The Holistic Benefits of Gua Sha for Face & Body

Exploring an Ancient Technique for Beautiful Skin... at Any Age

GUA SHA, also known as skin scraping therapy, is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves scraping your skin with a smooth-edged tool to improve circulation. It is generally performed on the back, buttocks, arms and legs. A gentle version of it is used on the face and neck, which I incorporate into my healthy living program 2-3 times a week.

Here is my favorite instructional Video on YouTube that will show you exactly how to get started — going through the entire face and neck procedure from start to finish. Really excellent!

Myriad Benefits

This practice helps to improve both blood flow and lymphatic drainage, a process by which the body maintains its fluid levels and removes cellular debris and harmful substances. You can use Gua Sha massage on your own, as I do, or have a licensed acupuncturist or aesthetician perform it. Gua Sha massage requires using a smooth-edged tool. These tools can vary in size and shape depending on the area of the body they’re intended for. Tools for the face are usually smaller and handheld, while tools for the body can sometimes be larger. You can easily find a Gua Sha tool online. I purchased my facial Gua Sha tools at my local natural food store in the beauty section. You can also use a jade roller on your face.

On the face, the tool should be gently swept upward and outward across the face with slow, light pressure. When practiced consistently, it can soften the look of puffiness, release tightness in the jaw and brow and enhance natural glow. With our current change of season, Gua Sha offers a grounding counterbalance, combining circulation support with rhythmic touch that helps the nervous system settle. Subtle shifts create visible change.

Cleaning the Tools

Cleaning the tool after each use can help reduce the risk of infection. Avoid using the tool on open wounds and other areas of the skin that are irritated. If you have a chronic health condition, take blood thinners, have a blood clotting disorder or are taking medication that affects your blood cell production (such as chemotherapy), please consult with a healthcare professional before use.

As you’ll see in the attached video above, here is the facial in a nutshell, but it will be so worth it to view the video before you start for your first time:

1. Start with clean skin and a few drops of facial oil.

2. Using light pressure, glide the tool upward and outward from the center of the face in slow movements. I usually use a 15- to 30-degree angle.

3. My last step is to finish up with slow sweeping upward strokes on the neck.

Please refer to my books, UPLIFTED and A HUG IN A MUG, for more info on Gua Sha as well as circulation, inflammation, detoxification, rejuvenation, relaxation, meditation, whole-body vitality, skin healing and simple ways to create a natural, healthy glow and a youthful radiance to your skin at any age.

You’ll find the links for the books’ info pages and my favorite healthy living products HERE.