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    Trying an IV drip for the first time? Here’s what to know…

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    Beauty

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    With flu season at its peak, the popular IV drips are known to boost your immune system and ensure an instant wave of energy.
    From alleviating hangovers to supporting weight loss and reducing the signs of aging, the purported benefits of intravenous (IV) therapy are as numerous as the vitamin and mineral cocktails available.
    As one of the most popular clinics in Dubai, Skin111 in Dubai offers a personalised approach to receiving an IV drip with an Oligoscan to determine the vitamins, minerals and toxins in the body.
    To understand how the concept of IV Drip Therapy works, Emirates Woman spoke to Dr. Jhon E Vargas, Internal Medicine Specialist at SKIN111 Medical and Aesthetic Clinic on how the process works.
    How does IV Drip therapy work?
    IV Drip Therapy involves the intravenous administration of a customized blend of essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fluids directly into the bloodstream. This direct delivery method ensures rapid absorption and utilisation of these vital components in better concentration, bypassing the digestive system.

    What are the key potential benefits of IV drip therapy?
    The benefits of IV Drip Therapy are diverse and significant. Customers can feel immediate and effective hydration, vital for overall well-being and optimal bodily functions, it allows for maximum absorption and utilisation of nutrients, leading to improved energy levels, immune function, and overall health, accelerated post-workout recovery, reduced fatigue, and enhanced muscle recovery, it boosts the immune system, detoxifies the body, and promotes overall wellness with customized IV drip formulations and at Skin111 we use customized IV drip formulations designed to address specific health concerns such as hangovers, fatigue, weight loss, anti-aging and beauty enhancement.
    What are the different type of treatments one can receive? Is it advised to get a personalised one?
    IV Drip Therapy offers a range of specialised treatments tailored to individual needs. Some of the treatments include the Hangover Relief for rehydration and replenishment of essential nutrients to alleviate hangover symptoms, an energy Boost with the Infusions of B vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants for quick energy restoration and vitality, Beauty Enhancement with Glutathione IV drips, renowned for their antioxidant properties and skin rejuvenation effects, Weight loss/PCOS/Insulin resistance which targets metabolism and fat burning with specific nutrients and Anti-Aging Solutions with the NAD+ IV drips, emerging as popular anti-aging treatments due to their cellular rejuvenation benefits. Personalized IV drip formulations are recommended for optimal results. A thorough assessment by a healthcare provider ensures tailored treatment plans aligned with individual health goals and needs. Skin111 uses both diagnostic testing and Oligoscan technology to determine which IV ingredients are required by each patient, ensuring the most effective results.
    IV drips have been sold as hangover cures, energy boosters and even beauty enhancers. How have they developed over the years?
    Over the years, IV Drip Therapy has evolved from a basic hydration solution to a comprehensive wellness treatment. Originally utilized primarily in medical settings, it has transitioned into the wellness industry, offering a spectrum of benefits from hangover relief to anti-aging solutions. Advancements in formulations and techniques have significantly enhanced its efficacy and versatility. Providing tailored solutions as a preventive therapy or supportive therapy for particular conditions (chronic fatigue, detoxification of the body, regulate immune system).
    Glutathione is supposed to be the mother of all antioxidants and gives the skin a glow. – tell us more.
    Glutathione, often hailed as the “master antioxidant,” plays a pivotal role in cellular defense and detoxification. IV drips containing glutathione promote collagen production, reduce oxidative stress, and contribute to radiant skin health (whitening).
    How long do the benefits last after each session?
    The duration of IV drip benefits varies based on individual factors and treatment objectives. Immediate effects like hydration and energy restoration are typically experienced during and post-session. Long-term benefits, such as immune support or anti-aging effects, may require consistent sessions over time. The frequency of IV Drip Therapy sessions depends on specific needs and goals. For general wellness maintenance, monthly sessions are common. Athletes or individuals with intensive training regimens may opt for weekly sessions. A consultation with a healthcare provider ensures an optimal treatment schedule tailored to individual requirements.
    NAD+ IV drips is now considered a popular anti-aging treatment – how does it work?
    NAD+ IV drips, popular for anti-aging, work by replenishing NAD+ levels in cells. NAD+ supports cellular energy production, DNA repair, switch off bad genes and mitochondrial function, crucial for youthfulness and vitality.

    Are there any precautions to be taken before each session?
    Prior to each session, a comprehensive medical assessment is essential to determine the suitability of IV therapy. Allergy screenings, hydration status checks, and adherence to medical guidelines are crucial precautions. Post-session, monitoring for adverse reactions and maintaining adequate hydration is advised. As a safe therapy the side effects are uncommon, although it’s relevant to check with health care provider potential considerations before providing any IV drip.
    After a long week at work, we all need a quick energy fix – which drip would you recommend to our readers?
    For readers seeking a rapid energy boost after a demanding week, Skin111’s Ultimate plus IV drip infused with B vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants is recommended. However, personalized recommendations based on individual health profiles are paramount for optimal outcomes.
    How often should you receive IV drip therapy?
    The frequency of IV drip therapy varies based on individual health needs and treatment goals. Normally, at Skin111, we provide IV drips weekly, with a month maintenance every month in order to prolong the positive effects of the therapy. While specific health conditions may require tailored schedules under medical supervision.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Unsplash @insungyoon More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      11 wellness-fuelled activities to do in the UAE this weekend

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      Your ultimate weekend guide in the UAE, June 9 to 11, 2023.
      Take the ice bath plunge

      Dubai’s new wellness destination, Contrast has opened its doors this year with the first-of-its-kind consciously curated sauna and ice studio. This stunning wellness destination offers both infrared and traditional saunas, ice baths and IV drips. As the perfect escape, guests can visit for a healthy escape designed to air muscle recover, reduce inflammation and improve general well-being. The full spectrum infrared sauna suites are state-of-the-art, equipped with 32-inch Smart TV’s so you can watch Netflix or opt for an audio experience and connect Spotify during your 45-minute. Contrast also offers immersive ice baths, which are proven to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, aid muscle recovery, and strengthen mental resilience, making them the perfect modality to complement the sauna experience. It’s a stunning space for guests to receive the benefit from the extremes of hot and cold. The sessions are priced at Dhs155 per 45 min session for the Infrared sauna and Dhs185 for the contrast therapy per 45 min session and Dhs95 per 30 min session for the ice bath. Located on Golden Mile 6, Palm Jumeirah, this place offers a rejuvenating experience.
      For more information visit contrast-wellness.com
      Book a zen yoga class

      After opening last year, FitnGlam has revolutionised the fitness space as the UAE’s leading women-only SuperClub. In celebration of International Yoga Day throughout this month. This month, participants will get the opportunity to immerse themselves in an array of invigorating experiences that include the contemplative Yin Yoga, the synchronising Vinyasa Flow Yoga, the tranquilising Gentle Yoga, and the restorative Face Yoga, along with deeply transformative sound meditation and Theta Healing sessions. To check the full schedule of FitnGlam’s yoga fest across the location visit the website.
      For more information visit fitnglam.ae
      Play a game of Padel

      For a more community-oriented experience, Dubai’s Matcha Club offers a space to unwind, reset and recharge. With six courts, visitors can engage in some friendly-competition and later on refuel with some food at the venue’s French-Japanese restaurant, Nette. The standard 90-minute games are priced at Dhs400 for four people in one court. Perfect after a game of padel or a yoga session in the nearby studio, NETTE’s tasty new sandwiches are the ideal way to refuel. Players can choose from The Crumbed Chicken Wanpaku, The Egg Wanpaku Sanwhich and The Turkey Ham Wanpaku Sandwhich with its innovative à la carte menu. The all-new Grab & Go menu is perfect for those who are hungry but pushed for time and it’s served with the boutique padel club Matcha in Al Quoz.
      For more information visit matcha-club.ae
      Put mindfulness first

      In celebration of Global Wellness Day, Raise Fitness and Wellness will host an immersive and engaging workshop on Saturday, June 10, 2023. Starting from 9am, guests will be greeted with refreshing detox juices and a relaxing yoga, sound healing and mediation session. A breakfast will then follow at Isola Restaurant featuring expert speakers, where attendees will be educated and inspired on what it takes to balance their health through the three pillars of wellness: the mind, the body, and the spirit. For a transformative experience, guests can book this all-inclusive workshop, priced at Dhs290 per person from 9am to 12:30pm at the Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse. As part of this event, there will also be a giveaway for two to the METT Marbella resort opening this summer, inclusive of a 2-night stay and breakfast.
      For more information visit raisefitnesswellness.com
      Enjoy an immersive audio experience

      For a renewed audio experience, Dyson announces the arrival of the Dyson Zone™ air-purifying headphones to the UAE. The air-purifying headphones deliver an immersive audio experience, featuring ultra-low distortion, a broad frequency range and up to 50 hours of audio-only run-time. By addressing the challenges of city air pollution a special filtration system and air delivery mechanism minuses distortion and tackles the dual challenges of city noise and air pollution. With a three-hour charge time to reach 100 percent, users can enjoy uninterrupted listening for hours. With a choice of two colours to choose from, the Dyson Zone price starts at Dhs3,399.
      For more information visit dyson.ae
      Enjoy a wellness escape

      This Global Wellness Day, immerse yourself in a world of tranquility at The Oberoi Beach Resort where every experience is designed to uplift your mind, body, and soul. From invigorating fitness challenges to restorative wellness practices, the eventful weekend offers a sanctuary of well-being. Guests can delight in a menu that balances health at Vinesse, with healthy dishes such Sea Bass in Salt, Mediterranean vegetables and salsa and more. The holistic wellness programmes are available from June 9 to 11, 2023 and can be seen online.
      For more information visit oberoihotels.com
      Fuel your well-being

      ICD Brookfield Place is offering a diverse selection of activities and classes tailored to various interests and fitness levels through the day. Participants can immerse themselves in soothing soundbaths, energizing microform classes, and dynamic spinning sessions hosted by Reform Athletica and 1Rebel. Whether one seeks tranquility or a high-intensity workout, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Taking place on June 11, 2023, this open for all event includes a schedule with a sound bath between 8 to 8:45 am, a Microform class from 9 to 10am, a 1Rebel Rise Class from 9:30am to 10:30am, a microform class from 11am to 12am and free open gym at 1Rebel all day complemented by an ice bath recovery and other pop-ups by Skin Laundry, Elixir Clinic & Y12.As part of the venue’s mission to nourishing both the body and mind, Wellness Day will provide a complimentary selection of nutritious food, juices and matcha by Embody, Encounter, and Lulu & the Beanstalk.
      For more information on the schedule visit icdbrookfieldplace.com
      Pamper yourself

      AWAY Spa has transformed the traditional spa experience with relaxing massages, and rejuvenating treatments, all within a distinctive social space. For those looking for a traditional treatment, AWAY Spa is now offering three new Hammam Rituals, each designed to cleanse, purify, and exfoliate the body and face with prices starting at Dhs600. One of the most exciting additions to the spa’s menu is the Bellabaci Cupping Therapy, which offer guests the ultimate body treatment. With two treatments available – the ‘Bellabaci Stress No More’ and ‘Bellabaci Muscle Recovery’ – guests can enjoy a combination of cupping and hands-on massage with essential oils to relieve tension for Dhs680 for 60 minutes and the MAROC Candle Massage incorporates a warmed candle that melts to release amber, vanilla, and musk oils, inducing relaxation, nourishment, and complete invigoration. Inspired by ancient Moroccan healing secrets, it promises an overall feeling of wellbeing with every massage stroke for only Dhs680. Situated at W Dubai the Palm, the relaxing haven is a must-visit this weekend.
      For more information visit marriott.com
      Indulge in a fine-dining meal

      Dubai’s favourite Thai restaurant, Thiptara, has reopened its doors with an exciting new look and menu, which will transport guests to the floating markets of the Far East. The state-of-the-art refurbishment features beautiful tones and natural materials. The restaurant has also rejuvenated its menu with a selection of offerings including prawn dim sum, stir fried lobster, duck sprint roll and more. For those eating from the vegetarian menu have a treat for the tastebuds in store. Again, drawing from authentic Thai flavours, the Thiptara chefs have created a selection of dishes to take you on a culinary journey. Family sharing stands out one more with a feast made for catching up with the ones you loves with dishes such as Tom Yam Hed, a Thai Hot and Sour soup and more. The restaurant is situated in the heart of Palace Downtown and is open daily from 6pm to 11:30pm for dining in the restaurant an from 5pm to 2am at the lounge.
      For more information visit addresshotels.com
      Watch an Italian Film

      Dubai’s Independent film house, Cinema Akil has an exclusive selection of Italian films airing until June 15, 2023 in collaboration with the Italian Cultural Institute Abu Dhabi. Cinema Akil will present a total of 7 features including four awarded contemporary Italian productions and a celebratory homage through “The Enigmatic World of Federico Fellini”. With the first-time celebration of Italy’s directorial master, Cinema Akil will give a peek into the globally acclaimed director’s noteworthy contribution to cinema with La Strada (1954), Nights of Cabiria (1957), and 8½ (1963). Tickets are priced at Dhs50 without VAT and can also be purchased directly from the website along with an option of a Season Pass at Dhs175 for those wanting the complete Film Week experience.
      For more information visit cinemaakil.com
      Watch the full Emirates Man interview with Jay Shetty
      [embedded content]
      For the cover we are honoured to have former monk and author, Jay Shetty who we discuss manifestation, meditation, and the power of gratitude with. Jay was also kind enough to share his time with us on his recent trip to Dubai, you can watch the full interview on YouTube where he shares his thoughts on habits, discipline, and happiness – a conversation that is as inspiring as it is insightful. Watch the full interview on YouTube.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @zozoewitherspoon More

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      in health and weelbeing

      Face Mapping: 9 Things Your Pimples Can Tell You About Your Health

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      Face mapping pimples on your skin is a useful technique that can shed light on the different zones in your face, since each zone develops zits reacting to different health events.
      We’re not just talking beauty here – face mapping can provide a deeper view of your skin concerns. The state of your skin can reflect your whole being. If you’ve been indulging in too much rich food and wine, the face mapping technique will show you the error of your ways.
      So, what exactly is face mapping?
      Face mapping or Chinese face mapping is a great tool to determine where skin symptoms such as blemishes, redness and pimples, connect deeper in the body. It’s a technique that reaches back thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine.
      READ MORE: 8 Skin-Smoothing DIY Face Scrubs You Can Make In Your Kitchen
      This unique skin analysis divides the face into fourteen zones. Each zone is thoroughly examined centimetre-by-centimetre by analyzing conditions like congestion, breakouts, dehydration, pigmentation etc. Below, a breakdown of each zone.

      Zones 1 & 3
      The left and right side of forehead is regarded as the “sister” to the bladder and digestive system. If you breakout frequently in this area, it might mean that you need to improve your elimination by drinking more water and eating more “whole” foods.
      Zone 2
      The middle of the forehead, between the eyebrows, is related to the liver. Congestion in this zone can indicate over consumption of alcohol, rich foods, and possibly a food allergy (such as lactose intolerance).
      READ MORE: “I Tried My Mom’s Beauty Routine And Learnt 4 Important Lessons”
      Zones 4 & 10
      The ears are a highly sensitive area related to the kidneys. If you notice that your ears are very hot, you might be stressing them out – drink plenty of plain water and cut down on caffeine and alcohol.
      Zones 5 & 9
      The cheeks often give an accurate glimpse into any respiratory distress. Smokers or people suffering from allergies generally experience fine, broken capillaries or congestion in this area.
      Zones 6 & 8
      The eyes are truly a window to the body’s health because they’re related to the kidneys. Dark circles, while often hereditary, are made worse by dehydration and poor elimination of toxins.
      READ MORE: 7 Face Mists To Keep Your Skin Cool And Hydrated During The Hot Summer Days
      Zone 7
      A reddened nose can indicate heightened blood pressure, or the early stages of rosacea. Congestion around the upper lip can occur if you use comedogenic lipsticks or liners.
      Zones 11 & 13
      Look and feel for undersurface congestion and breakouts. Undersurface congestion can be due to insufficient cleansing all the way down to the jaw-line, leaving make-up and cleanser residue. If there are breakouts along the jawbone near the ear, check if you’re having problems with your back teeth (wisdom), or have had recent dental surgery or x-rays.
      Zone 12
      Breakouts or unusual hair growth can indicate hormonal imbalance, possibly caused by extreme stress. Premenstrual breakouts are also very common on the chin.
      Zone 14
      Don’t forget to include your neck in your treatment regimen – the skin on your neck is just as fragile as that on your face, so it definitely needs the benefits of moisturisation and sun protection. More

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      in health and weelbeing

      What is Gua Sha? Everything You Need to Know About the It Skincare Tool of 2022

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      I know a thing or two about stress, and I’m (unfortunately) pretty well acquainted with the toll stress can take on the skin and body: acne, texture, dullness, and so much puffiness. My mom says it’s all the french fries I eat, but I certainly wouldn’t eat (as many of) the fries if I was relaxed!
      So I went on the hunt for products that could both help my skin and help me destress. I tried the spoon in the fridge (OK, TBH, that was painful!), tons of eye creams, and cutting out dairy (didn’t work for me, but it might for you!). My first obvious choice was a jade roller (how could you go wrong!), but the more I researched (AKA stalking all my favorite beauty bloggers on Instagram for hours), I decided to get in on a trend early.
      An Amazon Prime delivery and a month or so later, my gua sha stone and I are basically BFFs. Because I’m so obsessed with my nightly gua sha massage ritual, I’m giving you all the details about what it is, what it does, and how you can do it at home. 

      In this article

      What is Gua Sha?
      Gua sha (pronounced gwa-shah!) is a tool (or tools) used to scrape the skin to promote circulation. Ancient Chinese medicine utilized the gua sha tool thousands of years ago to increase blood circulation and heal the body. 
      When you give yourself a gua sha massage, you’re essentially scraping all of that water and lymph under your skin to the edges of your face and pulling it down your neck to drain. It’s kind of gross but also super cool, huh? It moves all the blood around under your skin, so after a gua sha session, your face is plump with fresh, new blood to the surface.
      In Chinese medicine, gua sha came in the form of soup spoons and other items (which isn’t exactly what all the gua sha stones you see on Instagram look like). Generally, gua sha is made of either jade or rose quartz stones (jade is known for purifying and healing your energy).
      Here, I’m discussing gua sha as a facial tool for massage. However, there are larger tools that can be used for gua sha on the body. I’m dying to find an acupuncturist to see all the amazing things gua sha could do for my body now that I’ve seen how it helps my face!

      Benefits of Gua Sha

      Improves circulation
      Gua sha is the tool if you want to increase blood flow in your face. Circulation in itself has so many benefits, from decreasing inflammation, adding a glowy look to the skin, anti-aging, and more.

      Aids in lymphatic drainage
      Suffering from extra fluid in your face? Gua sha can help with that. Lymphatic fluid is basically all the fluid coming from your lymph nodes that hasn’t quite made its way back to the cardiovascular system. Massaging the skin helps drain that fluid from your face (yuck), and gua sha is the best tool to get that all to come out.

      Source: Pavel Danilyuk | Pexels

      Relieves muscle tension
      As you scrape the gua sha across your skin, you’ll start to feel your face instantly relax. For years, everyone thought I had TMJ because of my jaw issues, but it turns out, I clench my jaw while I’m sleeping when I’m stressed (so basically all the time). As soon as I started using gua sha, I immediately noticed that my jaw felt less tight, and I was able to relax it more than ever.
      The scraping motion you do with a gua sha stone breaks up the muscle tissue, called fascia, which brings circulation and causes the muscles to relax more. If you are dealing with stress and can feel it in your face, gua sha is a super-easy way to bring some relief while adding some awesome self-care to your day.
      An added benefit: fewer headaches!

      Can help with skin dryness
      Stop the presses—gua sha might save all of you dry-skin gals! Yet again, when you push all of those toxins out of your face, your skin begins to plump up with moisture since it isn’t weighed down anymore.

      Reduces breakouts and helps with anti-aging
      Yep, gua sha is basically a miracle worker. All that lymphatic drainage lurking in your skin is bound to cause some buildup, which is what can lead to acne, texture, and dullness in the skin. The massage, therefore, brings elasticity and brightness to the skin. Using firmer pressure can even help you tackle fine lines and wrinkles.

      Adds facial contours
      No need for expensive contour powders with your gua sha! As you scrape your gua sha stone across your cheeks, you’ll start to notice facial contours you never knew you had. While this slimming effect is only temporary, over time, getting the blood circulating and moving around all that lymphatic drainage can only help if you’re trying to slim down your face.

      How do I do it?
      [embedded content]
      You can do gua sha massages after either the serum, moisturizer, or oil step of your routine. I prefer to do my gua sha after I’ve applied all the products to my skin because it helps the stone glide across the skin effortlessly.
      Each gua sha tool is shaped differently, so find the side that works best for the different contours of your face. I first use the side with the divot on mine to fit the contours like under my eyes, on my cheeks, and on my chin, and then I take the curved side for my forehead and down my neck and chest.
      Because you’re about to push all these toxins out of your face (sounds amazing, right?), I like to make sure my neck is decongested before I start pushing all the gunk down it. In three different sections (both sides and directly under my chin), I run the tool toward my face for about five to 10 strokes.
      Then, in a sweeping motion, I scrape the gua sha tool from the middle of my chin to right under my ear on my jawline and repeat five to 10 times depending on how excited I am to hop into bed. I do the other side and then continue up the face, scraping the gua sha from the corner of my mouth to my ears, under my ears, and just above my eyebrows. It sounds like a lot, but it’s so relaxing that you’ll be wishing you could rub that thing over your face for hours (If you can’t tell, my gua sha and I are in a serious, committed relationship right now).
      If you need a visual, the video above is a great tutorial! Once you start gua sha-ing away, you’ll get into your own groove of how you like to do it.
      As you’re massaging, don’t be afraid to add some firm pressure. Obviously, we’re not trying to bruise ourselves, but if some redness or little red dots appear, that’s normal. Redness means that the gua sha is bringing blood to the surface, so it’s doing its job!

      I already have a jade roller. Do I need both?
      Depending on your needs, both a gua sha stone and a jade roller can be beneficial. In my experience, a jade roller is amazing for helping products like serums and oils sink more deeply into the skin. I love using a jade roller to apply my eye creams at night as well as on top of sheet masks to help all that goodness soak in (one of my fave skincare hacks!). Gua sha, on the other hand, is more for massages than products. It helps you pull out all those toxins in your skin at a deeper level than the jade roller.

      Shop Our Favorites:

      I’ve Tried Hundreds of Beauty Products—and the NuFACE is the Real Deal More

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      in health and weelbeing

      The Holy Grail Treatment That Has Made My Sore Muscles Disappear

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      While I’ve had quite the run of working out from home (thanks to Obé Fitness and a well-stocked cabinet of workout gear), since I got back in the gym, my workouts have been a complete step above. I’m lifting heavier, going longer, needing fewer breaks—to say I’m thriving would be an understatement. But what comes with harder, more intense workouts? Feeling sore AF. I won’t complain that my body feels sore from my workouts because we all know that bittersweet feeling that we actually accomplished something when we wake up with shaky legs after a day of heavy squats or a long run. But when you get really sore, it can make even the simplest of tasks (like sitting on the toilet) feel like the most laborious chore.
      If you’re looking for a quick fix, massaging your body with a gua sha tool is probably the highest on the list, and it’s the only method I’ve found useful for both relieving and preventing soreness. 
      Gua sha is the act of scraping at the skin to promote circulation. “Gua means ‘scrape’ and Sha means ‘petechiae’ (tiny, flat red or purple spots) in Chinese,” said Dr. Ervina Wu, PhD, LAc, co-founder of YINA. “It’s commonly used in Chinese medicine to scrape the skin (mostly on the upper back) to invigorate blood flow, release heat-toxins, stimulate lymphatic drainage, activate various points of the body, and stimulate an immune response bringing helpful cells to the area.” If you haven’t tried it yourself (likely with a jade or rose quartz stone on your face), you’ve probably seen it on TikTok labeled as a natural way to sculpt and massage your face. It’s been used in ancient Chinese civilizations for centuries to bring out redness and treat ailments all over the body, using sharper objects like coins or scrapers. In Western culture, we’ve seen jade and rose quartz-shaped stones to lightly massage the face, moving around lymphatic drainage and sculpting the face.
      However, most of us are forgetting that one of the best ways to utilize our gua sha tools is on the body. I’ve added body gua sha to my nightly routine for the last two months. Here’s how I use it, what I use, and the Equilibria CBD products that have totally changed my gua sha routine.

      In this article

      Meet the expert
      Dr. Ervina Wu, PhD, LAc
      DOCTOR OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, FOUNDER OF YINA
      Dr. Ervina Wu is a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine and registered TCM Dermatologist and the founder of YINA, a beauty and wellness brand by two AAPI founders and doctors.

      Using Gua Sha With CBD
      When I want to really help my sore muscles, I pair a gua sha body massage with Equilibria’s CBD products, specifically the Relief Balm and Daily Treatment Oil. To get the gua sha moving around the skin, you always have to apply some kind of slippery product so you’re not tugging at your skin, and opting for CBD doubles the sore muscle-fighting powers. The Relief Cream is already my favorite product from Equilibria for relieving menstrual cramp pain and treating migraines, but it quite possibly works its best when used for sore muscles. It massages very deeply into your skin, and you can almost immediately feel it making a difference. When I use it with a gua sha stone, it glides beautifully. The stone itself is great for massaging the skin and relieving some of that soreness, but the Relief Balm actually feels like it’s taking away the soreness rather than just treating it.
      When I don’t use the Relief Cream, I’ll use the Daily Treatment Oil. Since my soreness is pretty prevalent right now, I’m trying to use my gua sha every other night before bed in my nighttime routine, and for the sheer sake of saving every last drop of my Relief Balm, I turn to this oil for everyday treatment. It’s a lot lighter obviously, so it goes a long way. A tiny bit of this covers practically my entire body. It’s definitely not as strong as the Relief Balm, but for an everyday massage, it still makes a bigger difference than using a regular body oil. The added benefit of this oil is that it makes my skin feel so soft and supple after I use it. I haven’t even been using my usual body lotions since I added this to my routine.

      Source: Equilibria

      Shop My Favorite Gua Sha Tools

      Bian Stone Body Gua Sha Tool
      This is the body gua sha I’ve been using, and it’s a game-changer. Don’t get me wrong, you don’t have to invest in a bigger gua sha to use on your body if you already have a stone you love for your face. But I love the rippled edge on this and also love that it’s a little bit bigger than a gua sha stone you’d use on your face so you can cover a lot more surface area in one swipe. Plus, it was developed by doctors of Chinese medicine and the brand’s founders are AAPI, and when buying a product that is so focused on a practice in Chinese culture, it’s important to support them.

      Gua Sha Body Scraping Tool
      For a less expensive alternative that you can use to really get into your muscles (especially your legs and calves for runners), this stainless steel tool will be your best friend.

      Benefits of Body Gua Sha
      I’ve seen so many benefits since I added this practice to my nighttime routine. “Gua Sha is especially effective at relieving muscular tension and breaking down fascia adhesions, [making it] perfect for those with tight muscles, sluggish circulation, and tech necks,” Dr. Wu said. Here’s what I’ve experienced so far:

      Better Sleep

      Because I do my body gua sha at night, I feel so relaxed that I fall asleep easier. But what I really love is how much deeper, longer, and more comfortably I sleep after using gua sha. Because I’ve relieved some of the tension in my muscles, I’m not tossing and turning all night trying to find a comfortable way to sleep.

      Softer Skin

      Thanks to my nighttime oil from Equilibria, my skin feels softer and smoother. It’s a reminder to use a moisturizing oil before bed, when I otherwise would scroll on my phone and avoid spending some extra time on myself, and my skin is thanking me for it. 

      Less Soreness Over Time

      Using gua sha on my sore muscles has actually made me get less sore over time. Because the gua sha increases circulation to those areas, they heal faster and are more prepared to recover on their own after a workout.

      Releases Tightness

      The gua sha massage breaks up tension because you’re massaging out those muscles and moving that lymphatic drainage around your body. When I use it on sore muscles, I notice an immediate difference: Those muscles feel energized and recovered. Dr. Wu also suggested trying gua sha on your legs and ankles for long flights to reduce swelling or keeping it at your desk to relieve shoulder tension, text thumbs, and achy keyboard hands. 

      More Relaxed Nighttime Routine

      Rather than feeling the scaries or anxiety before starting my night routine, I feel relaxed and excited to get into my gua sha massage.

      If you’re pregnant or menstruating, you should avoid using gua sha on your abdomen. If you tend to bruise or are on blood thinners, Dr. Wu recommended using lighter pressure. Also, you should avoid broken skin, wounds, scrapes, and any sensitive areas. 

      Source: Stocksy

      How Often Should You Gua Sha?
      You can gua sha anywhere from daily to once or twice a week. When I first started, I was only doing it as needed when my muscles felt a little sore, but I’ve started doing it just about every night before bed and have noticed the most results that way.

      How to Gua Sha on Your Body
      You can gua sha your entire body or just the areas you’re feeling sore and tight. Here’s my routine:
      Apply Relief Cream or Treatment Oil to my skin. I do this section by section so the oils don’t absorb into the skin before I can make it to that area. I don’t rub this in too much—just enough to get it spread out.
      Start at the top of your body and go down the rest from there. You can even gua sha your scalp like you’re combing your hair to feel extra relaxed. Follow this by doing your neck, chest, arms, abdomen, legs, and feet. Don’t forget the soles of your feet, ankles, and palms of the hands. According to Dr. Wu, you should move to another area once it starts to turn pink or warm. 
      Start with minimal pressure, and tailor your experience using all sides of the gua sha. When I want something more intense, I’ll use one of the sharp edges. When I want a larger surface area, I use the longest edge. My gua sha has a rippled edge as well, which I like to use on bigger muscle areas, like the tops of my arms, the shins, hamstrings, and top of the back.
      Do anywhere from 10-20 swipes for each section. This is pretty intuitive, so I focus on where I need the massage most and what feels most effective for me.
      Finish the massage by running your hands over each area, rubbing in any excess oil or balm.
      If you experience any redness from your gua sha, that’s normal! Especially if you use a firmer pressure, gua sha can bring up lots of redness and inflammation in the body, but it should go away in a few hours.

      This post is sponsored by Equilibria, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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      in beauty and fashion

      I Tested 6 of TikTok’s Most Hyped-Up Skincare Products

      by

      For better or worse, I became addicted to TikTok in 2020. More specifically, I became addicted to skincare TikTok. I followed beauty influencers like Skincare by Hyram and found myself buying products that actually fit into my budget: $7 “brightening” serums and $10, 16 oz. facial cleansers that barely fit on my counter because the bottles are so large. My main concerns are dryness, dull texture, and acne scarring from a six-month stint on Accutane. While the drug successfully purged my skin of all the acne I was destined to have for the rest of my life, it left me with a good bit of dark spots and an uneven tone. I was committed to improving it; and now after months of testing, I have found a lineup that has genuinely changed my skin—while simultaneously making my routine a bit more affordable in comparison to my impulse purchases from Drunk Elephant and Estée Lauder. An effective routine that doesn’t break the bank? What more could I want? Thanks to TikTok, here are the products that I now call my tried-and-trues! 

      Hydrating Facial Cleanser

      I am a Glossier addict, so I had been using Milky Jelly Cleanser for the past four years. Then on a whim at Target (after a TikTok binge), I grabbed the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser—and boy am I glad I did. This face wash has a striking resemblance to Milky Jelly, both in consistency and gentleness. The ingredient formula highlights ceramides (which can prevent wrinkles) and hyaluronic acid, which both help to lock in moisture and protect your skin—an essential in the Chicago winters. As the temperature has been dropping and the heater in my apartment has been on full blast, I’ve been extra dry and patchy on my forehead. This cleanser has been keeping that at bay. I might just go full force and purchase the giant tub of CeraVe Moisturizing Cream as well.

      The Ordinary
      AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

      Being fully transparent, I had tried this product before. But upon downloading TikTok, I discovered I was using it completely wrong… at the risk of burning off a layer of my skin. I like to call this “the blood mask” because I always see pictures of influencers with this maroon goop layered heavily on their skin. In applying the product in such a way, you’re going to be uncomfortable, itchy, and could even be damaging your skin. Using too much of a highly-concentrated AHA can cause redness and flakiness. Not the vibe. So, I followed the rules of TikTok and added a light, almost pink-toned layer. The mask didn’t burn anymore, just had a light tingle. And after a few weeks of bearable use, I noticed the texture of my skin had evened out, my acne scars were beginning to lighten, and my face was so soft. Score! AHAs and BHAs are key for safely removing dead skin, improving dull and uneven patches, and plumping up your skin for a youthful glow. Since you only have to use a pea-sized amount, this $7 mask will last a long time.

      Ice Roller

      As an avid user of jade and rose quartz rollers, this $10 Amazon ice instrument was naturally my next purchase. Just pop the tool in the freezer, and in the morning, rub the icy goodness all over your face. As I would use my jade roller, I like to use this one after my skincare routine to allow my products to sink in better. This tool has little beads inside so the rolling ritual is like a luxury facial massage at home. Plus, if you’re anything like me and you’re trying to get used to an early-morning routine, this roller is the perfect wake-up call.

      Super Glow Serum

      My biggest skin concern is scarring and texture; so, whenever I see a new product claiming to fix those things, I run to the store (or my computer) for a bit of retail therapy. So naturally after several TikTok recommendations, I went to my favorite brand Glossier to test out their vitamin C. Turns out, it’s true: The ingredient will gradually fade scars and smooth out texture. It also has anti-aging benefits. I’m only 22, but best to start early, right?

      Faded Gel

      I’ve been using this product for only about a week, but I am already a huge fan. After four uses, I swear my scars have significantly lightened and my skin looks brighter. My chin was covered in little spots due to my new enemy “maskne,” and thanks to this product, the dots are barely noticeable now. The formula features exfoliating acids and niacinamide, ingredients that are proven to fade scars. It’s also dye-free, fragrance-free, and vegan, making it super gentle. No burning here! Whether you have acne scars, dark spots, or hyperpigmentation, this product is sure to come to your rescue.

      Lash Lift Kit & Brow Lamination Kit

      I have dark, thick eyebrows with several patchy spots, and I’d also like to note they are completely different shapes. I swear the hairs on my left eyebrow grow straight up while the hairs on my right grow to the side—and I think one might even be slightly higher than the other. But I digress. My makeup routine consists of layering multiple brow products to get the effortless, bushy look à la Lily Collins. With this regimen, my life and brow routine are way easier. The lamination kit allows you to shape your brows semi-permanently. After cleansing the area for product and oil, you add the gel, shape your brows, cover with cling wrap, and leave on for eight minutes. And there you have it: beautiful, bold brows! This kit can also be used for eyelash lifting.

      By using all of these products, my skin concerns have become, well, less of a concern. And my bank account is happy, all thanks to TikTok. More