If you've been scrolling through skincare videos lately, chances are you've seen someone gliding a smooth jade or rose quartz stone across their face that's Gua Sha, and it's quickly become one of the most requested treatments here at Cholly's Thai Massage & Therapy in Inverness. But beyond the trend, what is Gua Sha actually …
If you’ve been scrolling through skincare videos lately, chances are you’ve seen someone gliding a smooth jade or rose quartz stone across their face that’s Gua Sha, and it’s quickly become one of the most requested treatments here at Cholly’s Thai Massage & Therapy in Inverness. But beyond the trend, what is Gua Sha actually doing for your skin, and is it the right treatment for you?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Gua Sha Facial Massage?
Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese therapy that’s been practiced for centuries, originally used on the body to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. The facial version is a gentler adaptation: a therapist uses a smooth-edged jade or rose quartz tool to glide and gently scrape along the contours of your face and neck.
Unlike body Gua Sha, which can leave temporary redness or marks, facial Gua Sha is light-pressure and relaxing rather than intense. It’s designed to work with your skin’s natural structure, not against it.
If you’re curious about the broader history of the practice, Healthline has a helpful overview of Gua Sha’s origins and traditional use.
Benefits of Gua Sha Facial Treatment
Here’s what regular clients at our Inverness clinic tell us they notice:
Reduced puffiness – especially around the eyes and jawline, thanks to improved lymphatic drainage , better circulation which can give the skin a natural, healthy glow.
Released facial tension– many of us hold stress in our jaw, forehead, and temples without realising it improved skin elasticity with consistent treatments over time a naturally lifted, refreshed appearance without anything invasive.
It’s worth noting that Gua Sha isn’t a substitute for medical or dermatological treatment, and results vary from person to person. A peer-reviewed look at Gua Sha’s effects on circulation and tension is available via the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health if you’d like to dig into the research side.
What Happens During a Gua Sha Session?
If you’ve booked your first Gua Sha Facial Treatment at Cholly’s, here’s roughly what to expect:
1. Welcome and settle in – you’ll be greeted with the same warm hospitality Cholly’s is known for, often with tea before your treatment begins.
2. Cleansing – your skin is prepped so the tool can glide smoothly.
3. Oil or serum application – this helps the stone move gently without dragging on the skin.
4. The Gua Sha technique – your therapist works upward, sweeping strokes along the jaw, cheeks, under-eyes, forehead, and neck.
5. Finishing touches – a calming close to the session, often leaving you with visibly de-puffed, relaxed skin.
A full session typically takes around 75 minutes – plenty of time to properly relax, not just rush through the motions.
Is Facial Gua Sha Painful? Is It Safe?
This is one of the most common questions we get. Facial Gua Sha is not painful, the pressure used on the face is much lighter than body Gua Sha. Most clients describe it as soothing, even meditative.
It’s generally safe for most skin types, though if you have active acne, broken skin, rosacea flare-ups, or recent facial procedures, it’s worth mentioning this when you book so your therapist can adjust the treatment accordingly.
Is Gua Sha Right for You?
Gua Sha facial massage could be a great fit if you:
- Want a non-invasive way to refresh tired, puffy- looking skin
- Carry tension in your jaw, forehead, or temples are looking for a relaxing treatment with visible, immediate results
- Prefer natural techniques over chemical or injectable options
If you’re after deeper muscular relief for the rest of your body too, you might want to pair it with a Traditional Thai Massage or a Back, Neck and Shoulders Massage many clients in Inverness book both in the same visit for a full head-to-toe reset.
Book Your Gua Sha Facial in Inverness
At Cholly’s, every Gua Sha treatment starts with the same care and attention that’s earned us a loyal following across Inverness from locals popping in after work to visitors discovering us on a stopover. The studio is tucked away at 5 Market Brae Steps, a genuinely hidden gem in the heart of the city.
Ready to feel the difference? Book your Gua Sha Facial Treatment online or get in touch with any questions we’re happy to help you choose the right treatment for your skin and stress levels.
FAQ
What is a Gua Sha treatment?
A traditional Chinese facial technique using smooth jade or rose quartz tools to massage the face, boosting circulation and reducing puffiness.
Is Gua Sha treatment invasive or painful?
No – facial Gua Sha is non-invasive and uses light, soothing pressure.
How long does a session take?
Around 75 minutes at Cholly’s, priced at £70.
How often should I get Gua Sha done?
Many clients see the best results with regular sessions, though even a single treatment offers noticeable de-puffing and relaxation.
Book a Consultation
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Cholly's Thai Massage & Therapy is a trusted wellness centre in Inverness, offering authentic Traditional Thai Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Combined Thai and Oil Massage, and Gua Sha Facial Treatment. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping clients relieve stress, ease muscle tension, and improve overall wellbeing through personalised care.
