The gua sha guide: How to use gua sha for face + body
A little pressure goes a long way.
Gua sha is all about technique. Slow, considered movements can help relieve muscular tension, support lymphatic drainage + boost circulation. And when it comes to pressure, more isn’t better.
The key is to take it slow, keep the tool close to the skin + always use it with a serum, oil or moisturiser.
What is gua sha?
Gua sha is a massage technique where a smooth tool is moved across the skin in slow, deliberate strokes.
For the face, the movements are gentle, working from the neck upwards across the jaw, cheeks + forehead.
For the body, a larger gua sha tool can be used in longer strokes along the arms, legs + torso, with pressure adjusted to what feels good.
Different areas. Same idea: slow movements, considered pressure + properly prepped skin.
How to use gua sha on your face
Start by applying a generous layer of The Glow Serum, or your favourite serum or face oil. This allows The Gua Sha to move smoothly across the skin without pulling.
1. Hold it almost flat
Hold The Gua Sha almost flat against the skin rather than at a sharp angle.
2. Move outwards + upwards
Sweep slowly outwards and upwards using gentle pressure. Always work in one direction — never back and forth.
3. Start at the neck
Begin at the neck, then move along the jaw, cheeks + forehead.
Repeat each movement 3–5 times before moving on to the next area.
4. Go lighter for puffiness
If puffiness is your focus, keep the pressure light + the movements slow.
How to use gua sha on your body
The principle is similar, but on the body you can use longer strokes + adjust the pressure depending on what feels good.
Step 1: Prep the skin
Apply The Body Retinoil, or your favourite body oil or moisturiser, generously to the skin.
Step 2: Work in long, slow strokes
Using The Body Gua Sha, work along the arms, legs + torso. Follow the natural contours of the body, moving outwards.
Step 3: Avoid bony areas
Work where the tool can move comfortably across the skin + avoid going directly over bony areas.
Step 4: Adjust the pressure
Use a level of pressure that feels good for you.
The aim: relieve muscular tension, stimulate lymphatic drainage + boost circulation.
How much pressure should you use?
For the face, gentle is enough. If you’re focusing on puffiness, go even lighter.
For the body, adjust the pressure depending on the area + what feels comfortable.
More pressure isn’t automatically more effective. Keep the movements controlled + let the tool do the work.
Common gua sha mistakes
A few things to avoid:
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Using gua sha on dry skin
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Holding the tool at a sharp angle
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Moving too quickly
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Going back and forth
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Using too much pressure on the face
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Working directly over bony areas on the body
Slow + considered wins.
How to clean your gua sha
Your gua sha likes a routine too.
Wash it with soap + warm water after use.
Frequently asked questions about gua sha
Do you use gua sha with serum or oil?
Yes. Apply a generous layer of serum or face oil before using gua sha on the face. For the body, use a body oil or moisturiser. This helps the tool move smoothly without pulling at the skin.
Which direction should you use gua sha?
On the face, work slowly outwards + upwards. Start at the neck, then move along the jaw, cheeks + forehead.
On the body, use long, slow strokes that follow the contours of the body, moving outwards.
How many times should you repeat each movement?
For the face, repeat each movement 3–5 times before moving on.
Should you press hard with gua sha?
No. Gentle pressure is enough for the face. For puffiness, keep it especially light. On the body, adjust the pressure to what feels comfortable.
Can you move gua sha back and forth?
Avoid it. Work slowly in one direction rather than moving the tool back and forth.
Final thoughts
Gua sha doesn’t need to be complicated.
Prep the skin. Keep the tool almost flat. Move slowly + in one direction. Adjust the pressure depending on where you’re using it.
A little pressure goes a long way.