Body Gua Sha: I Tried It for Two Weeks and the Benefits Were Instant

• Material: Opt for stainless steel, jade, or rose quartz for durability and cooling properties.
• Shape: Tools with varied edges work best for different body areas.
• Grip: Ensure it’s easy to hold and maneuver.

I personally liked the weight of the HeatHealer Gua Sha Lymphatic Drainage Tool. It’s handcrafted from Sibin Bian, a stone historically used in traditional Chinese medicine, and features six custom cut edges, which create a snug contour for various body parts. Another cool thing about this tool is that you can use it hot or cold—all you have to do is run it under water to get it the temperature you want. Using it with a bit of heat has been a game changer when my muscles have felt super tight.

After trying a few different oils, I really liked Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Firmenza Body Oil for its pistachio and salted caramel scent and dewy glow. I would use it if I were going out for the night and wanted an extra scent boost and sexy glowing skin. It also contains guaraná caffeine complex that helps support a healthy lymph system and firmer skin. For a relaxing feel, I preferred Alo Head-To-Toe Ultra Rich Hydrating Glow Oil because it’s formulated with calming turmeric along with vitamin C-rich amla, which is a staple in Ayurvedic healing.

What is the difference between body gua sha and lymphatic drainage?

Both are great for reducing puffiness and moving fluid through the body, however at their core, they are not the same. In particular, Dr. Chiu says gua sha stimulates much more than lymphatic drainage. “When practitioners gua sha the body, we stimulate muscle tissue, fascia and blood circulation, which has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body.”

“Lymphatic drainage is a gentle and rhythmic method perfect for stimulating your lymphatic system, which helps detoxify your body and support your immune health,” Wiggy adds. “On the other hand, gua sha goes a bit deeper—it works on fascia adhesions, releases muscle tension, and boosts blood circulation, all while providing lymphatic benefits too.”

While they are technically different methods, they do work well together, says Martinez. “Gua sha is a great tool to help facilitate lymphatic drainage.” Gua sha is included as a modality at Martinez’s spa during lymphatic facials and body massages because it helps push fluid through drainage pathways.

My review on body gua sha.

After trying a slew of different body gua sha tools, I will definitely be adding it to my routine. If you already apply body lotion, body gua sha can practically replace this step because your skin is getting moisture from the oil. The muscle-relaxing benefits are just a super nice bonus.

I also found that my skin looks overall healthier. Of course, my body looks rejuvenated right after gua sha because it has a pink and healthy glow, but I also feel less inflamed in general. I’m also someone who doesn’t use body lotion, so my dry winter skin is thanking me.