Learn
Sculpt • Massage • Relax
The basics
Gua sha is a hands-on technique that uses smooth handheld tools and intentional gliding movements across the skin.
In professional face and body treatments, it can be incorporated as part of massage to encourage relaxation, temporarily reduce the appearance of puffiness, and create a refreshed, sculpted look.
Our approach is controlled and intentional—not aggressive scraping.
The technique
A smooth tool is glided across properly lubricated skin using specific movements and levels of pressure.
The technique may help encourage temporary fluid movement and circulation while allowing us to work through areas of facial or muscular tension.
Instead, think of it as a specialized massage technique that can support relaxation and create temporary visible changes in puffiness and contour.
During your treatment
For many clients, gua sha is one of the most relaxing parts of their treatment.
Facial gua sha should not involve aggressively scraping or bruising the skin.
Concerns
Where we use it
Gua sha techniques may be incorporated into both face and selected body treatments.
We may use gua sha along the:
Different tools and techniques may be used during selected body treatments to complement massage and address areas of tension.
The amount of pressure and technique used on the body may differ significantly from facial gua sha.
Our approach
Gua sha may be incorporated when your treatment would benefit from massage, relaxation, temporary de-puffing, or sculpting.
It can also complement other treatment steps by giving us a hands-on way to finish or enhance your experience.
We select the technique based on your skin and treatment goals rather than following the same massage pattern on every client.
Before your treatment
We’ll also consider medications and relevant health history before performing more intensive techniques.
Afterward
Results such as de-puffing and contour enhancement are generally temporary.
Properly performed facial gua sha should not leave you significantly bruised.
Frequency
Gua sha may be incorporated whenever it complements your treatment.
It doesn’t require a strict treatment schedule.
Clients seeking ongoing relaxation or temporary de-puffing and sculpting may enjoy having it incorporated regularly into their maintenance treatments.
Good to know
Facial gua sha should generally feel comfortable and relaxing.
Significant bruising is not the goal of our facial gua sha techniques.
No. Changes related to fluid movement and puffiness are temporary.
We don’t use gua sha to claim that we’re removing toxins from your body. We use it as an intentional massage technique.
Yes, when appropriate. Body techniques, tools, and pressure may differ from those used on the face.
Potentially. If it’s appropriate for your skin, we can guide you on safe technique and how to incorporate it into your routine.
Packages
Gua sha may be incorporated into treatments throughout a package when massage, relaxation, or temporary sculpting complements your treatment goals.
Your modalities can change throughout your package as your skin’s needs change.
Booking
You don’t need to specifically request gua sha.
Book your face or body treatment and we’ll determine whether it would complement your service.
Not sure whether gua sha is appropriate following injections, a procedure, surgery, or because of a medical or skin condition?
Have questions?
Contact us or schedule a consultation before your appointment.
