Gua sha might sound like the newest trend, but it originated as a treatment in ancient Chinese medicine. And for good reason; researchers have linked regular gua sha facial massage to numerous health benefits like reduced inflammation and decreased muscle pain.

Ready to try it yourself at home? Always opt for safety first and begin with just one treatment a week using a facial oil your facial skin tolerates well, like jojoba for dry skin or aloe vera for sensitive skin. You’ll use three to ten strokes per area, stroking your gua sha tool upward beginning with your neck, moving to outward strokes on your jawline and cheekbone, then applying light, outward pressure below the eye and across the brow bone. Finish by sweeping the tool upward from your eyebrows, then wash the tool with soapy water.