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

If you’re new to gua sha and wondering whether it actually works or maybe how to do it to see results, you’re not alone.

Gua sha has exploded in popularity over the last few years and some may believe it’s just a trend but as a licensed aesthetician with over a decade of experience I can confidently say, it works!

When done correctly, gua sha can lift, sculpt, de-puff, and support healthy skin aging, it requires a few things to get started, the right tools, technique and consistency are key to getting results. But don’t worry we’ll go over everything you need and if you would like further guidance, sign up for my Gua Sha Foundations video series. It will teach you a step-by-step guided gua sha routine.

In this beginner’s guide, you’ll learn:

What gua sha actually does
How to start safely and effectively
Common mistakes beginners make
How to see visible results faster

What Is Gua Sha?

Gua sha is a traditional East Asian healing technique that involves gently gliding a smooth stone across the skin to stimulate circulation, support lymphatic drainage, and release facial tension.

Originally used on the body, facial gua sha is a refined, gentle version designed to:

Reduce puffiness
Improve circulation
Support collagen production
Sculpt facial contours
Relax tight facial muscles

Unlike quick fixes, gua sha works with your skin, not against it.

Does Gua Sha Really Work?

Yes, when done correctly and consistently you can see and feel great results.

Gua sha works by:

Encouraging lymphatic drainage (which reduces puffiness)
Increasing blood flow (which supports glow and vitality)
Releasing muscle tension (which softens lines caused by facial holding patterns)

Many people don’t see results because they:

Use too much pressure
Skip lymphatic preparation
Use poor-quality tools
Don’t follow a consistent routine

When gua sha is approached as a ritual, not a trend, results will follow.

What You Need to Start Gua Sha (Beginner Essentials)

Before you begin, gather these essentials:

1. A High-Quality Gua Sha Stone

Not all stones are created equal. A well-shaped, smooth stone makes a huge difference in results and comfort.

Look for:

Smooth edges (no sharp corners)
Natural stone (each piece will vary slightly)
Shapes that fit the jawline, cheekbones, and neck (bonus if it has a perforated edge side)

2. A Facial Oil or Serum

Never perform gua sha on dry skin. This can cause irritation and tugging neither feel good or are good for the skin.

A nourishing oil helps:

Protect your skin barrier
Improves gua sha glide
Enhance overall results

3. Clean Skin

Always start with freshly cleansed face and neck to avoid pushing impurities deeper into the pores.

How to Do Gua Sha for Beginners (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prep the Lymphatic System

This step is often skipped, but it’s essential. Start by opening up the lymphatic drainage points, righat above your collar bone. Use the pads of your fingertips and lightly tap for 10-15 seconds. You lightly tap all across the face to increase circulation and prep for gua sha.

Start with light strokes at the neck and collarbone to encourage lymphatic flow. This creates a pathway for fluid to drain properly. Be gentle when working with the neck and face, with light strokes down the neck. Lymphatic drainage does not need heavy pressure, the pressure is light to move lymph.

Step 2: Apply Facial Oil

Use enough oil so the stone glides effortlessly across the skin. Depending on your oil, 2-3 drops is typically enough. You don’t want your stone to drag or tug at the skin.

Step 3: Hold the Stone at a Low Angle

Keep the gua sha tool nearly flat against the skin (about 15 degrees). More pressure does not mean better results. Light pressure is key to lymphatic flow.

Step 4: Work in Upward and Outward Motions

Move slowly and intentionally:

Neck → Jawline → Cheeks → Under-eyes → Forehead
Always work outward toward the ears or downward toward lymphatic drainage points

Step 5: Keep It Short and Consistent

5-10 minutes a day is plenty of time when done correctly. 3-5 passes per section is ideal as well as making sure your getting in 3-5x per week for results.

Common Gua Sha Mistakes Beginners Make

If you’re not seeing results, check for these common issues:

Using too much pressure
Skipping the neck and lymphatic prep
Using a low-quality or poorly shaped stone
Practicing inconsistently
Expecting instant results

Gua sha is cumulative and your results will improve with time. You’ll notice de-puffing immediately but sculpting and lifting take some consistency and time.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Most beginners notice:

Reduced puffiness immediately after use
Improved glow within 1–2 weeks
More sculpted contours after 3–4 weeks of consistent practice

Like any holistic ritual, gua sha works best when practiced regularly.

How to Get Better Results Faster

To maximize your results:

Pair gua sha with a nourishing facial oil
Follow a structured routine (Gua Sha Foundations here)
Use a stone designed specifically for gua sha
Stay consistent, even 3–5 minutes matters

This is why curated kits often outperform random tools.

A Simple Way to Get Started

If you’re new to gua sha and want a guided, beginner-friendly setup, a ritual kit that includes:

A properly shaped gua sha stone
A barrier-supporting facial oil
Step-by-step guidance

The Glow & Sculpt Ritual Kit can remove the guesswork and help you see results faster.

Final Thoughts: Gua Sha Is a Practice, Not a Trend

Gua sha isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.

When practiced intentionally, it becomes more than skincare.

It’s a ritual that supports your skin, nervous system, and confidence.

Start slow. Stay consistent. Trust the process.

Gua Sha for Beginners: How to Start & See Results