Facial Gua Sha London
Facial gua sha is a relaxing treatment in which a smooth-edged tool is glided over oiled skin to encourage circulation, help the face look less puffy and leave the complexion feeling refreshed.
Book an appointment →Understanding Facial Gua Sha
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Traditional Background
How Did Gua Sha Develop?
Gua sha is a traditional Chinese technique. The name roughly means “scraping” (gua) and the redness it can bring to the skin (sha). Traditionally, a smooth-edged tool, such as one made of buffalo horn, is stroked over oiled skin to improve local circulation.
On the body, gua sha is firm and usually produces redness or mild bruising. Facial gua sha is a much gentler adaptation: light, sweeping strokes follow the contours of the face, aiming to move Qi and fluids, relieve tension in the jaw and brow, and leave the skin looking fresh, without the marks of body gua sha.
MovesQi, Blood and fluids in the faceDrainspuffiness, especially around the eyes and jawRelaxestension in the jaw, brow and neckRefreshesthe look of the complexionFigure 1. Traditional aims of facial gua sha.
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Modern Scientific Perspective
How Does Facial Gua Sha Work?
The gliding pressure of the tool is thought to work mainly through the skin’s surface circulation and the soft tissues beneath it.
Smooth tool on oiled skin
light, sweeping strokesSurface circulationPressure and stroking may temporarily increase blood flow in the skin, giving a brighter, rosier look.Fluid movementGentle strokes towards the neck may help fluid move away from puffy areas.RelaxationThe slow, rhythmic massage can help release facial tension and feel very calming.Figure 2. How facial gua sha is thought to work.
Most research on gua sha has looked at the body rather than the face. A small study in healthy volunteers found that gua sha on the body produced a short-lived increase in surface microcirculation at the treated area[1], and a randomised trial in people with chronic neck pain reported short-term improvements in pain[2]. We are not aware of high-quality trials of facial gua sha, so its benefits for the skin should be seen as cosmetic and temporary rather than proven.
References
- Nielsen A, Knoblauch NTM, Dobos GJ, Michalsen A, Kaptchuk TJ. The effect of gua sha treatment on the microcirculation of surface tissue: a pilot study in healthy subjects. EXPLORE. 2007;3(5):456–466. doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2007.06.001
- Braun M, Schwickert M, Nielsen A, et al. Effectiveness of traditional Chinese “gua sha” therapy in patients with chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial. Pain Medicine. 2011;12(3):362–369. doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4637.2011.01053.x
What you need to know
- 1Before your treatment
What to Prepare
Ideally, come without make-up, or wear it lightly. Wear comfortable clothing and avoid coming very hungry or overly full.
Please let your practitioner know if you have sensitive skin, rosacea, active breakouts, broken skin, recent cosmetic treatments such as fillers or injectables, or if you take blood-thinning medication.
- 2During your treatment
What to Expect
- Your practitioner applies oil or lotion to your face and neck.
- A smooth-edged gua sha tool is then glided over the skin in gentle, sweeping strokes.
- Pressure is adjusted to your comfort. The scraping may cause mild discomfort in tense areas but should not be painful.
- Your skin may look a little pink afterwards; this usually settles quickly.
- 3After your treatment
Aftercare
- Keep the treatment area clean and dry.
- Keep hydrated.
- Avoid harsh products or heavy exfoliation for the rest of the day.
Any effect on puffiness or glow is usually temporary, which is why many people enjoy facial gua sha regularly.
Who facial gua sha is for
Facial gua sha is a gentle, relaxing treatment for people who would like to look after their skin and unwind. These are some of the most common reasons our patients choose it.
Facial puffiness
Many people choose gua sha to help their face look less puffy, especially around the eyes and jawline.
Dull-looking skin
Often used to bring a temporary, natural glow to tired-looking skin.
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Jaw & facial tension
Gentle strokes along the jaw and brow are popular with people who clench their jaw or frown when stressed.
Stress & relaxation
Many patients simply find the slow, rhythmic treatment deeply calming.
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Neck & shoulder tightness
Treatment usually includes the neck, which many people find eases tightness.
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A natural skincare boost
Often chosen as a non-invasive addition to a regular skincare routine.
Your practitioner will assess whether facial gua sha is right for you at your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I have facial gua sha?
Is gua sha painful?
Will it leave marks on my face?
Is facial gua sha suitable for everyone?
Will gua sha lift my face?
Still have a question? Ask our practitioners.
What our patients say on Google
I had acupuncture and cupping with Emma, and she truly worked wonders on my back and neck. I came in barely able to turn my head, and now I feel so much better relaxed, pain-free, and mobile again. I’d had a bad experience elsewhere before, but Emma completely turned things around. Highly recommend!
I am very satisfied with the herbal remedies for perimenopause. I don't have hot flashes after the medication. And electric acupuncture soothes my plantar fascists on both feet. The capsules for bowel movement are working very well.
The staff specially Yao meng did an excellent job. In addition she is very kind and explain to the patients what to expect. Thank you very much.
I highly recommend Acupro. They are very professional and take the time to tailor your treatment for you.
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Ready to try Facial Gua Sha?
Not sure what to book? Just choose the initial treatment closest to your concern: Women's Health, Pain, Skin Condition or General Wellness. Your practitioner will recommend whether Facial Gua Sha treatment suits you during your consultation, so there's no need to decide now.
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