Gua Sha Therapy for Face and Body

Serving River Forest • Oak Park • Chicago

Experience the benefits of Gua Sha therapy for the face and body. This holistic technique improves circulation, releases muscle tension, breaks down scar tissue, and enhances skin health while supporting overall wellness. Gua Sha is a natural, non-invasive therapy for both aesthetic and therapeutic results.

What is Gua Sha Therapy?

Gua Sha is a traditional manual therapy in which specially designed tools are gently scraped across the skin to stimulate circulation, release tension, and promote healing. Before treatment, tissues are warmed with lotion or oil, and the scraping is applied in long, smooth strokes.

Different levels of pressure are used depending on the condition and patient tolerance:

Light pressure: Brings nutrient-rich blood to the area and is ideal for patients who prefer gentler treatment.
Medium pressure: The most common, helps reduce muscle tension, scar tissue, and adhesions in superficial muscles.
Deep pressure: Used for intense muscle tension or deep adhesions, always applied with clear communication to ensure safety and comfort.

The scraping separates muscles and fascia, allowing them to lengthen, heal, and return to proper function. Occasionally, small capillaries may break, creating petechiae or mild bruising. This is normal and typically resolves within a few days while the underlying tissues feel more relaxed and restored.

Tools Used in Gua Sha Therapy

Gua Sha tools come in a variety of materials and shapes to suit different areas of the body:

Stone: Jade, quartz, amethyst
Metal: Stainless steel, titanium
Other: Horn, wood

Therapists select tools based on the area being treated and the patient’s needs. Incorporating Gua Sha into manual therapy, such as massage or acupuncture, can help treat conditions like:

Tendinitis
Pulled or strained muscles
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Plantar fasciitis

The scraping reduces scar tissue, improves range of motion, and promotes faster healing.

Benefits of Body Gua Sha

Reduces muscle tension and tightness
Breaks down scar tissue and adhesions
Improves circulation of blood and lymph
Promotes tissue healing and flexibility
Enhances overall relaxation and well-being

After treatment, it is normal to feel mildly fatigued due to increased blood and lymphatic circulation. A cool pack can be applied to areas of mild inflammation if needed.

Facial Gua Sha

Facial Gua Sha uses smooth, handheld tools—often jade—to invigorate the skin, smooth wrinkles, and increase blood flow. It is commonly incorporated into facial acupuncture treatments for wrinkles, sagging, puffiness, and skin conditions such as:

Acne
Rosacea
Melasma
Dark circles

This therapy targets areas prone to sagging, like the neck and jowls, reduces puffiness under the eyes, and smooths deep forehead wrinkles. Increased blood flow detoxifies the skin, moves stagnant blood, and supports overall facial health.

Facial Gua Sha also stimulates acupuncture points on the face, which can benefit internal organ function and treat conditions such as:

TMJ tension
Bell’s Palsy
Rosacea
Melasma

When performed correctly, there is little to no residual redness, and the skin feels refreshed and nourished. Regular use strengthens circulation, smooths wrinkles, and promotes overall skin health.

Note: Facial Gua Sha should only be performed by a licensed acupuncturist to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Why Choose Gua Sha Therapy?

Gua Sha is a versatile, natural therapy that supports both health and beauty. Whether for deep tissue release on the body or facial rejuvenation, it: