“Gua” means “scrape”, “Sha” refers to the sandy looking redness that appears on the skin after the scraping.
Gua Sha can be performed for numerous health related issues but at our clinic, we also incorporate it as a technique for facial rejuvenation. The premise of the Gua Sha is to promote blood circulation and remove blood stagnation. The appearance of the temporary redness is the process of the body eliminating toxins.
Gua Sha has been used in China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and other parts of Asia for many centuries. Gua Sha is different than actual massage due to the massage therapist using a tool instead of the therapist in a traditional massage using their hands. Today’s tools are designed with a smooth edge and rough edge made of stone or plastic resin. Even though the term “scrape” is used, Gua Sha is soothing. The Gua Sha facelift is actually gentle and relaxing. The redness which appears usually disappears in a day or two. Some clients do not experience much redness at all especially when performed by a therapist who has been trained in this specific technique.