Gua Sha: Your Guide to Facial Massage

If you’ve ever wondered whether gua sha is actually worth adding to your skincare routine, the answer is: it can be a lovely addition — when you use it correctly.

Gua sha is a traditional massage technique that uses a smooth tool to gently glide over the skin. For the face, the movements are much lighter than the traditional body technique you may have seen.

I use gua sha as part of my skincare routine because it’s a simple way to give your skin a little extra care while taking a few minutes for yourself.

What can gua sha do for your skin?

✨ Helps reduce the appearance of puffiness

The gentle massage movements can encourage fluid movement around the face, which can temporarily make the skin look less puffy — particularly around the eyes and jawline.

✨ Gives the skin a healthy-looking glow

Massage increases blood flow to the skin temporarily, which can leave your complexion looking fresher, brighter and more radiant.

✨ Helps release facial tension

Do you clench your jaw? Raise your eyebrows all day? Or generally carry tension in your face?

Gua sha can feel wonderfully relaxing, particularly around the jaw, temples and forehead.

✨ Can temporarily define and sculpt

The massage can help reduce puffiness and encourage fluid movement, which may make the contours of your face look more defined for a while.

It’s important to be realistic, though: gua sha isn't going to permanently lift or reshape your face. Think massage and temporary de-puffing rather than a facelift in a stone!

✨ Helps you slow down your routine

And honestly, this is one of my favourite benefits.

Skincare doesn't always have to be about adding another active ingredient. Sometimes it's about taking five minutes to massage your face, relax your muscles and enjoy your routine.

How I use my gua sha

The most important thing is slip.

Never drag a gua sha tool over dry skin. Apply a facial oil, balm or another suitable product that gives the tool enough glide.

Then use gentle, slow movements, working from the centre of the face outwards and generally moving upwards.

You don't need to press hard. Gua sha shouldn't be painful and you don't need to leave your skin red or bruised for it to have worked.

I've filmed a simple tutorial showing exactly how I use mine, so you can follow along with me.

Watch my gua sha tutorial below.