by Amber Boone, Holistic Aesthetician & Founder of Skin Soul Rituals

As an aesthetician, one of the most common questions I hear about gua sha is:

“How often should I actually be doing this to see results?”

And the honest answer is refreshing, you don’t need to do gua sha every single day for it to work. Consistency matters but pressure and intention also play a role in getting results.

When gua sha is done correctly, it supports lymphatic flow, releases facial tension, and improves circulation. All of which contribute to a more sculpted, lifted, and radiant appearance over time.

Let’s break down what works.

How Gua Sha Works (Why Frequency Matters)

Gua sha isn’t about forcing change in the face. It’s a gentle approach and works by:

Encouraging lymphatic drainage
Relaxing overworked facial muscles
Supporting circulation and glow
Helping fluid move where it naturally wants to go

Because these systems respond best to gentle, repeated signals, gua sha delivers results through regular practice, not intensity.

How Often Should You Do Gua Sha?

The sweet spot for visible results:

By practicing 3-5x per week you’ll see visible changes to your face.

This frequency:

Keeps lymph moving
Prevents fluid buildup
Allows facial muscles to soften and rebalance
Avoids irritation or over-stimulation

For most people, this is where results start to build to feel noticeable and sustainable. It becomes a part of your daily skincare routine that you really enjoy.

Can You Do Gua Sha Every Day?

Yes, absolutely if your using the right technique.

Daily gua sha works well if:

You’re using very light pressure
You’re moving slowly
You’re using enough face oil for slip

This is especially helpful if you experience:

Morning puffiness, it’s great for de-puffing the face and underneath the eyes.
Jaw or neck tension, this works great to release tightness and tension
Sinus congestion

That said, daily gua sha isn’t required to see results. Many people see beautiful changes with just a few intentional sessions per week.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Most people notice:

Reduced puffiness right away with best results being in 1–2 weeks
Improved glow immediately as it works on creating improved circulation with best results in 2–3 weeks
Subtle sculpting and definition is more of a long game approach so it takes a little longer and typically can see results within 4–6 weeks

The biggest changes come from cumulative practice, not chasing instant results.

Think of gua sha like yoga for your face, the benefits build quietly over time.

Signs You’re Doing Gua Sha Too Often (or Too Hard)

More isn’t always better.

If you notice:

Redness that lingers
Tenderness or irritation
Breakouts from friction
Feeling rushed or stressed during practice

That’s your cue to slow down, take a breath and lighten your pressure.

Gua sha should feel calming, not aggressive. It’s a slow, feel good practice.

Morning vs Evening: Does Timing Affect Frequency?

Yes, timing can help you use gua sha more effectively.

Morning gua sha best for:

Reducing puffiness
Boosting circulation
Great for lighter, shorter sessions

Evening gua sha best for:

Releasing tension
Supporting relaxation
Ideal for deeper muscle release

Many people find:

For Morning or Evening I would do 5–10 minutes 3-5x week. The best time is when you will do it so pick your favorite and stick to a routine.

You don’t necessarily need long sessions, you need consistent ones.

Why Face Oil Makes a Difference

Proper slip is essential. When you find the right facial oil it all comes together. If you want to learn more about the best oil to use for gua sha. Read this blog next: Best Facial Oil for Gua Sha

Using a nourishing face oil:

Prevents tugging
Protects the skin barrier
Allows the tool to glide smoothly
Makes your ritual practice more enjoyable

This is why gua sha works best as part of a complete ritual practice, not just a stone on dry skin.

A Simple Weekly Gua Sha Schedule

If you want an easy rhythm to follow, try this:

3 evenings ( Monday-Wednesday-Friday) per week: full 5–10 minute ritual
Optional mornings: quick de-puffing as needed

This balance delivers visible results without feeling overwhelming. It’s easy to make a routine.

Why Consistency Beats Perfection

The biggest mistake people make with gua sha isn’t technique, it’s inconsistency.

You don’t need:

Perfect strokes, you will get better as you go
Long routines, make the most of 3 minutes if that’s all you have
Daily commitment, make this a non-negotiable in your self-care routine

You need a routine that feels good enough to return to again and again.

That’s where results come from.

Supporting Results with the Right Tools

Using a well-designed gua sha stone and a supportive face oil makes consistency easier, especially if you’re working with mature or sensitive skin.

The Glow & Lift Kit was created to support gentle, effective gua sha rituals that fit into real life so results can build naturally over time.

Explore the Glow & Lift Kit to support your gua sha practice with intention and ease.