6 tools and skincare inspired by ancient beauty rituals

Gua sha, an ancient Chinese healing technique, has gained a resurgence among beauty communities globally for its ability to promote circulation and lymphatic detoxification. Today, gua sha tools are used on the face to soften fine lines and wrinkles while boosting collagen production at the same time. These facial tools can also relax tight muscles and reduce puffiness to give you the appearance of a more toned and sculpted-looking face.

Try: Jans Tulip Gua Sha, $56

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Instead of the usual flat gua sha tool, this tulip-shaped gua sha allows for an optimal grip, making it easy and comfortable to use. The thinner and pointer tips are also ideal in helping to loosen tense smaller and finer muscles on the face and scalp. Perfect for your at-home massage sessions.

Celebrities like Miranda Kerr swear by this, and for good reason. Dry brushing, an ancient ayurvedic practice from India, is used to stimulate circulation and blood flow. It’s even said to help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Best done on dry skin before showering, start at the feet and work your way up using upward strokes on the limbs and circular movements on the joints, stomach and buttocks. It’s a great way to gently exfoliate dead skin cells to reveal smoother, softer skin.

Try: Dr Barbara Sturm Body Brush Soft No.1, US$45.13 ($62)

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Crafted with natural bristles, this ergonomic brush fits comfortably in your hand to stimulate circulation, reduce the appearance of cellulite and exfoliate the skin at the same time. In addition to using it on dry skin, you can also use the brush in the shower for a gentler effect.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners, cupping has been used to promote circulation and energy (qi) flow, addressing health issues such as muscle aches, flu symptoms and overall well being. Working on the body’s meridian system, it uses glass, plastic or even bamboo cups to create a partial vacuum, which reinvigorates the flow of the body’s qi. This, in turn, encourages the “stagnant” qi to flow more optimally while activating the lymphatic system, improving blood circulation and aiding in deep tissue repair.

While usually done on the body, facial cupping has been slowing gaining traction. Based on the same principles, it stimulates microcirculation on the face and promotes cellular repair and tissue regeneration.

Try: Daily Habits Face Cupping Kit, $80 (set of two cups)

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Designed to boost microcirculation by stimulating the cells responsible for collagen production, this at-home facial cupping kit comes with a big cup for the chin, jaw and cheekbones, and a small cup for the forehead, eyebrow and under-eye area. The promise: a sculpted and revitalised visage.

Touted as a wonder herb, ginseng has been prized for centuries for its healing and immune- boosting properties, especially in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine. Besides its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich benefits, studies have also found that ginseng can help reduce signs of ageing, boost collagen production and protect against free radical damage for a more youthful-looking complexion.

Try: Then I Met You Renewing Rich Beauty Cream, $97

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Enriched with a proprietary quad ginseng complex coupled with actives like baobab, squalane and hyaluronic acid, this deeply nourishing moisturiser leaves skin dewy and plump.

While rose quartz is commonly known as the crystal that attracts love, this mineral has also been found to have skin-loving benefits. It’s been said that Cleopatra not only bathed in sour milk, but also with rose quartz crystals because of its healing and anti-ageing benefits. Today, the precious stone has been made into massage tools, facial masks and scrubs.

Try: Evolve Organic Beauty Rose Quartz Facial Polish, from $25

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Alongside rose quartz particles that gently slough off dead skin, this scrub also contains organic rosehip oil and hibiscus extract to promote cellular renewal and prevent future breakouts.

With its anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil has been used in ayurveda for its weight loss and gum strengthening properties. As a beauty elixir, it nourishes and moisturises parched skin and dry, frizzy locks.

Try: Nila Botanics Bloom Organic Hair Vitality Oil, $80.97

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An immensely hydrating oil, it works to moisturise the scalp, strengthen hair follicles and restore dry, brittle hair to its full glory. Best used before shampooing or as a leave-in treatment after styling.