How to Gua Sha: Face, Body, Eyes, and Nose

Gua sha is a traditional East Asian massage practice using a smooth-edged tool to glide, press, and massage the skin. Traditionally used on the body, it is now also loved as a gentle face and self-care ritual.

The idea behind gua sha is simple: slow, repeated strokes help release tension, encourage a refreshed feeling, and bring attention back to the body. It is not about force. A good gua sha ritual should feel steady, grounding, and comfortable.

For the face, always apply facial oil or serum first so the tool can glide smoothly. Hold the tool fairly flat against the skin and use light pressure. Glide outwards and upwards along the cheeks, jawline, forehead, and under the cheekbones. Around the eyes, use very gentle pressure only, staying on the orbital bone and avoiding the eyelids and direct eye area.

For the nose area, use small, light strokes along the sides of the nose and outwards toward the cheeks. This can feel especially refreshing when the face feels tired or puffy.

For the body, apply body oil or balm first. Use longer strokes on the neck, shoulders, arms, legs, and areas that feel tight. Body gua sha can use slightly firmer pressure, but it should never feel painful.

Avoid using gua sha on broken skin, bruises, sunburn, active irritation, inflamed areas, or varicose veins. Clean and dry the tool after every use.