We’ve used the one for the face. Now, it’s time to explore a version specifically made for the body by The Collective, Dominique Cojuangco-Hearn’s self-care brand
When we think of gua sha, our minds drift to that one facial tool that promises to lift, sculpt, and rejuvenate our skin. But why stop at the face? With all the long days at work, tight shoulders, and post-gym or training aches, it would be a pain—literally—to stop at the cheekbones. This is why The Collective, a self-care brand co-founded by Dominique Cojuangco-Hearn, launched the Body Gua Sha, a tool that extends that same sculpting, relieving, and relaxing care that normal gua shas deliver to our bodies from the neck down. Here, we list why this little tool is worth a place in your self-care routine.
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1. Unwind Those Tense Muscles
Body gua shas aren’t entirely for beauty purposes such as sculpting and toning. They also tackle muscle relief, allowing you to dig deeper where you need it most. After a day of endless meetings, commutes, or intense workouts, tension builds, making shoulders and backs feel like they’ve done overtime, too.
Yet this tool isn’t limited to post-movement aches; it’s a trusty companion for whenever you need it. Dominique Cojuangco-Hearn talks to MEGA about a fond memory from developing the Body Gua Sha.
“It was during my pregnancy. Michael was using our stainless steel gua sha on my shoulders where I was feeling a lot of muscle tension, but we needed a tool that would relieve deeper tension with less effort,” the co-founder shares. This experience inspired a design that’s meant to go deeper, bringing comfort with just a little less work.
2. Sculpt and Define Your Curves
Next, contouring. But this tool does more than just follow your curves; it’s built to work with them. Unlike the classic gua sha, this Body Gua Sha has four unique edges that target specific areas for maximum effect. Dominique reveals the uses for each.
The wave edge is perfect for long strokes on larger and more flat areas of the body, while the wavelet edge is for contouring and sculpting smaller areas that need precise pampering. Use the U-edge to shape and sculpt smaller curved areas, following your natural contours. Lastly, the comb edge is thoughtfully curved to enhance your skin texture by stimulating collagen production.
Despite having four edges, it’s surprisingly handy. “Each tool fits comfortably in the hand, allowing for easy maneuverability and enabling users to apply the right amount of pressure without strain,” Dominique shared. And it’s true—the tool is functional, ergonomic, and made from 100% natural obsidian stone, so it looks great whether you keep it on your bedside table or bathroom vanity. It’s also like having four tools in one.
3. Glow Like Never Before
Another benefit of using a body gua sha is its ability to make you glow. When you glide the comb edge side against your skin, it stimulates circulation and encourages cell renewal, which means fresher, more vibrant skin.
But if you aren’t so keen on delving deep into the science behind it, just think of it as a mini facial for your body. Dominique even likens it to a “spa-like experience within reach,” which does wonders for your physical and mental stressors. “It’s a simple, effective way to take wellness into your own hands,” Dominique added. Who knew that a little tool could do all this?
4. Detox From Within
In the process of massaging those nooks and crannies of your body, you’re also detoxifying your body from within. The tool encourages full-body lymphatic drainage, helping your body get rid of unwanted toxins. After all, our body can sometimes need a little nudge to let go of what it doesn’t need.
But, of course, it pays to know how to use it properly to get maximum results. Dominique recommends using it with a few other products for easier use.
“We recommend using it in the evening after dry brushing or after a warm shower. This helps open your pores, promoting better blood circulation and maximizing the benefits of our Body Gua Sha,” she instructed. She also recommends starting with clean skin and applying a small amount of body oil or moisturizer for the tool to glide on smoothly.
5. Say Bye to Bloating
Lastly, let’s address the elephant in the room—bloating. It’s a common experience for our bodies to feel inflated, and the complaints about discomfort echo around us. Fortunately, this body gua sha can help reduce inflammation and ease that heavy, nagging feeling.
For first-time users, Dominique suggests starting slow. Begin by using it once a week to let your body adjust, then gradually pick up the frequency once you become more comfortable.
But note that incorporating this into your routine isn’t supposed to feel like a chore. As Dominique puts it, “Self-care should be an enjoyable experience.” At its core, the team encourages the usage of the Body Gua Sha to elevate one’s body ritual and make it something that users genuinely look forward to.
Featured Image and Photos by THE COLLECTIVE (via Instagram)
