Once rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, facial Gua Sha has evolved into a global skincare phenomenon — and in 2024, it’s more than just a viral TikTok trend. British women are increasingly turning to this gentle, non-invasive technique to reduce puffiness, enhance radiance, and support long-term skin health. Backed by growing scientific interest and dermatologist endorsements, facial Gua Sha is emerging as a key ritual in the modern self-care routine.
Advertising
Gua Sha (pronounced “gwah-shah”) means “to scrape” in Mandarin. Traditionally used on the body to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation, the facial version involves gently gliding a smooth, flat tool — typically made of jade, rose quartz, or bian stone — across the skin using upward and outward strokes. Unlike aggressive tools or invasive treatments, Gua Sha works with the skin’s natural physiology to promote lymphatic drainage, increase blood flow, and relax facial muscles.
The Science of Gua Sha
While research is still evolving, early studies suggest real benefits. A 2023 pilot study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice found that participants who used facial Gua Sha five times a week for four weeks reported reduced facial tension, improved skin elasticity, and a noticeable decrease in under-eye puffiness. Dermatologists attribute these results to enhanced microcirculation and lymphatic drainage — the body’s natural system for removing toxins and excess fluid.
“Facial Gua Sha can help reduce chronic puffiness caused by poor lymphatic flow, especially around the jawline and eyes,” explains Dr. Miriam López, a cosmetic dermatologist based in London. “It’s particularly beneficial for those who spend long hours at desks, travel frequently, or experience stress-related tension.”
Additionally, the ritual of Gua Sha may support the skin barrier. The gentle pressure stimulates collagen production over time, while the act of self-massage has been linked to reduced cortisol levels — a hormone associated with breakouts and premature ageing.
How to Use Gua Sha: A Step-by-Step Guide
For best results, perform Gua Sha 2–3 times per week on clean, moisturised skin. Use a facial oil or serum to reduce friction.
- Prepare Your Skin
Start with a clean face. Apply 3–4 drops of a nourishing facial oil — such as squalane, rosehip, or jojoba — to ensure the tool glides smoothly. - Warm the Tool
Hold the Gua Sha stone in your palms for a few seconds. Warmth enhances comfort and circulation. - Neck and Jawline
Begin at the base of the neck, gliding upwards toward the ears. Repeat 3–5 times. Then, start at the collarbone and sweep along the jawline to stimulate lymph nodes. - Cheeks and Mid-Face
Starting from the nose, sweep the tool diagonally upward toward the temples. Repeat 3–5 times per side to reduce puffiness and lift the cheek area. - Under-Eye and Brow
Use the smaller end of the tool. Gently sweep from the inner corner of the eye outward along the orbital bone. Avoid pressing too hard — the skin here is delicate. - Forehead
Start in the centre of the forehead and glide outward toward the hairline. Then, move from the brow line up to the scalp to release tension.
Always use light to medium pressure — Gua Sha should never cause redness or pain. Finish by pressing fingertips gently along the jaw and temples to further stimulate drainage.
