Beauty School: How to use a Gua Sha for glowing, sculpted skin

Alicia Fairclough OK!'s beauty and wellness editor

By Alicia Fairclough

Alicia Fairclough is OK! Beauty Box's beauty-loving content creator and covers the latest beauty trends and exciting new box launches.

Episode one: Featuring the Glowcore Gua Sha from our Limited Edition Summer Beauty Box.

Looking for an easy way to boost your glow, sculpt your face, and turn your skincare routine into a relaxing ritual? The Glowcore Gua Sha is a summer skincare must–have and it is featured in our Limited Edition Summer Beauty Box.

Whether you’re new to facial tools or already a seasoned skincare enthusiast, this Gua Sha (worth £10.80) is the perfect addition to your routine. Here’s how to use it like a pro, and why we’re obsessed!

What is a Gua Sha?

Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, Gua Sha is a flat, curved tool designed to massage the face, promote circulation, and release tension. With regular use, it can help lift, firm, and contour the skin. No expensive spa trip required! 

Why we love it:

  • Depuffs and defines: Promotes lymphatic drainage and circulation for a lifted, more sculpted look. 

  • Soothes tired muscles: A relaxing end-of-the-day ritual that releases tension (we’re looking at you, jaw clenchers 😉).

  • Enhances product absorption: It helps your skin drink up serums and oils more effectively.

  • Budget-friendly and space-saving: Small but mighty, this little tool fits into your skincare bag and your fridge. 

How to use the Glowcore Gua Sha:

You’ll get the best results when you use your Gua Sha during the “treat” step of your skincare routine (after cleansing and toning, but before moisturiser). 

Step-by-step:

  1. Apply your favourite serum or oil - we love pairing it with the Gruum Solstråler After Sun Face Oil for a silky glide.

  2. Hold the Gua Sha at a 35-40° angle against the skin (no need to be exact!)

  3. Using gentle to medium pressure, glide the tool in upward and outward motions:

  • Start at the centre of your face and move outward across the cheeks.

  • Sweep from your jawline up toward the ear to encourage lymphatic drainage. 

  • Gently smooth along the brow bone and under-eye area. 

  • Finish by working down the neck in long, gentle strokes.

Top tip: Store your Gua Sha in the fridge before use for a cooling, de-puffing boost, especially on hot summer mornings! 💚

When and how often should you use it?

You can use your Gua Sha daily or a few times a week, whatever fits into your routine. Even just 3 to 5 minutes is long enough to see visible benefits over time. 

Your mini at-home facial starts now

Facial massage doesn't have to be complicated or costly. With the Glowcore Gua Sha, you can create a mini facial moment at home that feels as good as it looks.