A Complete Guide to Gua Sha: 5 Benefits and How to Use It

Gua Sha has become a popular skincare technique, offering a natural way to improve skin health and radiance. Whether you’re a beginner or already love using a Gua Sha tool, this guide will cover everything from the basics to advanced techniques. You’ll discover the history of Gua Sha, its benefits, and how to use it correctly to get the best results.

What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is an ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice where a smooth, flat tool is used to scrape the skin gently. Originally, it was used on the body to relieve muscle pain and improve circulation. Over time, Gua Sha has been adapted for the face, offering skincare benefits like reducing puffiness, promoting lymphatic drainage, and improving blood flow.

In TCM, it is believed that qi (chi)—the body’s life energy—must flow freely for overall health. When qi becomes stagnant, it can cause issues like dull skin, puffiness, and tension. Gua Sha helps restore the flow of qi, leading to a healthier and more youthful appearance.

How Gua Sha Works

Gua Sha works by stimulating circulation and encouraging the lymphatic system to remove toxins from the body. The scraping motion improves blood flow, which helps to reduce puffiness, brighten the skin, and ease tension in the face and neck. When used correctly, Gua Sha can naturally lift and sculpt the face over time.

For best results, Gua Sha should always be used with a facial oil, which helps the tool glide smoothly over the skin without causing irritation. Oils like jojoba, rosehip, and marula are commonly used as they provide hydration and nourishment.

Choosing the Right Gua Sha Tool

There are different types of Gua Sha tools available, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in your results.

Material Options

• Jade – Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, jade has natural cooling properties and is believed to balance the body’s energy.

• Rose Quartz – Known for its calming properties, rose quartz is a popular choice for sensitive skin.

• Stainless Steel – A durable, non-porous option that stays cool naturally and is more hygienic than stone tools.

Many people are switching to stainless steel Gua Sha because it is long-lasting, easy to clean, and better for reducing puffiness due to its natural cooling effect. Unlike jade and rose quartz, stainless steel does not absorb oils or bacteria, making it a more hygienic choice.

How to Use a Gua Sha Stone

Using Gua Sha correctly is essential to get the best results. Follow these steps to incorporate it into your skincare routine.

Step 1: Start with a Clean Face

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup. This ensures that your skin is fresh before using the Gua Sha tool.

Step 2: Apply Facial Oil

A few drops of gua sha face oil will allow the tool to glide smoothly across your skin. This step prevents tugging, which could cause irritation.

Step 3: Hold the Tool at the Correct Angle

Keep the tool at a 15- to 45-degree angle against your skin. This ensures that the pressure is evenly distributed and does not cause unnecessary strain.

Step 4: Use Gentle, Upward Strokes

Move the tool in an outward and upward direction. Never drag the tool downward, as this can reduce the lifting effect.

Here’s how to use Gua Sha on different areas of the face:

• Neck – Glide the tool upward from the collarbone to the jawline using long strokes.

• Jawline – Use the U-shaped edge of the tool to move from the chin to the ear.

• Cheeks – Start from the side of the nose and move outward toward the temples.

• Undereyes – Use light pressure to glide from the inner corner of the eye outward.

• Eyebrows – Follow the curve of the brow bone for a lifting effect.

• Forehead – Move the tool upward from the eyebrows to the hairline.

Step 5: Repeat Each Stroke 3-5 Times

Consistency is key! Perform each stroke multiple times to enhance circulation and maximize the benefits.

For an extra soothing effect, place your Gua Sha tool in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before use.

Benefits of Gua Sha

1. Reduces Puffiness and Swelling

Gua Sha stimulates lymphatic drainage, helping to remove excess fluid and toxins from the face. This leads to a more defined and less swollen appearance.

2. Improves Blood Circulation

The scraping motion enhances blood flow, which brings oxygen and nutrients to the skin. This results in a natural, healthy glow.

3. Relieves Facial Tension

Many people hold stress in their jaw, forehead, and temples. Gua Sha helps release tension, reducing stress-related wrinkles and headaches.

4. Enhances Skincare Absorption

Using Gua Sha with facial oil allows for better absorption of active ingredients, making your skincare products more effective.

5. Naturally Lifts and Sculpts the Face

Regular use of Gua Sha can help define the jawline, cheekbones, and brow area, creating a naturally lifted appearance.

Why Stainless Steel Gua Sha is Better than Jade and Rose Quartz

While traditional Gua Sha tools are made from jade and rose quartz, stainless steel has several advantages:

• Self-Cooling – Naturally stays cool, even without refrigeration.

• More Hygienic – Stainless steel is non-porous, meaning bacteria cannot build up inside it.

• Stronger and More Durable – Unlike jade and quartz, stainless steel won’t break if dropped.

• Better for De-Puffing – The cooling properties help to reduce inflammation more effectively.

If you’re looking for a long-lasting, eco-friendly option, a stainless steel Gua Sha is a great investment.

How Often Should You Use Gua Sha?

For best results, use Gua Sha 3-5 times per week. Some people prefer to use it daily, but it’s important to be gentle and listen to your skin. Overuse or applying too much pressure can cause redness or sensitivity.

If you’re a beginner, start with light pressure and gradually increase as your skin gets used to the technique.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Gua Sha

To get the most out of your Gua Sha routine, avoid these mistakes:

• Using Gua Sha on dry skin – Always apply a facial oil to prevent irritation.

• Applying too much pressure – Gua Sha should feel relaxing, not painful.

• Moving too fast – Slow, controlled movements are best for stimulating circulation.

• Skipping the neck – The neck plays a key role in lymphatic drainage, so don’t neglect it.

• Being inconsistent – Regular use is essential to see lasting results.

Final Thoughts

Gua Sha is a powerful tool for improving skin health and relaxation. When used correctly with gua sha face oil, it can enhance circulation, reduce puffiness, and provide a natural lifting effect.

Switching to a stainless steel Gua Sha is a great way to enjoy all these benefits while ensuring durability and hygiene. By making Gua Sha a regular part of your skincare routine, you can achieve healthier, glowing skin in just a few minutes a day.

If you’re interested in eco-friendly skincare, check out sustainable beauty products for Gua Sha-friendly oils and more.