What Is Gua Sha? Facial and Body Benefits You Should Know
- sarahalemilac
- 23 hours ago
- 2 min read
If you’ve been searching for gua sha facial or wondered if gua sha therapy could help with your tension, glow, or overall wellness—this guide is for you!
What Is Gua Sha?
Gua sha is a traditional healing technique from East Asian medicine that uses a smooth-edged tool—often made of jade, rose quartz, or stainless steel—to gently scrape the skin. The goal is to increase circulation, release tension, and help move lymphatic fluid or “stagnation” from the body’s tissues.
In Chinese medicine, gua sha is used to help restore flow (Qi) and release heat or pathogens trapped in the body. While it has long been practiced on the back, shoulders, and limbs, gua sha facials have recently become popular for their subtle yet powerful cosmetic benefits.
Facial Gua Sha: More Than Just a Trend
Unlike deeper body work, facial gua sha is gentle and relaxing. It focuses on lifting the skin, releasing jaw and forehead tension, and promoting lymphatic drainage.
Benefits of facial gua sha:
Boosts circulation for a natural glow
Reduces puffiness and dark under-eye circles
Softens the appearance of fine lines
Relieves TMJ and sinus pressure
Supports collagen production over time
Facial gua sha is also an excellent complement to acupuncture and other holistic treatments. Many clients describe it as the “ultimate reset button” for their face and nervous system.
Body Gua Sha: Deep Relief Where You Need It Most
If you’ve been dealing with chronic neck and shoulder tension, sluggish immune function, or muscle tightness that just won’t quit, gua sha therapy on the body may offer the relief you’ve been looking for.
Benefits of body gua sha:
Loosens tight fascia and muscles
Encourages lymphatic detox and circulation
Calms inflammation and promotes healing
Supports immune response
Helps reduce headaches, back pain, and fatigue
Depending on your health goals, I may include gua sha as part of your acupuncture session or offer it as a stand-alone add-on treatment.
Looking for Gua Sha Near McLean or Arlington, VA?
If you’re curious about trying gua sha therapy or booking a gua sha facial in the McLean, Arlington or other nearby areas in Northern Virginia, you’re in the right place. My integrative acupuncture practice offers both facial and body gua sha as part of our personalized care plans.
Gua sha can be a beautiful addition to your stress relief, skincare, or pain management routine—and it’s one of my favorite tools to help restore balance, inside and out.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Click [HERE] to book or call the clinic to find out if gua sha is right for you: 703-848-1980
