Gua sha’s benefits and effects depend on the oil you use, the tool, and your technique. Choosing a gua sha oil that fits your skin’s needs and does not irritate or clog your pores is essential.Â
If you have your gua sha tool and want to choose the best oil for your skin, here is my top list of the best clean and natural gua sha oils.
Do You Need Oil for the Gua Sha Routine?
You can apply your regular serum if you donât want to use gua sha oil. However, a natural gua sha oil will increase gua sha benefits and:Â
- Prevent pulling & irritation
- It will help gua sha glide smoothly
- Absorbs nutrients better
Best Gua Sha Oils for Different Skin Types table:
| Jojoba | â | â | ||
| Grapeseed | â | |||
| Calendula | â | â | ||
| Avocado | â | â | â | â |
| Argan | â | â | ||
| Squalane | â | â | ||
| Rosehip | â | â | ||
| Sweet Almond | â |
â Best = Highly recommended for that skin type
â = Can be used but not the primary recommendation
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The Best Gua Sha Oil For Acne-Prone/Oily Skin
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is perfect for oily and acne-prone skin due to its composition, which resembles the skinâs natural sebum( an oily substance that protects and hydrates our skin’s surface). It helps regulate sebum production and helps maintain skin oil balance without clogging pores. It doesnât cause breakouts, and its lightweight texture provides hydration without a greasy feel.Â
Additionally, jojoba oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm irritation and reduce acne. (1)(10)
BodyJ4You Organic Jojoba Oil
PREMIUM ORGANIC: Cold Pressed USDA USDA-certified golden Jojoba Oil.
Grapeseed Oil
Lightweight and fast-absorbing, grapeseed oil is perfect for oily and acne-prone skin, as it hydrates without being greasy. Rich in linoleic acid, it hydrates the skin, helps restore its natural barrier, and prevents clogged pores. Its natural astringent properties help tighten pores and control sebum levels, promoting a clearer complexion. Additionally, grapeseed oil is packed with antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols, which protect the skin from environmental stressors and reduce inflammation and aging(2).
Maple Holistic Pure Grapeseed Oil for Skin
PREMIUM ORGANIC: Cold Pressed USDA USDA-certified golden Jojoba Oil.
The Best Gua Sha Oil For Sensitive Skin
Calendula oilÂ
Calendula oil is fantastic for sensitive skin as it calms irritation and redness. Extracted from marigold flowers, this gentle oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe sensitive skin. It strengthens the skin barrier, locking in moisture and protecting against environmental stressors. Despite being very nourishing, calendula oil is lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it a perfect gua sha oil. It provides the right amount of glide while reducing inflammation, leaving sensitive skin feeling soft and less irritated (3).Â
Everyday Beauty Organic Calendula Oil For Sensitive Skin
USDA Certified and 100% natural. It is also great for hair.Â
Avocado OilÂ
Avocado oil is like a superfood for sensitive skinâdeeply hydrating, healing, and packed with nutrients that help repair and protect. Rich in omega fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants, it strengthens the skin barrier, reducing dryness and irritation. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and sensitivity, making it ideal for anyone dealing with skin discomfort. Though itâs a thicker oil, a small amount goes a long way, providing a smooth, luxurious glide for gua sha. Over time, it helps reinforce the skinâs defenses, keeping it resilient, nourished, and better able to handle daily stressors. (4)(5)
Bella Terra Oils
Organic Cold-Pressed Avocado Oil 100% Pure Skin Hair Face Nails Moisturizer
It is a pure product with two applicators so you can also use it on your hair.Â
The Best Gua Sha Oil For Aging Skin
Argan oil
Argan oil is a nourishing and anti-aging powerhouse, rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. It helps improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and restore hydration, making it an excellent choice of gua sha oil for mature or aging skin. (6) Its high squalene content (a natural lipid found in skin) improves moisture retention.(7) Using it with gua sha will help improve circulation, collagen production, and skin firmness, making it ideal for sculpting and lifting gua sha techniques.
VoilaVe USDA and ECOCERT 100% Pure Organic Moroccan Argan Oil
This pure hydrating argan oil is unrefined with no fillers or additives.
Squalane oil
Squalane oil is a lightweight yet deeply hydrating oil. It helps restore moisture, prevent fine lines, and protect against oxidative stress. It is not greasy, strengthens the skin barrier, and increases elasticity, making it perfect for aging skin that needs hydration and protection.(8)Â
100% Plant-Derived Squalane
This formula uses 100% plant-derived squalane derived from sugar cane for a non-comedogenic solution that enhances surface-level hydration.
This 100% Plant-Derived Squalane formula can also be used in hair to increase heat protection, add shine, and reduce breakage.
The Best Gua Sha Oil For Dry Skin
Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil is a regenerative oil packed with essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6), it helps repair and strengthen the skin barrier and helps with hydration. It is also a natural source of vitamin A (retinol), which promotes skin regeneration and improves elasticity, giving dry skin a smoother, more youthful look. Rosehip oil absorbs well without feeling greasy, providing the perfect balance of hydration and nutrition. When used with gua sha, it improves circulation, boosts collagen production, and leaves the skin feeling soft and glowing. (9)
100% Fermented Rose Hip Seed Oil
This 100% Plant-Derived Squalane formula can also be used in hair to increase heat protection, add shine, and reduce breakage.
Cliganic Organic Rosehip Seed Oil for Face
Sweet Almond oil
Sweet almond oil is a very hydrating and soothing oil, rich in vitamin E and oleic acid; it locks in moisture, strengthens the skin barrier, and prevents flakiness. Sweet almond oil is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it gentle and safe for even sensitive, dry skin.(10)
Viva Naturals Sweet Almond Oil
This 100% Plant-Derived Squalane formula can also be used in hair to increase heat protection, add shine, and reduce breakage.
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References
- Chakrabarty, S., Jigdrel, K., Mukherjee, P., Paul, T., Drakpa, D., & Gupta, J. (2024). Bioactivities of Jojoba Oil Beyond Skincare.. Journal of medicinal food. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2023.k.0062.
- Rafique, M., Shah, S., Hussain, I., Javed, I., Nisar, N., & Riaz, R. (2021). Development of grape seed extract based formulations by using non-invasive biophysical technique and its impact on skin aging.. Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences, 34 4(Supplementary), 1621-1628 .
- Dhingra, G., Dhakad, P., & Tanwar, S. (2022). Review on phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities of plant Calendula officinalis Linn. Biological Sciences. https://doi.org/10.55006/biolsciences.2022.2205.
- Sichani, M., Farid, M., Pourhadi, P., & Khorasgani, E. (2022). Histomorp80hological examination of skin wound healing under the effect of avocado oil in Wistar rats. .
- Dewi, R., Sholihah, N., Nofitasari, R., Adhityasmara, D., & Shabrina, A. (2024). The Potential of Avocado Oil for Topical Use: A Narrative Review. Jurnal Ilmu Farmasi dan Farmasi Klinik. https://doi.org/10.31942/jiffk.v21i1.11218.
- Boucetta, K., Charrouf, Z., Derouiche, A., Rahali, Y., & Bensouda, Y. (2014). Skin hydration in postmenopausal women: argan oil benefit with oral and/or topical use. PrzeglaĚd Menopauzalny = Menopause Review, 13, 280 – 288. https://doi.org/10.5114/pm.2014.46470.
- Boucetta, K., Charrouf, Z., Derouiche, A., Rahali, Y., & Bensouda, Y. (2014). Skin hydration in postmenopausal women: argan oil benefit with oral and/or topical use. PrzeglaĚd Menopauzalny = Menopause Review, 13, 280 – 288. https://doi.org/10.5114/pm.2014.46470.
- Rastogi, R., & Gholap, A. (2023). Daily use of a bakuchiol and squalane-containing face serum impacts skin esthetics. Cosmoderma. https://doi.org/10.25259/csdm_224_2023.
- OargÄ, D., Cornea-Cipcigan, M., & Cordea, M. (2024). Unveiling the mechanisms for the development of rosehip-based dermatological products: an updated review. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 15. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2024.1390419
- Blaak, J., & Staib, P. (2021). An updated review on efficacy and benefits of sweet almond, evening primrose and jojoba oils in skin care applications. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 44, 1 – 9. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12758.
Silvija Meilunaite PN1-NC, is a certified nutrition coach and a writer in the nutrition and self-improvement field with a passion for exploring science-based knowledge focusing on holistic health and plant-based nutrition.
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