7 Common Mistakes You May be Making While Using a Gua Sha Stone

7 Common Mistakes You May be Making While Using a Gua Sha Stone

Gua sha is an ancient Chinese healing technique that involves scraping a smooth tool, such as Jade or Rose Quartz Stone, over the skin to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation. While gua sha has gained popularity in recent years as a skincare tool, many people may be making common mistakes that can impact the effectiveness and safety of the practice. In this blog, we will discuss seven common mistakes to avoid when using a Gua Sha Stone to help you get the most out of your skincare routine.

1.  Pressing too hard: 

Gua Sha should not be painful, so avoid applying too much pressure on your skin. Light to medium pressure is usually enough to get the desired effect. Pressing too hard can cause pain, discomfort, or even injury to the skin. It is important to use light to medium pressure when using a Gua Sha tool and to let the tool glide smoothly over the skin.

2. Using the wrong angle: 

Hold the Gua Sha at a 15- to 45-degree angle to your skin, and make sure to use the flat side of the tool, not the edge. Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing technique that involves using a flat tool, often made of stone, to scrape the skin in a particular direction to promote blood circulation and alleviate muscle tension.

Jade Gua Sha

3. Not using enough oil: 

Always use a generous amount of oil or any hydrating serum like the Beauty Boost Serum on your skin before using the Gua Sha Stone. This helps the stone glide smoothly and prevents pulling or tugging on your skin. When performing gua sha, it's essential to use enough oil or lubricant to prevent excessive friction and irritation on the skin. Without enough oil, the gua sha stone may not glide smoothly over the skin and could potentially cause discomfort, redness, or even injury.


Using a good quality oil or natural face serum can also enhance the benefits of gua sha, as it allows the stone to penetrate deeper into the muscles and promote better circulation. It's recommended to use a natural oil, such as marula oil, and moringa oil, or a natural face serum such as niacinamide serum as they are gentle on the skin and have nourishing properties.

4. Going too fast: 

Slow and steady movements are key when using a Gua Sha. Rushing can cause irritation or even bruising on your skin. When performing gua sha, it's important to avoid going too fast as this can reduce the effectiveness of the technique and potentially cause discomfort or injury.


Gua Sha works by using slow and steady pressure to scrape the skin in a particular direction, which helps to promote circulation and alleviate tension. Going too fast can cause the gua sha tool to skip over the skin or apply uneven pressure, which can be less effective in treating the targeted muscles and tissues.

5. Using the wrong technique:

Gua sha should be done in upward and outward strokes, not back and forth. Start from the center of your face and work your way outwards. Using the wrong technique when using Gua Sha can be ineffective and potentially harmful. Gua sha involves using a flat tool, often made of stone, to scrape the skin in a particular direction to promote blood circulation and alleviate muscle tension.

6. Forgetting to Clean your tool: 

Forgetting to clean your gua sha stone tool can lead to hygiene and health issues. It is important to regularly clean your gua sha after each use to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and germs that can cause infections and other skin problems. To clean your gua sha stone, you can use mild soap or a solution of warm water and vinegar. Rinse thoroughly and dry it with a clean cloth before storing it. It is also recommended to disinfect your gua sha tool regularly using rubbing alcohol or other disinfectants. By maintaining the cleanliness of your gua sha, you can ensure the safety and effectiveness of your gua sha practice.

7. Using the wrong type of gua sha tool: 

There are different types of gua sha stones, each with its own purpose. Make sure to choose the right one for your skin type and concern. Using the wrong type of gua sha tool can result in ineffective or even harmful results. There are different types of gua sha tools available in the market, including jade, rose quartz, stainless steel, and plastic. Each material has its own unique properties and benefits but Avam Essential’s Gua Sha Stone would be the right choice for your skin type, condition, and personal preference.


Using a Gua Sha Stone can be a beneficial addition to your skincare routine, but it's important to avoid common mistakes to ensure the best results. By avoiding these mistakes and following proper guidelines, you can safely and effectively incorporate gua sha into your skincare regime to achieve a more youthful, glowing complexion. Remember to consult with a skincare professional if you have any concerns or questions about using a gua sha stone.

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