What’s Dragon’s Blood Got to do With it?
Dragon’s Blood is one those skin-care ingredients that only sounds strange— but actually has many skin benefits. Indigenous to South America, Dragon’s Blood is a resin oil extracted from the Croton Lechleri tree (commonly referred to as the dragon tree). When the bark is cut, the resin bleeds a dark red color. Hence its name.
WHY DRAGON’S BLOOD?
When designing our new Gua Sha Oil, we were looking for optimal “slip”— making the ritual easy and effective. But adding Dragon’s Blood Extract was a strike of genius, if we do say so ourselves ;-) The ingredient has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat injuries and pain, and topically, Dragon’s Blood can assist in wound repair and soothe inflamed skin. It’s also been found to have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, as well as help improve blood circulation and minimize inflammation. Finally, due to the high concentration of essential lipids and fatty acids, Dragon’s Blood Extract also works amazingly well to enhance barrier function that is compromised in dry skin.
- Healing
- Strengthens collagen fibers
- Anti-inflammatory
- Deeply hydrating
- Protects from external irritants
Dragon’s Blood is but one powerhouse ingredient in Boketto LAB Gua Sha Oil.
ADDITIONAL INGREDIENT POWERHOUSES
Safflower Oil
Not the buzziest of skincare oils out there, but we love Safflower Oil due to its ultra-hydrating properties and ability to tackle acne and hyperpigmentation. Safflower oil comes from the safflower plant's seeds and has a thick, buttery consistency. Commonly used in cooking, it's also great for the skin since it's rich in fatty acids, which keep the skin plump and hydrated. Benefits include:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Full of antioxidants
- Moisturizing
- Reduces acne & scars
Goji Berry
Simply put, these little berries are chock-full of antioxidants, fight free radicals, and can provide clearer, brighter skin. Goji Berry also promotes collagen and elastin production, as well as reduces hyperpigmentation and oxidative stress. For those with uneven skin, Goji Berry is an ingredient to look for because of:
- Potent antioxidant content
- Anti-inflammatory benefits
- Barrier boosting properties
- Provides UV protection
- Reduces hyperpigmentation cased by sun damage
Essential Oils
And last, but not least… the scent of our Proprietary Essential Oil Blend encourages you to take a moment, inhale deeply, and ground. (Do take that moment ;-)
HOW TO GUA SHA
Like most natural skincare products, giving it a shake before dispensing is advised. You’ll want to get that goji berry going. Then, add a few drops on clean hands, breathe in the aroma, then apply on face, neck, and decollete. Using a Gua Sha Tool, the general rule is to move lightly “up and out” — or let our free eBook, How to Gua Sha, be your guide to healthy-looking, lifted, nourished skin. But briefly:
- Look over the movements and placements of your chosen guide, and feel free to make adjustments based on your facial symmetry versus the model’s
- Begin with the neck, as it has a lot to do with what’s happening with your face. Take your time with, and don’t skim over Gua Sha-ing the neck, décolleté and collarbone areas to awaken and flush lymphatic channel ways.
- Keep moving upward, starting at jawline and ending with forehead. Each sweet begins at the centermost point of your face and works towards the hairline.
- Consistent gentle pressure results in the most effective treatment, and this, results. Pulling the skin doesn't move lymph. Sweep. Don’t drag.
- No more than 5 movements per area is necessary, but as long as you are slow and gentle there is no harm in doing more.
- When you’re finished, end the treatment by placing the length of your fingers in front and behind your ears and briskly rub up and down 12-15x.