Gua Sha 101: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started

Let’s get real for a sec—have you ever stumbled across something online and thought, “Okay, I need to try this”? That’s exactly how I fell into the Gua Sha rabbit hole. It was just another night of mindless scrolling when I saw people on social media gliding these gorgeous stones across their faces, looking like they’d cracked the code to radiant skin. I was curious, a little skeptical, but totally intrigued. Fast forward, and Gua Sha becomes my go-to for feeling polished and relaxed. No hype, just my honest story of how I got hooked, what I’ve learned, and why I think you’ll want to give it a spin. If you’re wondering what this whole deal is about, stick with me—I’ve got you covered with everything you need to start your own Gua Sha adventure.

How Gua Sha Snuck into My Life

It all started one lazy Sunday evening. I was sprawled on my couch, flipping through Instagram, when a reel from @glowwithmar stopped me dead. She was using this sleek rose quartz tool, and her skin looked so dewy. I’m not usually one to chase trends, but this felt like something worth exploring. A quick Google led me to an article in Vogue (November, 2023) called “The Expert Guide on how to Gua sha” which hyped it as a game-changer for glow and relaxation. I ordered a rose quartz tool that night, figuring I’d see what the fuss was about.

My first attempt was a comedy of errors. I barely used any oil, pressed like I was carving a sculpture, and my face was like, “Girl, what?” I had to laugh—I looked more irritated than radiant. But I wasn’t ready to quit. I found a YouTube tutorial by Sandra Lanshin that walked me through it like I was a kid learning to tie my shoes. A few tries later, I was in love. My skin felt smoother, my jaw wasn’t screaming from stress, and I was actually excited to spend 5 minutes on myself every night. A month in, I’m all-in, and I’m here to share the good, the bad, and the glowy.

What is Gua Sha, Anyway?

If you're scratching your head, don't worry; I was, too. Gua Sha (pronounced "gwa sha") is a centuries-old Chinese method. The name translates to "scraping" (gua) and "red spots" (sha), which sounds intense but isn't the whole tale. Traditionally, it was about treating pain or getting your energy flowing by massaging the skin with instruments such as jade or horn until it turned rosy. These days, it’s a beauty staple, where you use a smooth stone like rose quartz, jade, or bian stone are big hits to gently stroke your face or body. It wakes up your circulation, eases tension, and gives you that “I just left a spa” vibe. I stick to my face most days, but it’s also a lifesaver for my stiff neck after too many hours at my desk.

Why Gua Sha got me Hooked?

I’m not here to oversell it, but Gua Sha’s got some serious perks that make it more than a passing fad. Here’s what I’ve noticed and why I’m such a fan:

1. Hello, Natural Glow - Those gentle strokes get your blood moving, which is like a nutrient boost for your skin. It shakes off that tired look and leaves you with a fresh, awake vibe. An article in Healthline (May 2021, “How to Use Gua Sha for Tension, Puffiness, and Lymphatic Drainage”) mentioned how it improves microcirculation, and I totally get it, my cheeks have this subtle flush now, like I’ve been on a brisk walk.

2. Puffiness, Who? - Mornings after tacos or wine used to mean a bloated face. Not anymore. Gua Sha helps move extra fluid out, so my jawline looks sharp and my under-eye bags are history. I read in Allure (April 2022, “What is Gua Sha and how do you use it?”) that it’s great for lymphatic drainage, and it’s like my face agrees every time I do it.

3. Stress Takes a Backseat - I didn’t know how tense my jaw was until I started this. Gliding the tool over my face, especially around my temples, feels like I’m undoing a knot. It’s not just my muscles; it’s my headspace too. Those few minutes are my daily reset, no meditation app required.

4. Skincare That Actually Works - I’ve got a drawer full of serums, and Gua Sha makes them pull their weight. Using the tool to apply them helps everything soak in better, so my skin stays soft and hydrated. 

5. A Little Me-Time Magic - Life’s a lot, and finding time to slow down is tough. But Gua Sha’s like a mini vacation I can take at my bathroom sink. It’s become this ritual where I’m like, “You got this,” and it feels good to show up for myself. Honestly, it’s as satisfying as my morning latte.

Finding the Perfect Tool

Picking a tool can feel like choosing a new phone—so many options! Here’s what I figured out :-

1. Material - Jade’s cool and traditional, rose quartz feels fancy, and bian stone’s got this earthy vibe. I chose rose quartz because it’s pretty, but they all work fine. Go with what catches your eye.

2. Shape - Look for curves that fit your face like along your jaw or cheeks. Mine’s got a little dip that’s perfect for my chin. Avoid super sharp edges unless you’re going for precision points.

3. Quality - Cheap tools can be rough and irritate your skin. I got mine ESW Beauty Hibiscus White Tea Rose Quartz Gua Sha after reading good things in Elle (“10 Best Gua Sha tools to snatch your Jawline and Relieve stress”). Budget ones can work, but check reviews to avoid duds.

One trick I love: keep it in the fridge and it’s a total wake-up call for puffy mornings.

My Gua Sha Routine (No Pro Skills Needed)

I’m no expert, but I’ve got a flow that works for me, pulled from trial and error plus tips from Sandra Lanshin’s YouTube. 

Here’s how I do it :- 

1. Prep the Canvas - Wash my face to start fresh, then slick on some oil or serum. I’m into squalane oil, it’s light and doesn’t clog my pores.

2. Get the Angle - Hold the tool nearly flat, like you’re brushing the skin. I tilt it just a bit, maybe 15 degrees, so it glides without tugging.

3. Neck First - Start at my collarbone, sweeping up to my jaw, 3–5 times each side. It’s like clearing the way for the good stuff.

4. Face Time - Move up and out—chin to ear for my jaw, nose to temple for my cheeks. I take it slow, a few strokes per spot.

5. Finish Strong - Wash the tool with soap, pat my face dry, and lock it all in with moisturizer.

I do this 3–4 times a week, about 5 minutes tops. More than that, and my skin feels like it’s had enough.

Oops Moments to Skip

I learned the hard way so you don’t have to. Here’s what I goofed up :-

1. Don’t Go Hard - I pressed too much at first, and my face was red for hours. Allure’s 2019 article warned about this that light pressure is plenty.

2. Oil’s Your Friend - I skipped oil once, and it was like dragging sandpaper. Never again. Always use something slippery.

3. Up, Not Down - Downward strokes feel weird and don’t help. Stick upward and outward for that lifted look.

4. Keep It Clean - Forgot to wash my tool once, and my skin threw a fit. Soap and water every time, no exceptions.

Gua Sha Beyond my Face

I mostly focus on my face, but this trick’s got range. I tried it on my neck after a day of bad posture, and it was like pressing reset on my muscles. Historically, people used it everywhere like the back, legs, arms to ease soreness. A Healthline article (2024) said it might help with chronic pain, and while I’m no scientist, my shoulders feel looser after a session. Just grab a bigger tool and keep the same gentle approach.

My Advice for Newbies

Starting out? Here’s what I’d tell myself a month ago :-

1. Baby Steps - Five minutes is enough to feel it. No need to go overboard.

2. Learn from Others - YouTube’s a goldmine. Sandra Lanshin’s videos are like having a coach.

3. Give It Time - I saw changes after a couple of weeks. Keep at it, and you’ll get there.

4. Trust Your Skin - If it’s red or sore, ease up. You’ll figure out what feels right.

Summary 

I’ve tried plenty of skincare hacks such as masks, gadgets, you name it, but Gua Sha’s different. It’s not just about the mirror (though my skin’s never looked better),  it’s about how it makes me feel. It’s cheap, simple, and turns a few minutes into something that’s just for me. Social media might’ve sparked my interest, but the way it calms my mind and perks up my face is why it’s staying. If you’re on the fence, grab a tool, put on some chill tunes, and give it a whirl. I’m betting you’ll be just as obsessed as I am.

Recommended Products by Blue Nectar:

Kumkumadi Face Oil and Face Serum for Glowing Skin (26 herbs)

Best Vitamin C Serum for Face with Radiant & Spotless Skin (9 Herbs, 30ml)

Kumkumadi 24K Gold Serum for Face with Advanced Skin Repair and Firming (24 herbs)

Shubhr Bakuchi Oil Free Face Serum | Natural Retinol Alternative for Youthful Skin (30 ml)

Related Articles:

Reasons you should give yourself a face oil massage regularly

References:

https://www.vogue.com/article/gua-sha-history-at-home-self-care

https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-to-use-gua-sha

https://www.allure.com/story/i-tried-gua-sha-to-contour-my-jawline