From the Guidelines
Gua sha may offer temporary aesthetic benefits for the face and lymphatic drainage, but scientific evidence supporting long-term results is limited. When performed correctly using a smooth-edged tool (jade, rose quartz, or ceramic) with facial oil, gua sha can temporarily reduce puffiness, improve circulation, and create a more sculpted appearance. For lymphatic drainage benefits, use gentle pressure and stroke in the direction of lymph flow—from the center of the face outward and downward toward lymph nodes. A typical regimen involves 5-10 minutes of treatment 2-3 times weekly. The temporary benefits occur because the scraping motion increases blood circulation, which can reduce fluid retention and temporarily tighten the skin.
While many users report subjective improvements in facial contours and skin appearance, these effects are generally short-lived, lasting hours to a day. The practice is generally safe when done gently, but avoid using on inflamed or broken skin, and discontinue if irritation occurs. Those with bleeding disorders, taking blood thinners, or with certain skin conditions should consult a healthcare provider before trying gua sha. According to the most recent study 1, guidelines recommend referral to a lymphedema specialist for multimodality treatments including manual lymphatic drainage, exercise, and compression therapy, which may be more effective for long-term lymphatic drainage benefits.
Some key points to consider when using gua sha for aesthetic purposes and lymphatic drainage include:
- Using a smooth-edged tool to avoid skin irritation
- Applying gentle pressure to avoid bruising or discomfort
- Stroking in the direction of lymph flow to facilitate drainage
- Avoiding use on inflamed or broken skin
- Discontinuing use if irritation occurs
- Consulting a healthcare provider before trying gua sha, especially for those with bleeding disorders, taking blood thinners, or with certain skin conditions.
It's also important to note that the evidence for gua sha is largely anecdotal, and more research is needed to fully understand its effects on lymphatic drainage and aesthetic benefits, as noted in studies 1. However, based on the available evidence, gua sha may be a useful adjunct to other treatments for temporary aesthetic benefits and lymphatic drainage, but it should not be relied upon as the sole treatment for these purposes.
From the Research
Gua Sha for Aesthetic Purposes and Lymphatic Drainage
- Gua Sha is a traditional East Asian healing technique that involves therapeutic surface frictioning to intentionally raise transitory petechiae and ecchymosis 2.
- A study on the microcirculatory effects of Gua Sha found that it caused a fourfold increase in microcirculation at the treated area, which may play a role in local and distal decrease in myalgia 2.
- Another study found that Gua Sha can up-regulate the innate and adaptive immune functions of the skin and boost the response against intradermal antigens, suggesting its potential as a physical adjuvant for intradermal vaccination 3.
Lymphatic Drainage
- Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a specific type of massage that aims to enhance the filling and emptying of lymph vessels, often recommended for lymphoedema management 4, 5.
- The evidence on the efficacy of MLD is contradictory, and its addition may not always be necessary 5.
- A systematic review of MLD for lymphedema found conflicting findings and methodological issues, highlighting the need for further experimental studies 6.
- Some studies reported positive effects of MLD on volume reduction, quality of life, and symptom-related outcomes, while others found no additional benefit of MLD as a component of complex decongestive therapy 6.