Glossary
Gua sha
Scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to work through tight tissue, often used on the face, neck and shoulders.
Gua sha uses a small, smooth-edged tool, typically made of stone, resin or metal, that is pressed against the skin and scraped in short, repeated strokes over a muscle or along the jaw and neck. Some oil or lotion is normally applied first so the tool glides rather than drags. The technique is used both as a broader muscle recovery tool on the shoulders and back, and in a lighter form on the face for a smoother, temporarily less puffy appearance.
The tool's edge and curve are shaped to fit different contours of the body, a flatter edge suits larger muscles while a more curved or notched edge is designed for the jawline, cheekbones and the sides of the neck. Pressure and stroke direction are usually kept consistent and outward or downward along the muscle rather than random, which is part of what distinguishes gua sha from simply rubbing a tool over the skin.
As with cupping, temporary redness or light marking after a session on the body is common and generally fades within a day or two, and lighter pressure is normally used on the face than on larger muscles. Gua sha should be avoided over acne, broken skin, sunburn or a recent injury, and anyone with a skin condition or on blood thinning medication should ask a dermatologist or doctor before making it a regular habit.