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Gua sha attracts confident rules that do not hold up. Here are three common myths and the practical questions to bring to your appointment instead.

Gua sha has become popular online, and with popularity come confident rules that are repeated without much scrutiny. If you are thinking of trying it at the Freshwater clinic, it is worth setting a few of those rules aside before your appointment.

Three myths worth questioning

• Darker marks mean more toxins. The colour that appears after scraping should not be read as toxins leaving the body.
• More pain means better results. Discomfort is not a sign that the session is working harder.
• One routine suits everyone. Skin, health history and goals differ, so frequency and pressure should too.

Better questions than an online video

Instead of trying to copy a demonstration you have watched, bring your questions to Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist. Useful ones include:

• Why is this particular area being considered for me?
• How will you adjust pressure if it feels too strong?
• How long should my skin be given to recover before another session?

A careful conversation about whether gua sha suits you is more valuable than a one-size schedule that everyone is supposedly meant to follow, whatever their skin or history.

How the follow-up conversation works

At the next visit, describe any tenderness that lingered, any irritation and any bruising that seemed unusual. Christine can then suggest continuing, changing the technique or trying something else entirely, depending on your response. The choice of tool should suit your circumstances, not a photograph of how skin is supposed to look.

A note on preparation

Wear clothing that allows easy access to the area, and mention any skin products or medicines that make you bruise easily.

If you are on the Northern Beaches and have questions about gua sha that a video could not answer, book a time with Christine at the Freshwater clinic and bring that list with you.