You’ve probably seen gua sha stones trending on Instagram, TikTok, and beauty blogs. The promise sounds almost too good to be true—simply running a stone over your face to lift cheekbones, smooth fine lines, and de-puff under eyes. But is gua sha just another passing beauty trend, or is it a skincare technique worth adding to your routine?
The truth: gua sha has been practiced for centuries. It originates from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where the skin was gently scraped with a smooth tool—often made of stone, antler, buffalo horn, or even a coin. The technique encouraged circulation and healing through redness (known as sha). Traditionally used on the body, gua sha is now most popular for facial and neck massage.
In this guide, we answer your top questions about gua sha tools, their benefits, and how to use them correctly for the best results.
What Is a Gua Sha Stone?
A Gua Sha stone is a skincare tool used to:
- Relieve facial muscle tension
- Sculpt and lift skin
- Increase blood flow and circulation
Traditionally made from jade or rose quartz, gua sha stones now also come in other materials, including plastic. They’re available in different shapes, but most have a tapered edge for precision work around the eyes and nose.
Gua Sha vs. Jade Roller: What’s the Difference?
Both gua sha tools and jade rollers come from Chinese beauty traditions and help reduce tension while promoting a youthful complexion. The difference is in the movement:
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Jade rollers are rolled gently over the face, often chilled to de-puff under eyes and stimulate circulation.
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Gua sha stones are “scraped” or swept across the skin using a specific technique, which can provide deeper sculpting and lifting effects.
Benefits of Gua Sha
When done correctly, gua sha may:
- Give cheekbones and jawlines a more defined, lifted appearance
- Reduce puffiness and under-eye bags
- Release jaw tension and ease tight facial muscles
- Promote Lymphatic drainage, helping remove excess fluid and toxins
- Support healthy circulation for a brighter, more radiant complexion
Some people even find gua sha helps relieve TMJ symptoms or acts as a natural alternative to more invasive treatments by softening expression lines. While results are typically subtle and temporary, many users notice an immediate improvement in their skin’s tone and shape.
Does Gua Sha Really Work?
While large-scale clinical studies are limited, centuries of use and countless personal testimonials speak to gua sha’s benefits. Results vary by individual and depend on proper technique.
(Image credit: Huda Beauty)
How do I Use a Gua Sha Stone?
Gua sha technique is extremely important to achieving the desired results. It seems simple enough, but you must achieve the proper movement, angle, and pressure to be effective. Incorrect use can, at the least, do nothing, but can at the most cause internal damage or bruising.
For optimal results, you should take a gua sha 101 class to understand the proper technique. Here are some good rules of thumb:
- Keep the stone almost parallel to your face
- Apply even pressure that’s not too hard
- Apply a serum or moisturizer before to reduce friction
Which Gua Sha Stones are Best?
Most experts recommend finding one made of pure jade or rose quartz. Some people experience irritation from the synthetic plastic that cheaper gua sha stones are made of. The jade and quartz stones also hold cold or heat better,
Who Should Avoid Gua Sha?
If you suffer from active acne, rosacea, eczema, or any kind of skin irritation, you should not proceed with scrapping therapy. Consult with your licensed dermatologist before trying at home. If you’re pregnant, consult with your doctor.
Bottom Line
Gua sha isn’t just a fleeting beauty trend—it’s a time-tested self-care ritual that can help sculpt, refresh, and revitalize your skin when done correctly. With the right tool and technique, you can enjoy a relaxing facial massage and visible improvements from the comfort of home.