The Ancient Origins of Gua Sha: History, Meaning & Modern Benefits

A Folk Medicine Rooted in History
Gua Sha has its origins in Traditional Chinese Medicine and dates back thousands of years. It was originally practiced as a folk remedy across East Asia to prevent illness, release stagnation, and restore balance in the body.
Practitioners used smooth tools made of bone, jade, or even coins to apply firm, sweeping motions on the skin. This technique was believed to release blocked energy and improve circulation. The appearance of redness or “sha” after treatment was considered a sign that stagnation had been released.
Why Gua Sha Means “Scrape Sand”
The name Gua Sha breaks down into two parts. “Gua” means to scrape and “Sha” refers to the pinkish spots that appear on the skin after treatment. These marks were seen as evidence that toxins and stagnation were being drawn out of the body.
From Ancient Therapy to Modern Ritual
While originally a full-body healing therapy, Gua Sha has evolved into a gentler practice that is now widely used for facial care. It was introduced into modern beauty and wellness by holistic practitioners who highlighted its benefits for circulation, lymphatic flow, and anti-aging.
Today, facial Gua Sha is valued as much for its therapeutic benefits as for the calming ritual it brings to self-care routines.
Why Gua Sha Works
The power of Gua Sha lies in circulation. By using intentional strokes, it helps increase blood flow, reduce tension in the muscles, and encourage the body’s natural detox process. The technique also supports lymphatic drainage, helping to reduce puffiness and bring clarity to the skin.
Choosing the Right Tool
The tool you use is essential to the experience. At Inner Beauty Shop, we curate tools that stay true to the practice’s origins while being designed for modern rituals.
Pure Craftsmanship, Powerful Results
Most gua sha tools are chemically treated and dyed for faster production and a vibrant appearance, which compromises quality and can leave behind residues. Our tools are ethically sourced, hand-carved, and sanded to ensure purity and premium craftsmanship without chemical interference.
- White Jade Gua Sha Tool- Known for its cooling and balancing properties, jade is a timeless stone that enhances circulation and helps sculpt and lift.
- Other carefully selected Gua Sha tools - Each stone offers unique properties, so you can choose one that resonates with your energy and skincare goals.
Pairing your tool with a nourishing facial oil such as our N°1 Squalane Oil allows for smooth gliding and supports deeper benefits during your ritual.
Gua Sha as a Daily Ritual
Gua Sha is more than a beauty technique. It is a practice rooted in history, energy, and balance that connects us to centuries of wisdom. By incorporating Gua Sha into your skincare routine, you are supporting circulation, easing tension, and encouraging your skin’s natural glow.
With every stroke, you honour tradition while creating space for modern self-care. Read full article here.