P. Sze 
Gua sha is a powerful technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, renowned for its ability to rejuvenate the skin and improve circulation. If you’re struggling with puffy eyes, gua sha offers an effective, natural solution to help you achieve a refreshed appearance. In this guide, we’ll explore the top five ways to depuff eyes using gua sha, empowering you to master this technique like a pro. For a comprehensive understanding of gua sha, check out our basic guide for essential health hacks.
1. Choose the Right Gua Sha Tool
Selecting the right gua sha tool is essential for effectively depuffing the delicate area around your eyes. Opt for a smaller tool with a smooth, curved edge that can easily fit the contours of your eye area. Materials like jade, rose quartz, or amethyst are ideal because they stay cool, which helps reduce puffiness. The cooling effect of these stones can also help tighten the skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines.
Key Tips:
- Use a tool that feels comfortable and is easy to maneuver.
- Ensure the tool has a smooth surface to prevent irritation.
- Keep your gua sha tool in the fridge for an added cooling effect.
“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
2. Prep Your Skin with a Nourishing Oil
Before starting your gua sha routine, it’s important to prep the skin around your eyes. Apply a few drops of a nourishing facial oil or serum to create a smooth surface for the tool to glide on. This step not only helps to prevent tugging on the skin but also ensures that the tool moves easily, allowing you to achieve the best results. Oils rich in antioxidants, such as argan oil or rosehip oil, are particularly beneficial as they help to soothe and protect the delicate under-eye area.
Key Tips:
- Gently pat the oil or serum under your eyes, avoiding excessive pressure.
- Choose oils that are lightweight and absorb quickly.
- Reapply oil as needed to maintain a smooth surface during the massage.
3. Master the Proper Gua Sha Technique
The key to effectively depuffing your eyes with gua sha lies in the technique. Start by placing the gua sha tool at the inner corner of your eye, just above the bridge of your nose. Using light pressure, gently sweep the tool outward, following the contour of your under-eye area. Repeat this motion 5-10 times on each side to stimulate lymphatic drainage, which helps reduce puffiness and improve circulation.
Key Tips:
- Use gentle, outward strokes to avoid pulling the skin downward.
- Maintain a consistent, light pressure to encourage lymphatic flow.
- Work slowly and deliberately, focusing on the quality of each stroke.
4. Don’t Forget Above the Eyes
While it’s common to focus on the under-eye area, the area above your eyes can also benefit from gua sha. Gently glide the tool along your brow bone, starting from the inner corner of your eye and moving toward the outer edge. This technique helps to relieve tension and reduce puffiness above the eyes, giving your entire eye area a more refreshed appearance.
Key Tips:
- Use gentle pressure to avoid any discomfort around the brow area.
- Focus on smooth, even strokes to promote circulation.
- Take your time to ensure thorough coverage along the brow bone.
“For the muscles around the eyes, nasolabial folds, and the masseter muscles, use the gua sha in small, vibrating motions to release tension, which can help improve wrinkles and sagging.” — Ms. Mai Sogawa, Senior TCM Therapist
5. Practice Consistency and Patience
Consistency is key when using gua sha to depuff your eyes. While you might notice some immediate results, the best outcomes are achieved with regular practice. Incorporate gua sha into your daily skincare routine, ideally in the morning when puffiness tends to be most pronounced. Over time, you’ll likely see a reduction in puffiness and an overall improvement in the appearance of your under-eye area.
Key Tips:
- Aim to perform gua sha at least 3-4 times per week for optimal results.
- Track your progress by taking before-and-after photos.
- Combine gua sha with other healthy habits, such as staying hydrated and getting enough sleep, to maximize benefits.
By following these five expert tips, you can master the art of using gua sha to depuff your eyes like a pro. Whether you’re dealing with occasional puffiness or more persistent under-eye bags, these techniques offer a natural and effective solution for achieving a brighter, more refreshed appearance.
