If you’ve been seeing gua sha across beauty content lately, there’s a reason it has stayed relevant. What once felt like a passing trend is now part of many routines, especially for those looking to address puffiness and tired-looking skin without adding more steps.
Gua sha is a traditional East Asian technique that uses a smooth stone tool to massage the face. It is now widely used to support circulation and reduce the appearance of swelling. A short routine in the morning can help the skin look more refreshed, which can be helpful after long days or limited rest.
The Science Behind Gua Sha
Photo: Pure Culture
Under the skin is the lymphatic system, a network that helps remove waste, toxins, and excess fluid from the tissues. Unlike blood circulation, which is powered by the heart, it relies on movement and manual stimulation to keep fluids moving. When this process slows down due to sleep, stress, or lack of movement, fluid can collect in the face, often showing up as puffiness or a heavier appearance in certain areas.
Facial massage using a gua sha tool helps support lymphatic drainage by guiding fluid toward lymph nodes, where it can be processed by the body. This can reduce visible puffiness and leave the skin looking more defined. It also explains why even a short session can make the face look more refreshed.
If you’re curious about trying it for yourself, we found a simple routine featuring two products from beauty brand Pure Culture: the Velvet Veil Moisturizing Matte Facial Oil and the Rose Quartz Phoenix Gua Sha, both designed to support this technique.
Photo: Pure Culture
Step 1: Apply Velvet Veil Moisturizing Matte Facial Oil
Before using a gua sha tool, applying a facial oil helps reduce friction and allows the tool to move smoothly across the skin.
The Velvet Veil Moisturizing Matte Facial Oil contains LycoMega, an antioxidant-rich complex derived from tomato and cranberry seeds. These ingredients are naturally rich in lycopene and omega fatty acids, which help protect the skin from environmental stress while supporting elasticity.
The formula absorbs well and leaves a soft matte finish, creating a smooth surface for the gua sha tool.
Step 2: Use the Rose Quartz Phoenix Gua Sha
Hold the Rose Quartz Phoenix Gua Sha at a slight angle so the flat surface rests against the skin. Apply light pressure and follow slow, upward and outward strokes:
- Start at the neck and glide upward
- Move along the jawline toward the ears
- Glide from the sides of the nose toward the temples
- Use the smaller edge under the eyes with light pressure
Repeat each movement three to five times using steady, controlled strokes.
Photo: Shopee
Yes, Consistency Matters
The effects of gua sha, such as reduced puffiness and a more defined look, can be noticeable after one use. Regular practice may also support circulation and help ease facial tension over time.
It also creates space for a short pause during the day. A few minutes in the morning can shift how the skin looks and how the routine feels overall.
You can check out Pure Culture on Shopee and Lazada.
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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links. The actual color, appearance, size, and shape of the item might be slightly different from the ones shown in the pictures.
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