So, you’ve got your shiny gua sha tool in hand, ready to sculpt your cheekbones and drain away all that puffiness. But wait, you’re not going to scrape it over dry skin now, are you? That’s like sliding on concrete with no roller skates. You need the right oil to make gua sha actually work. Today, we’re talking about the best oils to use with gua sha for maximum results and trust me, the right oil makes all the difference.
Why Oil Matters for Gua Sha
Let’s clear this up first: gua sha without oil is like fries without ketchup, possible, but why would you? The oil creates that smooth glide, reduces tugging, and keeps your skin happy instead of irritated. Plus, the right oil can actually boost the benefits of gua sha, making your skin glow instead of just moving fluid around.
Ever wondered why your face still feels tight after a gua sha session? Chances are, your oil game was weak.
What to Look For in a Gua Sha Oil
Not every oil is a good match. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Lightweight texture – Heavy oils can clog pores and feel greasy.
- Absorption rate – You want it to sink in without vanishing in two seconds.
- Skin type compatibility – Oily skin needs balancing oils, dry skin needs nourishing ones.
- Extra skin benefits – Anti-aging, brightening, calming, pick your flavor.
Pro tip: Always go for natural, cold-pressed oils when possible. Your skin deserves the good stuff.
Best Oils for Gua Sha (By Skin Type & Results)
1. Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is basically the Beyoncé of oils, It is versatile, universally loved, and never out of style. It’s non-comedogenic (aka doesn’t clog pores), balances oil production, and feels lightweight.
- Perfect for: All skin types, especially combo and oily skin
- Benefits: Balances sebum, hydrates without heaviness, calms inflammation
- It feels like a natural extension of the skin, never too oily, never too dry.
2. Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil has a rep for brightening and evening out skin tone. Rich in vitamin A and C, it’s like a mini facial in a bottle. Pair it with gua sha, and you’re basically faking 8 hours of sleep.
- Perfect for: Dull or uneven skin tone, mature skin
- Benefits: Brightens, reduces fine lines, evens pigmentation
3. Argan Oil
Argan oil is like a comfort blanket for dry skin. It’s rich, moisturizing, and loaded with vitamin E. If your skin drinks up moisture like it’s in the Sahara, this one’s for you.
- Perfect for: Dry and sensitive skin
- Benefits: Deep hydration, anti-aging, soothing
- On cold nights, use argan oil with gua sha and wake up with skin that doesn’t crack when you smile.
4. Grapeseed Oil
Some oils feel heavy, but grapeseed oil? It’s featherlight. It helps tighten pores, balance oily skin, and adds a silky finish. IMO, it’s underrated in the gua sha world.
- Perfect for: Oily and acne-prone skin
- Benefits: Antioxidants, lightweight hydration, pore-minimizing
- It feels almost invisible but still leaves your skin glowing, no clogged pores in sight.
5. Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, which makes it deeply nourishing. It has just enough slip for gua sha without feeling like cooking oil (which, FYI, please don’t put on your face).
- Perfect for: Normal to dry skin
- Benefits: Softens skin, reduces puffiness, smooth glide
6. Squalane
Technically not an oil, but close enough. Squalane mimics your skin’s natural oils, absorbs like a dream, and never feels greasy. It’s like the friend who always shows up on time, reliable and drama-free.
- Perfect for: All skin types, especially sensitive
- Benefits: Lightweight hydration, balances oil production, anti-inflammatory
- It’s impossible to mess this one up, great for gua sha beginners.
7. Marula Oil
Want to feel fancy? Marula oil is rich, silky, and loaded with antioxidants. It’s the kind of oil that makes you feel like you should be lounging in a silk robe with a glass of champagne.
- Perfect for: Mature or very dry skin
- Benefits: Anti-aging, deeply nourishing, protective
Oils to Avoid for Gua Sha
Not all oils are your friends. Some will make your gua sha session feel like a greasy mess or cause breakouts. Steer clear of:
- Coconut oil; Comedogenic, clogs pores for most people.
- Olive oil; Too heavy and greasy.
- Mineral oil; Doesn’t offer skin benefits, just sits there like an uninvited guest.
How to Apply Oil for Gua Sha
Okay, so you’ve picked your oil, now what? Here’s the quick routine:
- Start with a clean face (because scraping dirt around? No thanks).
- Warm a few drops of oil between your hands.
- Gently press into your face and neck.
- Grab your gua sha tool and start scraping upward and outward.
- Add more oil if it starts to feel draggy, glide is key.
Tip: Always keep the tool at a 15–30 degree angle to your skin. Straight up and down is a rookie mistake.
My Go-To Combo Oils
Sometimes one oil just doesn’t cut it. Mixing oils can give you the best of both worlds. My fave blends:
- Jojoba + Rosehip – Balanced hydration + brightening.
- Squalane + Argan – Lightweight + nourishing.
- Grapeseed + Marula – Pore-friendly + anti-aging.
Think of it like a skincare cocktail, shake up your own mix depending on what your skin craves.
The Extra Glow Hack
Want to level up your gua sha routine? Apply oil after a hydrating serum. The oil locks in all that goodness and gives your tool a smoother ride. Honestly, it’s like giving your skin a VIP treatment at home.
Reminder
Remember to also clean you gua sha (and Jade roller) tools after each use. Use soap to wash, dry and keep in a clean, dry place. Anything that comes in contact with your skin must be kept clean, you don’t want germs causing reakouts you didn’t pln for.
Brand & Product Suggestions
Here are specific oils/brands you can try. These versions give that “gua sha-worthy slip” and tend to have good formulation and reputation.
- Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil – great overall for hydration + glow.
- Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil – gives brightening + light hydration, good slip.
- The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil – affordable and single-ingredient, good for adding into routine.
- MARA Algae + Moringa Universal Face Oil- nice blend, adds antioxidants, feels luxe.
- Youth To The People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Oil – for anti-aging feel + moisture.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the best oil to use with gua sha? Honestly, it depends on your skin type and what you want out of it. Jojoba and squalane are safe bets for everyone, while rosehip and marula bring that extra glow and anti-aging magic. Just avoid the pore-cloggers, keep it natural, and remember: the oil is half the gua sha experience.
At the end of the day, gua sha is as much about self-care as it is about results. So grab your tool, pick your fave oil, and turn your skincare routine into a little spa moment. Your cheekbones (and your stressed-out self) will thank you 🙂
