Is gua sha effective?

Author: Dr. Ewald Pfannerstill MD  |  Last update: Tuesday, December 30, 2025

According to a 2022 article in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology , short-term gua sha use may help reduce the appearance of puffiness through lymphatic drainage, and more regular use could lead to benefits in the body's vascular dilation response. Read more about anti-aging facial massage.

How long will it take to see results from gua sha?

You'll see results within a week of using your Gua Sha twice daily! Gua Sha facial massages are also known to boost the immune system, cure digestive problems, and improve blood flow and circulation!

What do dermatologists think of gua sha?

Is it good for your skin? "Gua sha is used as a tool for facial massage to promote circulation, boost lymphatic drainage, and relax facial muscles," says dermatologist Dr Jinah Yoo. "This technique can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin texture and tone, and enhance overall complexion.

What will happen if I use gua sha every day?

You should see smoother and more contoured skin, especially when performing Gua Sha daily. Congratulations, now you have another holistic healing practice to incorporate into your skin care ritual!

What are the disadvantages of gua sha?

Gua Sha Side Effects

Typically, gua sha is considered safe. But you may have some bruising or notice that your skin looks discolored for a while. You could also be sore and tender afterward. These effects usually go away in 3-4 days.

I TRIED GUA SHA FOR 30 DAYS... & ... OMG !!! | KAUSHAL BEAUTY

Should I gua sha at night or morning?

A morning Gua Sha routine can help treat puffiness and energize the skin, whereas a night routine will help relax the muscles and release tight connective tissue in the face. Remember that the key to getting the desired results is consistently doing the Gua Sha facial massage.

Does a gua sha actually drain lymph nodes?

Gua Sha, or jade scraping, is a technique that uses a smooth, thin, jade stone to glide along the lymphatic system to improve blood circulation and drainage function. Massaging or scraping along this network of vessels – similar to blood vessels – can help to de-puff the face and rebalance fluid retention.

Is gua sha or jade roller better?

If you seek targeted facial massage and want to contour areas like the jawline and cheekbones, a Gua Sha tool may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a quick, refreshing lift that provides a gentle facial massage, a jade roller would be ideal for your skincare routine.

Do gua sha work for jawline?

Gua sha massage is an excellent way to help achieve a more sculpted, defined jawline over time.

Can gua sha get rid of double chin?

This may make your face appear temporarily slimmer and improve your complexion. It is important to understand that it will not get rid of fat deposits contributing to a double chin or providing any long-term, significant changes to your facial contours.

Is gua sha worth the hype?

But, the good news is that there are studies which show positive results from a health perspective. A 2016 study suggests gua sha helps improve immune functions of the skin and body, as well as boost skin circulation and its response against intradermal antigens.

Does gua sha work permanently?

Although there is no strong scientific evidence to fully support the claim that Gua Sha provides a lasting lifting effect or sculpts facial muscles, the massaging action of Gua Sha may temporarily enhance facial contours by improving circulation and reducing fluid retention, which can give the appearance of a more ...

Does gua sha release muscle knots?

Gua sha, also known as scraping, is a healing technique that uses a smoothed-edged bone or stone tool to release muscle tension. Also called the Graston Technique™, which is performed by athletic and physical trainers, gua sha dates back to Eastern Asian medicine.

What are the disadvantages of facial massage?

The drawbacks of using facial massage for anti-aging include potential skin irritation, excessive tugging on delicate skin, and discomfort during treatment. It's essential to proceed with care to avoid negative effects on the skin's appearance and health.

What happens if you do gua sha wrong?

Incorrect technique and excessive pressure

This can cause bruising if the tool is used too harshly or in the wrong areas. The delicate skin of the face is especially susceptible to bruising from gua sha. Bruising from gua sha is usually temporary and will go away on its own within a few days.

Does gua sha really lift the face?

It's a myth that using a gua sha will give you a 'slimmer' face. Instead, gua sha acts on the muscle tissue, fascia and helps to encourage blood flow. '[Gua sha] has significant brightening, lifting and sculpting improvements for your face.

What is the disadvantage of jade roller?

“The coldness of the stone can certainly help reduce puffiness. But the drawbacks are if you rub too vigorously, you can actually aggravate acne or create irritation.” She agrees that using a roller regularly can have some skin-deep benefits, but adds that it's not the jade itself that's the special ingredient.

Which is better, rose quartz or jade gua sha?

Rose quartz is associated with qualities like emotional healing, peace, and calm in crystal healing. Its gentle vibration is thought to help relax muscles when used in gua sha. Jade would work best if you want a cooling sensation during gua sha.

Can I gua sha my armpits?

Using simple and gentle strokes against your chest, neck and underarms, The Applicator can help relieve tension, boost immunity and increase blood circulation around the skin.

Where does the fluid go after lymphatic massage?

A massage therapist uses lymphatic drainage techniques to move lymph from your tissues to your lymph nodes, which eases the swelling.

Does gua sha work scientifically?

Results: Gua Sha caused a fourfold increase in microcirculation PUs at the treated area for the first 7.5 minutes following treatment and a significant increase in surface microcirculation during the entire 25 minutes of the study period following treatment (P < . 001).

What should be avoided after gua sha?

Vigorous Exercise. A common misconception is that you can jump right back into your regular routine, which often includes exercise. However, you should consider holding off on your rigorous gym sessions. Gua Sha stimulates the flow of blood and qi, the life energy according to Chinese medicine, throughout your body.

Is there a difference between cheap and expensive gua sha?

while low-cost plastic Gua Sha tools are convenient for occasional use, high-end mineral stone tools - especially precious jade - provide a noticeably superior Gua Sha massage experience that's both more effective and deeply relaxing.

How long does it take for gua sha to start working?

After two weeks of regular practice, you may notice smoother, firmer skin and enhanced facial contours as circulation and collagen production increase. Long-term benefits, seen after 6-8 weeks, include reduced fine lines, improved skin elasticity, and a more lifted, youthful appearance.

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