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I have cellulite and have noticed that it tends to get worse with different conditions. When my weight fluctuates, during different diets trends, and even with stress. Those conditions can aggravate my skin and leave me with dimples and ripples in my thighs.

I have tried a few treatments to minimize my cellulite. I have found rebounding extremely effective and eating certain foods has helped. I am still on the lookout for remaining cellulite remedies that don’t involve surgery or long hours in the gym.

Related: 7 Amazing Rebounding Benefits for Cellulite

This past week I had my first gua sha treatment, and it was incredible! The tool used looks similar to a stone heart that is used to massage the skin. The process of using the gua sha tool is simple and only takes a few minutes. Much like the benefits of cupping, the treatment is relaxing and therapeutic. The gua sha tool helps release congestion and pressure from any adhesions in the tissues. It helps pull out toxins and stimulates lymphatic drainage.

Once I was able to relax into my treatment for about 15 minutes, I was able to really feel the circulation in my skin. It felt like warm water rushing around my body, which was extremely relaxing. Afterward, I felt completely rejuvenated and all of the tension in my muscles had been released. Gua sha works for cellulite reduction because it helps relax the tissues with its pressure and movement. It also helps to break up the cellulite and release toxins. If this is your first time learning about the treatment continue reading.

The gua sha treatment is a traditional Chinese medical approach that uses specialized tools to manipulate the connective tissue layer in order to release tension, adhesions, and tangles. The process has been popular throughout history and continues to be a valuable treatment in Chinese medicine today, one that offers numerous benefits including the reduction of cellulite.

Related: Infrared Sauna Skin Benefits To Help Reduce Cellulite

The gua sha tool used during a treatment session is made from jade or stone, although it can also be created using wood or bone. It’s a flat, polished instrument that is usually between 6 and 9 inches long. Gua sha can be performed solo or with a partner, as the practitioner applies pressure along the skin’s surface using the tool to create a series of red marks without piercing the skin.

Gua sha is a type of deep tissue massage that’s primarily used to stimulate blood flow and release toxins from the body. The intention behind gua sha for cellulite is to reduce pockets of fat by providing circulation to the lymphatic system. The process can take some time to get use to, but it yields results.

How does it work for cellulite reduction?

The benefits of gua sha for cellulite include the relief of pain and tension that may be causing the body’s connective tissues to become locked up around fatty deposits, which can contribute to bumps or lumps on the skin. Cellulite is actually a symptom of poor circulation, which is also responsible for the discoloration of skin that’s seen in cellulite patients. Gua sha enhances circulation by promoting lymphatic drainage, which helps when it comes to breaking up fat cells.

This treatment has been considered an effective way to tighten skin and restore muscle tone in addition to relieving pain associated with sore joints or stiff muscles. Much like a deep tissue massage, gua sha is used to promote skin rejuvenation and reduce the appearance of scars.

The gua sha treatment is also beneficial for people who suffer from respiratory issues, chronic pain, high blood pressure, headaches, and more. Gua-sha treatments for cellulite are typically performed on the legs, buttocks, abdomen, or back using long strokes that end at a point just below the surface of the body. Treatment sessions usually last about half an hour and the client will be required to wear loose-fitting clothing afterward.  

The effects of this type of massage are cumulative, meaning you’ll always see improvements with continued sessions (about one session per week). Cellulite treatments using gua sha have recently become more popular in western countries because of their ability to treat the symptoms of cellulite without medication or invasive surgery.

Gua Sha Cellulite Before and After

Check out the image below to see the results from a recent study that demonstrates gua sha cellulite before and after progress and overall results.

When you’re experiencing cellulite treatments, remember that the gua sha procedure is usually quite effective. Gua sha cellulite before and after photos are a great way to see the benefits of gua sha for cellulite reduction.

Is the treatment painful or uncomfortable?

Gua sha is usually not uncomfortable for clients who are experiencing cellulite treatments. On the contrary, many people describe it as relaxing because it’s so effective at relieving tension that accumulates throughout the day. This type of massage does involve some level of pain or discomfort along with swelling and redness that can last for several hours following a session.

I have found that the gua sha treatment is an effective way to get rid of cellulite. Unfortunately, I did not document my journey with Gua sha cellulite before and after photos. I have a gua sha kit that allows me to perform this treatment at home by myself, but if you want a therapeutic experience you can visit a professional who will do it for you. If you would like to try this treatment for yourself, head to your local Chinese medicine doctor or visit an oriental medical shop near you.

If you’re considering trying gua sha treatments for cellulite, keep in mind that because it is a traditional Chinese therapy there still isn’t much research on how effective it is at treating the root causes of cellulite. It’s important to consult your doctor before trying gua sha for cellulite or any other treatment.

Although there are no known side effects associated with this type of massage, always consult your doctor before beginning a new treatment. There is also no research available on whether gua sha is safe to use in conjunction with other treatments, but if you are using any medication or have a pre-existing medical condition, it’s best to check with your doctor before trying gua sha for cellulite.