti-aging benefits
- ❌ Glass bottle can be slippery when oily
Verdict: If you have sensitive skin and need a gentle, nourishing oil for guasha, Weleda Almond Soothing Facial Oil is an excellent and affordable choice.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right oil for guasha depends on your skin type and concerns. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Skin Type:
- Oily: Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic oils like squalane or grapeseed oil.
- Dry: Rich, hydrating oils like chia seed oil or almond oil are best.
- Combination: Squalane or a blend of oils can work well.
- Sensitive: Choose gentle, fragrance-free oils like almond oil or those specifically formulated for sensitive skin.
- Ingredients: Read the ingredient list carefully. Avoid oils with added fragrances, dyes, or preservatives if you have sensitive skin. Look for cold-pressed, organic oils for the best quality.
- Texture: Consider the texture of the oil. Some oils are very lightweight and absorb quickly, while others are richer and more emollient. Choose a texture that feels comfortable on your skin and provides enough slip for guasha.
- Comedogenicity: Check the comedogenic rating of the oil. This rating indicates how likely an oil is to clog pores. Choose non-comedogenic oils (rated 0 or 1) if you’re prone to breakouts.
- Patch Test: Always do a patch test before using a new oil on your entire face. Apply a small amount to a discreet area (like behind your ear) and wait 24 hours to see if you have any reaction.
FAQs
Q: Can I use any oil for guasha?
A: While you *can* use many oils, it’s best to choose one that’s suitable for your skin type and won’t clog your pores. Avoid using cooking oils or heavily fragranced oils.
Q: How much oil should I use for guasha?
A: You want enough oil to provide slip so the guasha tool glides smoothly across your skin. Start with a few drops and add more as needed. Your skin should feel lubricated but not greasy.
Q: How often should I do guasha?
A: You can do guasha several times a week. Start with 2-3 times a week and see how your skin responds. If your skin tolerates it well, you can increase the frequency. I personally do it about 4 times a week.
Q: Can guasha cause breakouts?
A: If you’re using the wrong oil or not cleaning your guasha tool properly, it could potentially lead to breakouts. Make sure to choose a non-comedogenic oil and clean your tool after each use.
Q: How do I clean my guasha tool?
A: Clean your guasha tool with warm water and soap after each use. You can also use a gentle disinfectant spray to kill any bacteria.
Conclusion
Finding the right oil for guasha can make a huge difference in your skincare routine. Whether you’re looking for deep hydration, anti-aging benefits, or gentle soothing, there’s an oil out there for you. Experiment with different oils to find your perfect match and enjoy the relaxing and rejuvenating benefits of guasha.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
