What is Gua Sha?
Gua sha (pronounced gwah-sha, meaning “scraping sha”) is a time-honored healing technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Traditionally used on the body by TCM healers, acupuncturists, and in folk medicine, gua sha was performed with firm, repeated strokes to intentionally raise sha—petechiae, or pinpoint bruising—as a way to release stagnation, move qi (energy), and stimulate circulation for healing.
Over time, this practice has evolved—especially when adapted for the delicate skin of the face. While the core principles of clearing blockages and revitalizing flow remain, facial gua sha is much slower and gentler. It relies on light, rhythmic strokes that soothe the nervous system, support lymphatic drainage, and offer both somatic and skin health benefits—without raising sha.