P. Sze 
Gua Sha has become a popular method for naturally sculpting the face, promoting a slimmer, more defined appearance. By using specific Gua Sha techniques, you can enhance facial contours, reduce puffiness, and achieve a thinner face without invasive procedures. If you’re looking to refine your facial features, incorporating these seven Gua Sha techniques into your skincare routine can make a noticeable difference. For those new to Gua Sha, check out this basic guide to Gua Sha to get started.
1. Jawline Sculpting Technique
One of the most sought-after effects of Gua Sha is a more defined jawline. To achieve this, start at the center of your chin and glide the Gua Sha tool along your jawline, moving towards your ear. Apply gentle to medium pressure, following the natural curve of your jaw. Repeat this motion five to ten times on each side of your face. This technique is primarily focused on contouring and defining the jawline, helping to reduce puffiness and fluid retention in this area.
How It Works:
- Encourages lymphatic drainage
- Reduces water retention
- Defines jawline contours
2. Cheekbone Lifting Technique
Enhancing your cheekbones can create the illusion of a thinner face. To perform this technique, place the Gua Sha tool at the base of your nose and sweep it upwards along your cheekbone towards your temple. Use light to medium pressure and repeat this movement five to ten times on each side. This upward motion lifts the cheeks and helps to enhance facial definition by sculpting the cheekbones.
How It Works:
- Lifts and sculpts cheekbones
- Promotes better circulation
- Creates a more contoured appearance
3. Forehead Smoothing Technique
A smooth and lifted forehead can contribute to a more youthful and slimmer facial appearance. Begin by placing the Gua Sha tool just above your brow, following the curve of your brow bone, and glide it outward towards your temple. This diagonal stroke—outward and slightly upward—helps to lift the brows, smooth fine lines, and create an elongated appearance. Use medium pressure and repeat this movement five to ten times.
“Gently glide the Gua Sha tool across the forehead and brows. Since there are many acupressure points around the brows, it can be beneficial to apply slight pressure while moving the tool. For the dark circles under the eyes, use gentle acupressure as the skin is delicate, and then glide the Gua Sha from the nose towards the ears or temples, along the cheeks. Improving circulation around the eyes can help reduce puffiness and dark circles.” — Ms. Mai Sogawa, Senior TCM Therapist
How It Works:
- Smooths fine lines and wrinkles
- Lifts the brows
- Contributes to a slimmer, elongated face
4. Neck Sculpting Technique
The neck plays a significant role in the overall appearance of your face. To enhance facial slimming, it’s important to include the neck in your Gua Sha routine. Start at the base of your neck and glide the tool upwards towards your jawline. Apply medium pressure and repeat this movement five to ten times on each side. This technique not only tones the neck muscles but also supports the slimming effect on your face by reducing double chin appearance. It’s perfectly fine to focus on just the front of your neck for this technique, as it targets the lymph nodes and helps reduce puffiness, contributing to a more defined jawline.
How It Works:
- Tones and tightens neck muscles
- Reduces the appearance of a double chin
- Enhances facial contours
5. Eye De-Puffing Technique
Puffy eyes can make your face appear rounder and less defined. The Gua Sha eye de-puffing technique helps reduce swelling and gives your eyes a more lifted look. Start at the inner corner of your under-eye area and gently glide the Gua Sha tool outwards towards your temple, following the curve of the orbital bone. Use light pressure to avoid damaging the delicate skin around your eyes. Repeat five times on each side, especially in the mornings when puffiness is more prominent. For a more comprehensive lifting effect, you can also glide the tool above your eye, just below the eyebrow, moving it outward and slightly upward toward your temple.
How It Works:
- Reduces puffiness and swelling
- Brightens the eye area
- Lifts the brow for a more refreshed appearance
6. Chin Slimming Technique
To achieve a more pointed chin and a slimmer facial profile, focus on the chin area with this technique. Place the Gua Sha tool in the center of your chin and glide it along your jawline towards your ears, similar to the jawline sculpting technique, but with added focus on the under-chin area and reducing a double chin. This technique involves light to medium pressure, especially under the chin where the skin can be more sensitive. It is particularly effective in slimming the chin and lower face, creating a more defined and elongated chin.
“Releasing tension in the facial muscles can help improve wrinkles and sagging. For the muscles around the eyes, nasolabial folds, and the masseter muscles, use the Gua Sha in small, vibrating motions. For the neck, glide the Gua Sha tool downwards towards the collarbone to help drain waste products.” — Ms. Mai Sogawa, Senior TCM Therapist
How It Works:
- Slims the chin and lower face
- Reduces double chin appearance
- Refines and enhances facial contours
7. Full Face Lifting Technique
For overall facial slimming, a full-face lifting technique can be incredibly effective. Starting at the center of your face, glide the Gua Sha tool outward and slightly upward in a diagonal motion, covering your cheeks, jawline, and forehead. Apply gentle to medium pressure and repeat each stroke five times. This comprehensive approach helps to lift the entire face, promoting a slimmer and more sculpted appearance.
How It Works:
- Lifts and tones the entire face
- Enhances overall facial contours
- Promotes a slimmer, more defined appearance
Incorporating these Gua Sha techniques into your daily routine can lead to noticeable changes in your facial structure over time. Consistency is key, so try to perform these techniques regularly to achieve the best results. Remember, Gua Sha not only helps with sculpting but also supports healthy skin by promoting circulation and lymphatic drainage, making it a valuable addition to any skincare regimen.
