What Is a Gua Sha and How to Use It

Gua Sha is a traditional East Asian healing technique that has recently gained popularity in skincare for its natural ability to reduce puffiness, improve circulation, and enhance facial tone. If you’re curious about this ancient beauty ritual, this guide will explain what is a Gua Sha and how to use it effectively to refresh and rejuvenate your skin.

What Is a Gua Sha?

Gua Sha (pronounced "gwah shah") literally means “scraping sand” in Chinese. Traditionally, it involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to stimulate blood flow and encourage healing. In modern skincare, a Gua Sha tool—usually made of jade, rose quartz, or other smooth stones—is gently glided across the face to promote lymphatic drainage, reduce puffiness, and sculpt facial muscles.

Benefits of Using a Gua Sha Tool

  • Reduces facial puffiness and under-eye bags

  • Improves circulation and skin radiance

  • Relieves muscle tension and tightness

  • Enhances lymphatic drainage to detoxify skin

  • Helps sculpt and tone the face for a natural lift

How to Use a Gua Sha: Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Start with a Clean Face
    Wash your face thoroughly and apply a facial oil, serum, or moisturizer to help the Gua Sha tool glide smoothly without pulling the skin.

  2. Hold the Tool Correctly
    Hold the Gua Sha tool at a 15–30 degree angle to your skin, almost flat but slightly tilted.

  3. Begin at the Neck
    Start at the base of your neck and gently scrape upwards toward the jawline. This encourages lymphatic drainage.

  4. Move to the Jawline and Chin
    Glide the tool from the center of your chin along your jawline toward your ears using gentle but firm pressure.

  5. Cheeks and Cheekbones
    Move the tool from the side of your nose out towards your temples and ears.

  6. Under-Eye Area
    Use very light pressure to sweep from the inner corner of your under-eye area towards the temples.

  7. Forehead
    Glide the tool from the center of your forehead up and out towards your hairline.

  8. Repeat Each Stroke 5–10 Times
    Always move in upward and outward motions to lift and stimulate.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use gentle pressure to avoid bruising or irritation.

  • Perform Gua Sha 3–4 times a week or daily if your skin tolerates it.

  • Clean your Gua Sha tool after each use with warm water and soap.

  • Store your tool in a cool place or even in the fridge for a refreshing sensation.

When Not to Use Gua Sha

Avoid using Gua Sha on broken skin, active acne, rosacea flare-ups, or sunburned areas.