Gua sha is one of the simplest ways to add a calm, hands-on moment to your skincare routine. All you need is a smooth stone, a few drops of facial oil and five minutes. Here is how to do it, step by step.
What is gua sha?
Gua sha (pronounced "gwah-shah") is a massage technique that uses a flat, smooth tool glided across the skin with light, upward strokes. Used on the face, it is a relaxing self-care ritual that many people enjoy in the morning to wake up their skin, or at night to unwind.
What you need
- A gua sha stone with smooth, polished edges, like the Orgezz Natural Stone Gua Sha
- A facial oil or serum, so the stone glides without tugging
- Clean skin and clean hands
The 5-minute gua sha routine
- Prep (30 seconds). Cleanse your face, then apply 3 to 5 drops of oil or a generous layer of serum to your face and neck.
- Neck (1 minute). Hold the stone almost flat against the skin (about 15 degrees). Glide from the base of the neck up to the jaw, 5 times on each side.
- Jawline (1 minute). Use the notched edge. Start at the chin and glide along the jaw toward the ear, 5 times per side.
- Cheeks (1 minute). Use the long curved edge. Glide from the side of the nose out toward the ear, 5 times per side.
- Under the eyes (30 seconds). Use very light pressure. Glide from the inner corner outward toward the temple, 3 times per side.
- Forehead (1 minute). Glide from the eyebrows up to the hairline, moving across the forehead.
Mistakes to avoid
- Skipping the oil. A dry stone drags on the skin.
- Pressing too hard. Light to medium pressure is enough. It should feel pleasant, never painful.
- Going back and forth. Glide in one direction, lift the stone, and start again.
- Using it on irritated skin. Skip areas with breakouts, cuts or sunburn.
How often?
Most people enjoy gua sha 3 to 5 times a week. Consistency matters more than pressure: a gentle, regular ritual is the goal.
Make it even more refreshing
Finish with a cool roll: an ice roller straight from the fridge feels great after gua sha, especially in the morning. Our De-Puff Duo pairs both tools and saves $5.99 compared with buying them separately.
Gua sha is a cosmetic self-care practice, not a medical treatment. If you have a skin condition, ask a dermatologist first.