P. Sze 
Gua sha is a powerful Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) technique known for its ability to improve circulation and reduce facial puffiness. If you’re dealing with a puffy face and looking for natural ways to address it, gua sha can be an effective solution. This ancient practice uses gentle scraping motions along specific areas of the face to stimulate lymphatic drainage, reduce swelling, and promote a more sculpted appearance. In this article, we’ll explore five gua sha techniques to soothe puffiness quickly, along with expert tips to enhance your results. For a complete guide on how to master gua sha, be sure to check out our gua sha basic guide.
1. Focus on the Jawline for Lymphatic Drainage
One of the key reasons for facial puffiness is fluid retention in the lymphatic system. Gua sha can help stimulate lymphatic drainage, especially along the jawline, where swelling can be more noticeable.
- Start with a clean face and apply a facial oil or serum to create a smooth surface.
- Place the gua sha tool at the center of your chin, with the curved side facing upward.
- Gently scrape along the jawline, moving toward your ear in slow, upward strokes.
- Repeat this motion 5 to 7 times on each side of the face.
This technique encourages lymphatic flow, helping to release trapped fluids and toxins that contribute to puffiness.
Ms. Mai Sogawa, a senior TCM therapist, emphasizes the importance of using the correct angle and pressure while performing gua sha. “In general, use gentle pressure similar to stroking. For the forehead and jawline, use the gentle curve of the gua sha tool, angled slightly against the skin. When working on the cheeks, apply gentle pressure, especially under the cheekbones where waste can accumulate. Around the eyes, the pointiest part of the tool works best, but avoid applying it perpendicularly; always tilt it to use its surface.”
2. Lift the Cheeks to Decrease Swelling
Puffiness in the cheeks can give your face a bloated appearance. Using gua sha on this area helps lift and tone the skin while promoting circulation.
- Begin by applying your favorite facial oil to your cheeks.
- Hold the gua sha tool at the base of your nose, with the flat edge against your skin.
- Gently sweep it across the cheekbone toward your hairline, using light to medium pressure.
- Repeat 5 to 10 times on each side, focusing on lifting the skin in upward motions.
This technique works well for reducing puffiness and defining the cheekbones, giving your face a naturally sculpted look.
3. Soothe Under-Eye Puffiness
The under-eye area is particularly prone to puffiness, often due to lack of sleep or water retention. Gua sha can be a gentle solution to depuff this delicate area.
- Apply a hydrating eye serum or oil to the under-eye area.
- Use the smaller, rounded side of the gua sha tool, holding it flat against the skin.
- Starting from the inner corner of the eye, slowly glide the tool outward toward the temple.
- Be very gentle, as the skin here is thinner and more sensitive. Repeat 5 to 8 times on each side.
This method helps stimulate the lymphatic system under the eyes, reducing puffiness and giving your eyes a more refreshed appearance.
4. Target the Forehead to Relieve Tension
Tension in the forehead can sometimes contribute to facial swelling, particularly around the brow area. Using gua sha on the forehead helps release tightness, which can smooth out puffiness and relax the face.
- Apply oil to your forehead, making sure the skin is well-lubricated.
- Place the gua sha tool at the center of your forehead, just above your eyebrows.
- Gently pull it upward and outward toward the hairline in smooth strokes.
- Repeat this movement across the entire forehead, covering from the middle to the temples, 5 to 7 times on each side.
This forehead technique not only reduces puffiness but also promotes relaxation, which can further improve circulation in the face.
5. Sweep Along the Neck to Boost Circulation
The neck plays an important role in promoting proper lymphatic drainage. To reduce puffiness in the face, it’s crucial to stimulate circulation in the neck area with gua sha.
- Start by applying facial oil along the sides and front of your neck.
- Hold the gua sha tool at the base of your neck, just above the collarbone.
- Gently scrape upward toward your jawline, using the flatter side of the tool.
- Repeat 5 to 7 times on each side.
By moving fluids down and away from the face, this technique helps the lymphatic system clear excess fluid and toxins, contributing to a more contoured and less puffy face.
Ms. Sogawa also recommends incorporating gua sha into your daily routine in a convenient way: “If you take baths, doing gua sha during that time is convenient, or you can incorporate it while watching TV or doing other activities. Alternatively, a light gua sha massage during your morning and evening face wash routine is also effective.” This practical approach ensures you’re maintaining consistency without overstressing the skin.
Tips for Enhancing Your Gua Sha Routine
To get the best results from these gua sha techniques, consider these additional tips:
- Use the right amount of pressure: When targeting puffiness, it’s essential to use light to medium pressure. This ensures that you are stimulating lymphatic drainage without causing irritation.
- Be consistent: Gua sha is most effective when practiced regularly. Try incorporating it into your morning routine to reduce puffiness that tends to build up overnight.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water throughout the day supports your body’s natural ability to flush out toxins and reduce facial swelling.
- Cool your tool: For an extra depuffing effect, store your gua sha tool in the refrigerator. The cool surface will help constrict blood vessels and further reduce swelling when applied to the skin.
By incorporating these five gua sha solutions into your skincare routine, you can effectively reduce facial puffiness and enjoy a more sculpted, refreshed appearance. Whether you’re dealing with puffiness due to stress, fluid retention, or a lack of sleep, gua sha provides a simple, at-home solution to help soothe and tone your face naturally.
