Gua sha is a manual massage ritual, so the frequency depends on your skin's tolerance and your routine. Many people use it daily in the evening or a few times per week, especially in the morning when the face looks puffy after sleep or a late night. What matters more than frequency is pressure: the tool should glide, not press or drag. Use light pressure and slow strokes along the jawline, cheekbones, forehead and neck, following the contours of the face. A typical session is about five to ten minutes; longer is not necessarily better.
Because the stone is naturally cool, it can feel pleasant on skin that feels tired or warm, but this sensation is not an indication to massage longer. If you are new to gua sha, start with one or two minutes and gradually build up. Avoid using it on the same area for a long time or with heavy pressure, as this can strain the skin. If your skin becomes red, sore or more irritated after use, take a break and reduce the pressure or frequency next time.
You can fit gua sha into either a morning or evening skincare routine. In the morning, a short massage may help reduce temporary puffiness and make the face look fresher. In the evening, it can be a slow, calming step after cleansing, before or after your serum or moisturiser. The tool should always be used on skin that has some slip from oil, serum or cream — never on dry skin.