Why I Sometimes Don’t Do Gua Sha — And You Probably Shouldn’t Either

I’ve been formulating skincare for over 10 years, and growing up with Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gua Sha has always felt familiar and comforting. It’s a ritual I love — but over time, I’ve realized that there are moments when it’s better to pause.

It’s not that Gua Sha is bad. Rather, our skin isn’t always ready for that kind of stimulation. Some situations can actually make the practice counterproductive. I’ve learned this through a mix of personal experience, reading clinical literature, and insights from my TCM teacher.

Key Situations to Consider

Active Acne – from my experience

Early in my career, I tried Gua Sha on a few inflamed pimples, thinking it might “help clear things out.” Instead, the redness worsened and healing slowed. Inflammation and bacteria can be aggravated by pressure, so it’s best to avoid Gua Sha on active acne.

After Cosmetic Treatments 

Clinical studies show that treatments like lasers, microneedling, or injectables create tiny micro-wounds in the skin. Gua Sha immediately after can increase swelling, bruising, and infection risk. Waiting 1–2 weeks allows your skin to recover before reintroducing manual stimulation.

Sources: American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Guidelines, 2023; Cleveland Clinic Dermatology Insights.

Fragile Skin 

According to traditional Chinese medicine, people with fragile capillaries or “Qi and Blood deficiency” should avoid aggressive stimulation. Scraping can easily cause petechiae or small bruises. Gentle massage using fingers or soft tools is safer and still supports lymphatic flow.

Skincare Advice & Product Guidance

When your skin is ready, a gentle rose oil-based serum can make all the difference. It provides glide for Gua Sha, hydrates the skin, and offers antioxidant benefits. For those looking to support firmness and skin repair, a blue copper peptide product can complement your routine by improving elasticity and strengthening the skin barrier.

The key is to approach Gua Sha as a conversation with your skin: listen, pause when needed, and enhance the ritual with nourishing products that support skin health rather than forcing results.