Gua Sha 101: Tips, Tricks, and Why It’s Worth It

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Lately, I’ve noticed my face looking a bit puffier than usual.

The first time I noticed a slight roundness, I remembered a video I’d seen of a woman using a Gua Sha tool to define her jawline.

Curiosity got the best of me, and I quickly ordered one off Amazon, not knowing what I was actually supposed to be doing with this thing.

After trying a Gua Sha for the first time, I had so many questions. If you’re considering trying one yourself, you probably have similar questions.

In this post, I’m going to share what I’ve learned from adding a Gua Sha to my skincare routine.

Before we get into how to use a Gua Sha, I’m sure your first question is, Does it really work?

The answer is yes, you will see a noticeable difference within the first 30 days, but this is not a permanent fix. Over time, natural tension and fluid in the face can return. Consistency and healthy lifestyle habits are key.

What is Gua Sha?

A Gua Sha is a tool used in traditional Chinese medicine that is used to massage the face. It’s great for boosting circulation, easing tension, and reducing puffiness. It’s not an instant fix, but if you use it consistently, it can make a noticeable difference over time.

Gua Sha is such a relaxing ritual to add to your skincare routine; it’s like giving yourself a mini-facial at the start or end of your day.

How do I choose the right Gua Sha?

As a beginner, I was more concerned with price than any other factor, but to my surprise, most Gua Shas I found were under $20.

The most popular Gua Sha materials you can choose from are jade, rose quartz, stainless steel, and bian stone.

Jade is a green stone that is said to have healing properties that push out toxins and reduce stress.

Rose Quartz is a pink stone that has a calming energy that can help elevate your skincare routine.

Stainless steel is the most durable out of the four. It’s easy to clean and can be put in the fridge for an added cooling effect. If you choose to do so.

Bian stone was the most expensive material I’ve come across. You’ll definitely be spending more than $20 for this one. Bian Stone is said to have therapeutic properties because it contains minerals that are good for the body.

How do I prep my skin for Gua Sha?

You should cleanse your face before using a Gua Sha.

In my experience, I did notice the Gua Sha pick up a bit of residue over time, whether that was from makeup, dead skin, or oil buildup.

I will admit, that I did attempted to Gua Sha without oil on my first try, and it was not a pleasant experience.

When choosing an oil, it really depends on your skin type. If you have oily skin, you don’t want to choose something that will clog your pores.

I have dry skin and decided to use rosehip oil from Good Molecules for my Gua Sha routine.

The Good Molecules Cold-Pressed Rosehip Oil, is a light weight, hydrating facial oil that brights and plump the skin. It is antioxidant rich and delivers natural Vitamin A and helps restore skin elasticity.

STEP-BY-STEP GUA SHA TUTORIAL

1. Prep: Once your face is cleaned, warm the oil in your hands and apply it to your face and neck.
2. Shoulders: Using the heart-shaped side, starting with your shoulders, slide the Gua Sha up 5x.
3. Repeat on your neck. (Upward motion 5x)
4. Jaw: Glide from chin to ear. (5x on each side)
5. Cheek: Using the straight side of the Gua Sha, line it up against your cheek. Holding your nose, drag the Gua Sha up towards your ears. (5x each side)
6. Undereye: Using the highest part of the heart, place the tip underneath the eye and swipe the Gua Sha up towards your temple.
7. Brows: Use the dip of the heart to massage your brow bone. (5x Both sides)
8. Forehead: Use the flat side of your Gua Sha, align it horizontally, and slide the Gua Sha up your forehead. Then, slide it to the left of your forehead and the right of your forehead. (Each step 5x)

Gua Sha Tips:

• Use light pressure and let the tool do the work; you don’t need to press hard.
• Hold the skin taut with your free hand for smoother gliding.
• On tense areas (like the jawline), use small circular motions at the end of each glide to release tightness.
• Keep your Gua Sha at a 15-30-degree angle when sliding against your face.

How do I clean my Gua Sha?

You should clean your Gua Sha after every use to avoid any built-up grime. To clean your Gua Sha, simply use a gentle cleanser or spray with rubbing alcohol. Make sure to dry it completely before you store it away.